CHINHAE, Republic of Korea -- The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770) arrived at U.S. Fleet Activities Chinhae, Oct. 7, for a visit as part of its deployment to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

With a crew of approximately 150, Tucson can conduct a multitude of missions and maintain proficiencies of the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

"The Korean-American relationship is very important and our visit to Chinhae gives us the opportunity to strengthen the outstanding relationship that exists between the U.S. and the Republic of Korea," said Cmdr. Chad Hardt, commanding officer. "My crew and I are looking forward to experiencing the exciting culture of this great Korean city."

Tucson's crew operates with a high state of readiness and is always prepared to tackle any mission that comes their way.

"The performance and work ethic of this crew over the past several months has been nothing less than exceptional," said Master Chief Electronics Technician (Navigation) Juan Gonzalez, chief of the boat. "It is an honor to be a part of the Tucson family. Chinhae is a wonderful city for the crew to spend their well-deserved rest and relaxation."

For many of the crew members, this was their first time visiting the Republic of Korea.

"I am really looking forward to visiting the Republic of Korea for the first time," said Culinary Specialist Seaman Thomas Patras. "This will be the first port call of my career and I am looking forward to experiencing a new and exciting culture."

Measuring more than 360 feet long, Tucson is one of the stealthiest and most advanced submarines in the world. It is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Homeported out of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Tucson is able to operate in all oceans of the world. Tucson is the 59th Los Angeles-class attack submarine and the 20th of the improved Los Angeles-class attack submarines to be built.

Twelve vertical launch tubes for Tomahawk cruise missiles and four torpedo tubes provide Tucson with great offensive capabilities and strategic value. Its stealth, endurance, mobility and responsiveness make Tucson a formidable force in multiple mission roles.