An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.


USS Texas Arrives in Busan, Korea for Port Visit

14 July 2011

From Lt. Lara Bollinger, Commander, Submarine Group 7 Public Affairs

The Virginia-class fast attack submarine arrived in Busan July 9 for a port visit.

BUSAN, Republic of Korea (NNS) - Virginia-class fast attack submarine USS Texas (SSN 775) arrived in Busan July 9 for a port visit as part of its deployment to the western Pacific.

With a crew of approximately 140, Texas is only the second Virginia-class submarine to operate in the western Pacific. The only submarine of its class in the region, Texas works to maintain regional security and international relations, and delivers unique capabilities worldwide.

"Our ship's incredible stealth, endurance and war fighting capabilities make Texas the most technologically advanced nuclear powered attack submarine in the world," said Cmdr. Robert A. Roncska, Texas' commanding officer. "I am extremely proud of my crew's performance and we are looking forward to experiencing beautiful South Korea with our close ROK Navy friends."

While discussing the opportunities and sights in Busan, the chief of the boat machinists mate senior chief Matt Harris told his crew, "This port visit will be a great opportunity for you to get some much needed rest and relaxation."

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

"I've been no board for more than three years and this will be my first foreign port," said sonar technician (submarine) 3rd class Russel Myrick. "I'm really looking forward to experiencing the culture and getting some time to relax."

Measuring more than 377 feet long and weighing more than 7800 tons when submerged, Texas showcases advanced technology unique to the Virginia class, making it the quietest attack submarine in the fleet. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare and mine warfare, and shallow water operations.

Built in Norfolk, Va., Texas shifted its home port from Groton, Conn., to Pearl Harbor, Hi. in the Fall 2009. This marks the first western pacific deployment for the submarine.

Guidance-Card-Icon Dept-Exclusive-Card-Icon