A US Navy Los Angeles-class attack submarine is set to take part in the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Submarine Competition (SUBCOMP) that is taking place in waters south of Japan between February 17 and 21.
SUBCOMP is designed to evaluate and test Japanese crews across multiple platforms on their ability to conduct various aspects of anti-submarine warfare.
The inclusion of US Navy assets in the exercise mutually benefits US and JMSDF units by enhancing overall anti-submarine warfare (ASW) proficiencies and further strengthening the relationship between the two countries.
In addition to the US submarine, this year’s SUBCOMP will feature two JMSDF submarines, four JMSDF ships, and multiple aircraft. The top performing crew will be recognized with the Japanese Battle Efficiency Award.
“This is the kind of anti-submarine exercise is a way for our submariners to test and assess their tactics, doctrine and ASW education,” said Capt. Jesse Zimbauer, the Submarine Group 7 Deputy Chief Of Staff for Operations. “We’re excited for the opportunity to showcase our skills while working with our Japanese counterparts in an intense and highly effective training environment.”
“We welcome the role of the US Navy submarine in this year’s Submarine Competition,” said CAPT Mitsuru Takada, Deputy Chief Of Staff for Operations, Commander, Fleet Submarine Force, who will be organizing the exercise. “Their participation will considerably increase the efficiency of our anti-submarine efforts in the Indo Pacific.”
Over the next several months, US and JMSDF ASW forces have further training evolutions planned, it was added.
