BUSAN, Republic of Korea -- The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Key West (SSN 722) arrived at Busan, Republic of Korea (ROK), for a scheduled port visit as part of its deployment to the Indo-Pacific, Oct. 31.
“Pulling into Busan and seeing the reception on the pier is a great visual representation of the strength of the U.S./ROK alliance,” said Cmdr. Jeremy Parm, Key West’s commanding officer. “I’m excited the crew gets to experience this country, and for the work they have done on deployment thus far.”
Key West is one of five submarines forward deployed to the island of Guam and has a crew of approximately 140 officers and enlisted. Los Angeles-class submarines make up the majority of the U.S. Navy’s submarine force with 40 still in service.
For many aboard the submarine, this is their first time visiting Busan.
“I joined the Navy to see the world and serve my country,” said Electronics Technician (Navigation) Seaman Olegario Sanchez. “I’m excited to spend some time in Busan and to experience the local culture!”
Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6,900 tons when submerged, Key West is one of the stealthiest, most technologically advanced submarines of the world. Los Angeles-class submarines support a multitude of missions to include anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, surveillance and reconnaissance, and strike warfare.
Alliances and partnerships are vital to regional stability. Since its establishment in 1953, the U.S./ROK Alliance has proven strong and durable in the face of new global conditions and is among the most interoperable, capable, and dynamic bilateral alliances in the world.
Key West is the third ship to bear the name of the city of Key West. It was built in Newport News, Virginia, launched July 1985 and commissioned September 1987.