One of world's most advanced submarines arrives in Manila

USS Chicago attack submarine at periscope depth off Malaysia.

Camille Diola, Philippine Star
4 August 2015

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Chicago (SSN 721) arrived at Subic Bay on Tuesday as part of its deployment in the Western Pacific.
The visit of the Chicago, carrying 170 sailors, to the Philippines is among its many missions to show its latest capabilities.
Chicago is the first fast-attack submarine to be built with a vertical launch system, allows the United States Navy to maintain a constant forward presence.
"It's an outstanding feeling to see al the hard work the crew invested in maintaining this forward deployed warship rewarded with an outstanding port of call," Chicago's commanding officer Cmdr. Lance Thompson said in a statement Wednesday.
Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 7,000 tons when submerged, the Chicago is one of the most advanced submarines in the world.
It is also able to support a numerous missions such as intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare and strike.
Master Chief Machinist's Mate Jamie Manzoeillo, chief of the boat aboard Chicago, said the crew looked forward to visiting "one of the finest ports in the Pacific."
"The months leading up to our departure from Guam the crew worked hard to prepare for this underway and have performed well," Manzoeillo said.
The visit also served as an opportunity for many of the crew members to set foot in the Philippines for the first time.
"I can't wait to breathe some fresh air and enjoy some awesome local food," Fire Control Technician 3rd Class Ethan Suttles said.
To visit family members, meanwhile, is among the things Logistics Specialist 1st Class Allendale Basa, a native of the Philippines, looks forward to.
"I'm looking forward to spending some quality time with my family in Olongapo City," Basa said.
Chicago is home ported in Guam, where it remains in a forward deployed state of readiness.
The U.S. Navy hospital ship USNS Mercy, meanwhile, is set to arrive at Subic Bay this week as part of this year's Pacific Partnership, an annual deployment of forces from the U.S. Pacific Fleet in cooperation with regional governments.