US fast-attack submarine in PH for visit

THE USS CHICAGO in a photo released by the US government. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE US EMBASSY

ONE of the most advanced submarines in the world is in the country for a visit as part of its Western Pacific deployment, the US Embassy said in a statement on Tuesday.

USS Chicago (SSN 721) of the Los Angeles class arrived in Subic Bay last Monday.

The US submarine has a crew of 170 sailors and has been conducting several missions to showcase the latest capabilities of the undersea fleet.

Chicago, which is home ported in Guam, is the first fast-attack submarine to be built with a vertical launch system, which allows the Navy to maintain a constant forward presence capable of strategic action.

It measures 360 feet long and weighs more than 7,000 tons when submerged. It is capable of intelligence surveillance, reconnaissance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare and strike.

“It’s an outstanding feeling to see all the hard work the crew invested in maintaining this forward deployed warship rewarded with an outstanding port of call,” Commander Lance Thompson, Chicago’s commanding officer was quoted as saying.

He added that the crew “looks forward “ to experiencing many of the diverse activities the Philippines has to offer.

Logistics Specialist 1st Class Allendale Basa, a native of the Philippines, was excited to visit family members.

“I’m looking forward to spending some quality time with my family in Olongapo City,” Basa was quoted as saying.

The US military has been increasing its presence in Asia Pacific as part of its defense strategy.