YOKOSUKA, Japan –
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) arrived Oct. 4 to their new forward-deployed location in Yokosuka, Japan.
Ralph Johnson is a Flight IIA multi-mission destroyer, capable of embarking two MH-60 variant helicopters with air warfare, submarine warfare, and surface warfare capabilities; designed to operate independently or with carrier strike groups, surface action groups, or amphibious ready groups.
"Ralph Johnson and her crew look forward to joining the forward-deployed team in Yokosuka and to building relationships with our allies and partners in the region," said Cmdr. Colin Roberts, commanding officer of USS Ralph Johnson. "It's an honor to join the DESRON 15 team and an honor to know that Ralph Johnson will play a role in ensuring the future of a free and open Indo-Pacific."
The United States values Japan’s long-term hospitality and contributions in hosting U.S. forward-deployed forces. Along with their counterparts in the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, U.S. forces frequently operate together in the Indo-Pacific Region.
"Ralph Johnson comes over as one of the newest and most capable destroyers in the U.S. Navy," said Capt. Chase Sargeant, commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron 15. "The addition of Ralph Johnson demonstrates our unwavering commitment to maintain maritime security in the Indo-Pacific alongside our alliances and partnerships."
Sailors and their family members received training regarding policies in the region, including the current Naval Forces Japan COVID-19 mitigation measures. All service members and their families have been directed to adhere to these preventative measures to ensure the United States Navy is doing its part to stop the spread of the COVID-19 and protect Sailors, their families and the local community.
As the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed fleet, 7th Fleet employs 50 to 70 ships and submarines across the Western Pacific and Indian oceans. U.S. 7th Fleet routinely operates and interacts with 35 maritime nations while conducting missions to preserve and protect a free and open Indo-Pacific region.