SINGAPORE (NNS) -- Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Buffalo (SSN 715) arrived in Singapore July 16 for a port visit as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment.

With a crew of approximately 150 Sailors, Buffalo will conduct a multitude of missions while maintaining proficiency of the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.

"The United States submarine force is a small but vital asset to national security," said Cmdr. Micha Maxwell, Buffalo commanding officer. "Port calls like these help us to demonstrate the capabilities of our submarine force, while simultaneously advancing international relations. I'm elated for our crew to have the opportunity to work with members of the [Republic of Singapore Navy] and to experience some of the amazing sights that Singapore has to offer."

As one of the fastest and stealthiest submarines in the world, Buffalo exhibits the pinnacle of modern undersea warfighting technology. The submarine is capable of forward-deployed operations for extended periods of time, ensuring America's access to the world's maritime trade routes and providing credible defense against hostile maritime forces.

"The crew has worked extremely hard since the start of this deployment," said Master Chief Machinist's Mate David Pojar, chief of the boat. "One of the most exciting things about any deployment is the potential for port visits in foreign nations. This visit to Singapore offers the crew of Buffalo a chance to learn, teach and relax in one of the most beautiful cities in the world."

For some of the crew members, this is their first time visiting Singapore.

"I can't wait to see what Singapore has to offer," said Lt. Nicholas Chase, assistant weapons officer. "I've heard that it is an exciting city with a vibrant culture. Port visits like these are what being in the Navy is all about."

Measuring more than 350 feet long and weighing approximately 7,000 tons when submerged, Buffalo is one of the most advanced submarines in the world. Buffalo is capable of a multitude of missions including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, mine warfare, naval special warfare, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Currently homeported in Pearl Harbor, Buffalo was commissioned in 1983 and completed an inter-fleet transfer to the Pacific in 1984, where it has served ever since.