YOKOSUKA, Japan -- The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Bremerton (SSN 698) arrived at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Dec. 22 for a visit as part of its deployment to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

The visit strengthens the already positive alliance between the U.S. and Japan through the crews' interaction with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. It also demonstrates the U.S. Navy's commitment to regional stability and maritime security in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

"I think it's important for Bremerton to make one last visit to Yokosuka," said Cmdr. Travis Zettel, commanding officer. "The region means a lot to the United States and its Navy."

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

"This will be my fifth time spending Christmas in Yokosuka," said Zettel. "I consider it to be my second home."

With a crew of 154, Bremerton will conduct a multitude of missions and maintain proficiencies in the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

Measuring more than 360 feet long, Bremerton 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 warfare, strike, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.