The Virginia Class submarine is to stay in the Philippines from Sept. 7 to 12. The submarine is arriving four days after docking of the USS Frank Cable, a Spear class submarine tender, for a similar port call at Subic Bay, which will be in the country until Sept. 15.
U.S. embassy described the port call of USS Hawaii as a " goodwill visit" that highlights the strong historic, community, and military connections between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines.
Philippine Navy spokesman Omar Tonsay echoed U.S. partner, saying, "this is a regular replenishment, rest and recreation for the (American) troops and there is no engagement with the Philippine Navy."
USS Hawaii submarine is capable of hitting targets ashore with its highly-accurate Tomahawk cruise missiles.
This will be the third U.S. submarine which dock at the Subic Bay in the Philippines so far this year. USS North Carolina (SSN 777), also a Virginia-class attack submarine, arrived at Subic Bay on May 13 this year. One month later, the USS Louisville made a port call at the Subic to replenish supplies. (ANT)
Editor: Kunto Wibisono
Copyright © ANTARA 2012
