The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Asheville (SSN 758) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka July 24 for a visit as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific.
With a crew of approximately 147, Asheville will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.
“I am very proud of my talented crew aboard Asheville,” said Cmdr. Douglas Bradley, Asheville’s commanding officer. “They have worked extremely hard thus far maintaining maritime security operations in the Western Pacific. It is great to be back in Japan to experience the wonderful culture and to give my crew the rest that they deserve.”
Asheville is the 47th Los Angeles-class nuclear powered fast attack submarine. Some features of Asheville include the submarine advanced combat control system, advanced rapid commercial off-the-shelf insertion sonar system, and superior electronic support measures capability. In addition to these tactical advances, retractable bow planes and a hardened sail provide the capability of operating freely in any of the world’s oceans, including the Arctic Basin.
“The crew has done great things for their country,” said Master Chief Roger Skeens, Asheville’s chief of the boat. “This port visit to Yokosuka will allow us to recharge and continue on with deployment.”
This is Asheville’s second time visiting Yokosuka during the deployment.
“I am excited to pull into Yokosuka again, represent the United States and get the chance to climb Mt. Fuji,” said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Andrew Blalock, Asheville Sailor of the Year.
Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6,900 tons when submerged, Asheville is one of the stealthiest, fast attack submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, naval special warfare involving special operations forces, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.
Asheville is home ported in San Diego, Calif., and is part of Submarine Squadron 11.
[mappress] Press Release, July 26, 2013; Image: US Navy