Sailors from the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Preble (DDG 88) and USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) along with the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Pasadena (SSN 752) arrived in Busan, South Korea, May 1, to strengthen partnerships with the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy.

"We welcome the visit of these U.S. Navy ships to the city of Busan," said Cmdr. Lee, Jong-Sik, of the Republic of Korea Fleet Headquarters. "We hope our visiting U.S. Sailors will have the opportunity to experience Korean culture and we look forward to strengthening the alliance and conducting training with our U.S. Navy partners."

While in Busan, Sailors from all three vessels will have the opportunity to conduct community relations engagements in the local Korean community. Fostering enduring relationships through community relations with local citizens, theater security cooperation engagements with the ROK Navy, and regular bilateral training is part of the U.S. Navy's contribution to sustaining a strong alliance between the U.S. and the ROK.

Preble, Fitzgerald, and Pasadena are currently conducting routine patrols throughout the Indo-Asia-Pacific region as part of the U.S. 7th Fleet. As multi-mission platforms, these vessels can carry out independent operations or operate in conjunction with other Navy ships to conduct maritime security operations that promote stability and peace, and develop key partnerships with allies across the region.