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U.S. Navy Enhances Submarine Operations in the Indo-Pacific
(Reuters) – The fast attack submarine’s role is continuously evolving, with operations that can change rapidly based on command directives, as articulated by U.S. Navy Commander Jeffrey Corneille during a recent engagement off the coast of Western Australia aboard the USS Minnesota, a nuclear-powered submarine.
“Once my superior gives the order, we are ready to execute,” Corneille remarked, highlighting the urgency and responsiveness required in submarine operations.
Displayed prominently within Minnesota is a letter from the U.S. Secretary of Defense dated 2018, acknowledging the submarine’s significant contributions to anti-submarine warfare and intelligence-gathering efforts in Europe.
Corneille emphasized the strategic importance of instilling hesitation in potential adversaries: “This is not only vital for the United States, but it also benefits all our allies as we work in unison toward this objective.”
The USS Minnesota has recently transitioned its home port from Hawaii to Guam, marking the first forward deployment of a Virginia-class submarine. This strategic move is part of a broader military initiative in the region.
“In times of conflict, Guam will serve as our base for replenishing, repairing, and rearming our vessels,” stated Captain Neil Steinhagen, who oversees Submarine Squadron 15 in Guam. This squadron comprises four Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered attack submarines, in addition to the Minnesota.
As preparations are underway for a significant arrival of U.S. Navy personnel in 2027, there is also an initiative for Australians to join the crew of these U.S.-commanded Virginia submarines, signaling a deepening of partnerships in maritime security.
Steinhagen pointed to the technological advantages afforded by the Virginia-class submarines. He described their “34-year gas tank” that enables them to pursue threats efficiently, contrasting this with Australia’s older diesel-electric submarine fleet, which is designed more for stealth and passive monitoring in critical Indo-Pacific waterways.
As geopolitical tensions rise, the U.S. Navy’s strategic adjustments underscore an enhanced focus on collaborative operations and advanced capabilities in the region, reinforcing commitments with allies to ensure stability and security.
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