USS Ohio Visits Busan

The Ohio-class guided missile submarine USS Ohio (SSGN 726) arrived in Busan, Korea, Oct. 24, for a visit as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific.

With a crew of approximately 160, Ohio will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

“This is a great opportunity for the crew to visit one of our best allies in the region,” said Capt. Brian N. Humm, Ohio’s Blue crew commanding officer. “We are looking forward to new experiences and new friends.”

Ohio is a two-crew submarine, with the Blue crew embarked for this deployment.

“There have been great demands placed on the crew of Ohio during this deployment, and they have responded time and time again with renewed dedication to their submarine and their shipmates,” said Command Master Chief Paul J. Davenport, chief of the boat. “They have worked every day non-stop for two months to position our boat at the ready for any mission, anywhere, at any time.”

For many of the crew members, this is their first time visiting Busan.

“I am very excited about pulling into Busan,” said Electronic Technician 3rd Class (Submarine Service) Tyler Youngquest. “There are so many things I want to do in Busan, like shopping for nice souvenirs for my family, and trying authentic Korean food. Maybe I’ll even get to tour the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).”

“The command team is proud of them for all their hard work,” added Davenport. They deserve much needed rest, and South Korea is a wonderful and exciting country that will provide them with quality rest and relaxation.”

Measuring more than 550 feet long and weighing more than 18,500 tons when submerged, Ohio is one of the largest and mission-capable submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, naval special warfare involving special operations forces, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Ohio features the largest Tomahawk Land Attack Missile inventory of any U.S. Navy warship. Additionally, she can carry more than 65 Special Operations Forces personnel and their equipment, which can be launched from internal lock out chambers or from a dry deck shelter. Ohio features the most up-to-date fire control system and sonar systems in the U.S. Navy’s submarine force which can be used to employ Mark 48 Advanced Capability torpedoes from four torpedo tubes. To enable Ohio’s warfare areas, the ship is outfitted with a sophisticated communications suite, multiple local area networks, and a battle management center for mission planning and execution.

Ohio is homeported in Bangor, Wash.

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Naval Today Staff,October 26, 2012; Image: US Navy