A US Navy fast-attack submarine arrived in Subic Bay on Tuesday as part of the Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment, the US embassy announced on Thursday, January 7.
The USS Texas is one of the most technologically advanced submarines in the world. In the last 5 months, it is the 3rd known US submarine to make port in the country following USS Chicago in August 2015 and USS Tucson in December 2015.
“Texas conducts a multitude of missions to enhance proficiency of the submarine fleet. It is the second Virginia-class fast-attack submarine commissioned by the US and is operated by some of the Navy’s finest and most well-trained officers and enlisted personnel,” the embassy said in a statement.
“maintaining a forward-deployed nuclear submarine is not an easy task and Subic Bay will allow for some much deserved rest for the crew.” Texas’s chief of the boat said.
Built in 2002, the USS Texas measures 377 feet long and weighs more than 7,800 tons when submerged. It is capable of executing missions like anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, surveillance and reconnaissance.
The Philippine Navy currently has no submarines but is planning to acquire at least 3 units to improve the country’s defense capabilities. -John Esconde
