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http://www.csp.navy.mil/releases/release_09048.shtml JS Yaeshio Arrives at Naval Station Pearl Harbor By MC2 (SW/AW/SCW) Ronald Gutridge COMSUBPAC Public Affairs Release Date: 09/17/2009 PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii - Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) submarine, Yaeshio (SS 598) arrived at Naval Station Pearl Harbor to begin several training exercises with the U.S. Navy submarine forces on Thursday September 17. Commissioned March 9, 2006, and based out of Yokosuka, Japan, the newest of the Oyashio class Submarine, Yaeshio, will be conducting both in port and at sea training on undersea tactics and war time strategies. "This is a great opportunity for the crew of Yaeshio to improve their tactical capability and training techniques with U.S. forces," said Commander Takeshi Kawakubo, Commanding Officer. "I think the most important aspect of this evolution is the chance to compare strategic ideas and to strengthen the bond between the U.S. and Japan in an effort to combat terrorism." Yaeshio is scheduled to attend the Naval Submarine Training Center Pacific (NSTCP) and the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) to conduct advanced sonar training and submarine damage control, as well as a series of torpedo and harpoon operations during the visit. "The crew is very excited to be a part of this evolution and to get the opportunity to work with the U.S. Navy," said Master Chief Petty Officer, JMSDF, Ryuichi Eguch, Chief of the Boat. "This is the first time for many of them to deploy to Hawaii and also train with American submariners." Continued joint training operations are essential aspects of maintaining strong relationships and enhancing interoperability with allies in the Pacific. |