FLEET ACTIVITIES YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The Los Angeles class fast-attack submarine USS San Francisco(SSN 711) arrived at Okinawa Naval Base Jan. 6, for a port call as part of a deployment to the Western Pacific.

With a crew of approximately 140, San Francisco will conduct a multitude of missions and showcase the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

"I'm proud to be in command of such an outstanding crew on this very capable warship," said Cmdr. Jeffrey Juergens, San Francisco's commanding officer. "We are privileged to be able to contribute to the readiness of our nation while enhancing theater cooperation in this region."

San Francisco's deployment is part of an on-going rotation of deployed forces to support maritime security operations and operations in international waters around the globe working with other coalition maritime forces.

"The crew has done a great job so far on this deployment," said Senior Chief Machinist's Mate Justin Gruber, San Francisco's chief of the boat.

For many of the crew members, this is their first time visiting Japan.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the Tokyo Tower, having some authentic Japanese food, and experiencing the Japanese culture," said Logistics Specialist Third Class Zach Ingle.

Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6,900 tons when submerged, San Francisco is one of the most covert submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

San Francisco is one of five Los Angeles-class submarines home ported in San Diego, California.