US attack submarine Mississippi stops in Japan during deployment

US Navy attack submarine USS Mississippi (SSN 782) pulled into Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, on Monday, November 6, as US president Donald Trump arrived in Tokio for his first state visit to Japan.

The Virginia-class submarine’s visit is part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment.

“It is great to be back in Yokosuka!” said Cmdr. Eric J. Rosek, commanding officer. “After several months at sea it is always important to be able to reach back to our loved ones. At the same time, the welcoming people of Japan make experiencing their culture a terrific opportunity. About thirty percent of the crew of Mississippi has never travelled outside of the United States. I know they will be impressed by everything Japan has to offer during our stay.”

The 145 officers and crew of Mississippi are excited to be in port after two months at sea. Japan is the first port of call for this deployment.

This is USS Mississippi’s second operational deployment after entering service in June 2012. The Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam-based boat completed her maiden deployment in September last year returning from the Western Pacific.