On January 16, 2024, a group of sailors from the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force embarked on a tour of the USS Jefferson City (SSN 759), a Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine, at the U.S. Naval Base Guam. This visit took place during the Sea Dragon 2024 exercise—a significant multi-lateral anti-submarine warfare exercise designed to foster interoperability and strengthen relationships among nations in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Sea Dragon exercise serves as a platform for participating nations to enhance their anti-submarine warfare capabilities through joint training and collaboration. By conducting these exercises, countries in the Indo-Pacific region can improve their ability to work together effectively in countering potential submarine threats. The ultimate goal is to establish a well-coordinated defense network that ensures regional stability and security.
USS Jefferson City, part of Commander, Submarine Squadron (CSS) 15, is one of several submarines assigned to this squadron. CSS-15 is located at Polaris Point within the U.S. Naval Base Guam complex. This strategic location plays a pivotal role in supporting all submarines deployed to the region. With its robust infrastructure and extensive resources, the base offers essential facilities, such as maintenance and logistical support, enabling submarines like USS Jefferson City to operate efficiently and effectively.
The visit by the Japanese sailors to USS Jefferson City highlights the importance of international cooperation in maintaining regional security. Through exchanges like these, maritime forces from different nations have the opportunity to learn from one another, share best practices, and deepen their understanding of each other’s capabilities. Such interactions contribute to the strengthening of relationships and the enhancement of operational readiness in the Indo-Pacific.
The United States and Japan have a longstanding partnership in ensuring maritime security and stability in the region. Exercises like Sea Dragon provide a valuable platform for both countries to further solidify their collaboration and deepen their mutual trust. As key allies, the United States and Japan regularly engage in joint military exercises, reinforcing their commitment to maintaining peace and security.
In summary, the visit of Japanese sailors to the USS Jefferson City during the Sea Dragon 2024 exercise showcases the collaborative efforts among nations to bolster anti-submarine warfare capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. Such engagements play a vital role in fostering interoperability, strengthening relationships, and ensuring regional stability. The U.S. Naval Base Guam serves as a critical hub for supporting submarines deployed to the area, enabling them to effectively carry out their missions. The enduring partnership between the United States and Japan continues to be a cornerstone in promoting maritime security and cooperation in this strategically significant part of the world.
