SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- Submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) arrived at Fleet Activities Sasebo, Japan, for a routine visit as part of its deployment in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, Oct. 10.

The port visit represents an important opportunity to promote stability and security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region, demonstrate commitment to regional partners, and foster growing relationships. The visit is also aimed at building friendship and goodwill between the U.S. Navy and the people of Japan.

"We are excited to have the opportunity to visit Japan and continue building on an alliance that has been ongoing for more than 50 years," said Capt. Drew St. John, Frank Cable's commanding officer. "Our presence as a forward-deployed submarine tender provides vital flexibility to the fleet commanders, extending the range and impact of U.S. naval forces. I hope our visit reinforces to our Japanese friends that we are never far away and always ready to execute our mission."

Sasebo is the ninth port visit for Frank Cable. During its deployment, the crew has visited the Philippines, Diego Garcia, India, United Arab Emirates, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.

In each port, the Sailors participated in community relations projects and enjoyed the local cultures, all to help foster a better understanding between the United States and the people of the countries visited.

"Liberty in any port we visit is an important part of our mission," said Frank Cable Command Master Chief Paul Sweeney. "During this high-profile deployment, the crew has demonstrated that we value maintaining excellent relations with our hosts. We conduct extensive training in the appreciation of cultural differences, socially acceptable behavior within the framework of local society, and personal core values. We expect our Sailors to adhere to the same high standards no matter where they are."

Frank Cable is one of two forward-deployed submarine tenders and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to conduct maintenance and support of deployed U.S. naval force submarines and surface vessels in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.