Latest US attack submarine arrives in Subic Bay

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 7): Latest US attack submarine arrives in Subic Bay
 

The USS Texas (SSN-775), one of the US Navy's latest Virginia-class attack submarines, arrived in Subic Bay Jan. 5 for a visit as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment.

With a crew of approximately 135, the USS Texas can conduct a multitude of missions to enhance proficiency of the submarine fleet.

It is the second Virginia-class fast-attack submarine commissioned by the United States and is operated by some of the US Navy’s finest and most well-trained officers and enlisted personnel.

“Texas sailors are hardworking and downright dedicated,” Master Chief Machinist’s Mate Daniel Kloepfer, USS Texas’s chief-of-the boat, said

“Maintaining a forward-deployed nuclear submarine is not an easy task and Subic Bay will allow for some much deserved rest for the crew,” he added.

For many crew members, this is their first visit to the Philippines.

“I can’t wait to get to the Philippines for the first time,” Electronics Technician 2nd Class Keagan Garber said.

“I’m looking forward to exploring the great outdoors,” he added.

Measuring more than 377 feet long and weighing more than 7,800 tons when submerged, the USS Texas is one of the most advanced submarines in the world.

She is capable of executing a multitude of missions including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare, mine warfare and shallow water operations.

Built in Newport News, Virginia from 2002 – 2004, the USS Texas established its home in Groton Connecticut before transferring to Pearl Harbor in 2009.

The boat is sponsored by former First Lady Laura Bush.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=844267