SUBIC BAY, Philippines (NNS) -- The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770) arrived at Subic Bay Dec. 6, for a visit as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment.
With a crew of approximately 150, Tucson will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.
"USS Tucson will provide unique capabilities in support of the theater commander's strategies during the length of our deployment," said Cmdr. Michael Beckette, the Tucson's commanding officer.
The submarine's crew operates with a high state of readiness and is always prepared to tackle any mission that comes their way.
"The men have worked and trained hard to prepare the ship for deployment and their performance over the past eleven months has been nothing less than exceptional," said Senior Chief Electronics Technician Billy Daly Jr., USS Tucson's chief of the boat. "I am proud to serve with each and every one of these Sailors and to be part of USS Tucson."
For many of the crew members, this was their first time visiting the Philippines.
"I look forward to learning about the customs and traditions of the Philippines," said Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Evan Lusk. "I intend to view local sites and look forward to some well-earned rest and relaxation."
However, some of the Tucson's Filipino-American Sailors had an opportunity to connect with their heritage.
"I am excited to visit my family's home country and share our native heritage with my fellow shipmates," said Seaman Christian Bello.
Measuring more than 360-foot-long, USS Tucson is one of the stealthiest and most advanced submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.
Home-ported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, USS Tucson is able to operate in all oceans of the world. Tucson is the 59th Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine and the 20th of the improved Los Angeles attack submarines to be built.
Twelve vertical launch tubes for Tomahawk cruise missiles and four torpedo tubes provide USS Tucson with great offensive capabilities and strategic value. The submarine's stealth, endurance, mobility and responsiveness make it a formidable force in multiple mission roles.