YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- Virginia-class attack submarine USS Mississippi (SSN 782) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, April 11, for a routine visit as part of its maiden deployment to the Indo-Asia-Pacific.
This visit strengthens the already positive alliance between the U.S. and Japan through the crew's interaction with the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force.
It also demonstrates the U.S. Navy's commitment to regional stability and maritime security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.
"Port visits are ideal to supporting the Sailors and executing our commitment to international relations," said Cmdr. Eric Rozek, USS Mississippi commanding officer. "Yokosuka provides my crew an opportunity to visit Japan as well as reach back to family and friends in the United States."
Although this is Mississippi's second visit to Japan during the current deployment, the officers and crew are excited to be in port and experience the culture after a month at sea. With a dynamic underway schedule, the inport period allows Sailors an opportunity to reset before another underway.
"I'm looking forward to seeing the more historical side of Japan," said Yeoman Seaman Danny Smith. "This is my first deployment, as well as the first time that I've been able to travel outside of the United States. I'd like to go to a baseball game and visit a museum during my off time."
Measuring more than 360 feet long and displacing approximately 7,000 tons when submerged, Mississippi is the fifth ship of the United States Navy to bear the namesake in honor of the Magnolia State. Commissioned June 2, 2012, Mississippi is the eighth ship of the Virginia-class nuclear powered attack submarines.
Mississippi is homeported in Pearl Harbor. It is one of 10 submarines forward deployed and serving at the nation's defense.