Key West Visits Yokosuka During Western Pacific Deployment

By Lt. j.g. David Oh, USS Key West Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Key West (SSN 722) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Aug. 29, for a visit as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific.

"Key West is excited to be here working with our allies to ensure the security and stability of the region. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership in the future," said Cmdr. John Thompson, Key West's commanding officer.

With a crew of approximately 160, Key West will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

"I'm very proud of all Key West's Sailors," said Thompson. "We have invested a significant amount of hard work and energy in preparing the Key West for her first mission since being forward deployed."

Key West is a second-flight Los Angeles-class submarine. Nuclear powered, the ship is able to create an endless supply of power, water and air. It is outfitted with four Mk 67 torpedo tubes and 12 Tomahawk cruise missile vertical launch tubes and is capable of reaching speeds greater than 25 knots and depths of more than 800 feet.

"In the period following the engineered overhaul, the crew of Key West trained hard and diligently prepared their ship for deployment. Now following a successful Western Pacific training deployment, the crew is eager to enjoy a much deserved liberty call in the fabulous city of Yokosuka," said Master Chief Hospital Corpsman Anthony Petrone, chief of boat.

For many of the crew members, this is their first time visiting Japan.

"I'm really excited to visit the Akihabara district and buy some of the newest electronics on the market. I also plan on hiking Mount Fuji and I'm especially eager to get the chance to practice my Japanese," said Information Systems Technician 3rd Class Trey Baker.

Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6,900 tons when submerged, Key West is one of the deadliest submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Forward deployed to Guam, Key West will remain an active participant in patrolling the Pacific and hopes to make numerous port visits to Yokosuka over the next several years.