The nuclear-powered, fast-attack submarine USS San Francisco deployed from Naval Base Point Loma for a six-month mission in the Western Pacific, the Navy announced Saturday.
The San Francisco, one of five Los Angeles-class submarines homeported in San Diego, has a crew of 140.
The deployment is part of the Navy’s on-going rotation of forces to support maritime security in international waters around the globe. During the past few months, the San Francisco has conducted several training exercises off the coast of California.
“The crew has put in a lot of hours training and preparing the ship for this deployment, and we are ready,” said Cmdr. Jeff Juergens, the commanding officer. “We’re very thankful for all the support along the way, especially from our families, and we look forward to successfully completing our mission.”
The submarine was damaged in 2005 when it struck an undersea mountain, injuring 23 crew members, one of whom later died from his injuries. The vessel was repaired and returned to service in 2009.
