US attack submarine USS Key West visits Yokosuka

Authorities

US Navy fast-attack submarine USS Key West (SSN 722) stopped at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, for a port visit on November 21.

The Los Angeles-class submarine is visiting Japan as a part of her Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment.

“I’m incredibly proud of the crew and what they have accomplished over the past couple of months,” said Cmdr. Grady Hill, commanding officer. “Their hard work and preparation for deployment was evident in their flawless execution of complex operations. Now we have a new mission at hand – representing the United States while enjoying the sights and experiences that Japan has to offer.”

“The sailors of this warship have worked very hard this year and we have accomplished a lot,” said Command Master Chief Eric Baker, chief of the boat. “Key West is excited to be back in Japan to enjoy some well-deserved and outstanding liberty.

As a flight 688 submarine, Key West is outfitted with four Mk 67 torpedo tubes and 12 Tomahawk cruise missile vertical launch tubes.

Key West was commissioned Sept. 27, 1980 in Norfolk. It completed a number of successful Eastern Atlantic deployments. In 1996 Key West transited the Panama Canal on the way to its new homeport in Hawaii. In 2012 Key West shifted to its current homeport of Guam.