YOKOSUKA, Japan (Aug. 3, 2026) – Some alliances are built in conference rooms. Others are built over generations. The strength of the U.S. – Japan Alliance is often measured in ships, aircraft, and combined operations. Its foundation is built on something less visible: enduring relationships between people, communities, and leaders.

For nearly 80 years the city of Yokosuka has been a foundational building block of the U.S. Navy’s steadfast relationship with the Japan Self-Defense Force and the government of Japan.

From July 25 to Aug. 1, 2026, the U.S. Navy provided Mayor of Yokosuka Katsuaki KAMIJI a rare opportunity to see the inner workings of the alliance during a trip to Washington D.C. and Hawaii. He was accompanied by Rear Adm. Ian Johnson, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Japan/Navy Region Japan (CNFJ/RJ) and representatives from Commander, Submarine Group 7 and Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet.

The visit was focused on the alliance with Japan and relationships with U.S. Navy and U.S. government leaders, demonstrating the key role the city of Yokosuka plays in the U.S.– Japan security relationship. The visit also addressed the continued focus on nuclear safety regarding nuclear-powered warships forward deployed in the area.

“The U.S.– Japan Alliance is strengthened not only through our military cooperation, but through the enduring relationships we share with our host communities,” said Johnson. “Mayor KAMIJI’s visit reflects our mutual commitment to understanding one another, strengthening our partnerships and ensuring that Yokosuka remains a cornerstone of peace, stability and security throughout the Pacific.”

In Washington, D.C., KAMIJI met with Adm. Daryl Caudle, Chief of Naval Operations, and Vice Adm. Scott Gray, commander, Navy Installations Command, to strengthen mutual trust that is imperative to maintaining the alliance between the Navy and the city of Yokosuka.

“Yokosuka is far more than the home of our forward-deployed naval forces – it’s a community whose friendship, generosity, and steadfast support have strengthened the U.S.-Japan alliance for generations. Meeting with Mayor KAMIJI in Washington – and continuing our conversations over dinner – gave us the opportunity to speak candidly, strengthen mutual trust, and deepen

the personal relationship that underpins our institutional partnership,” said Caudle. “Alliances are ultimately built on trust between people, not just agreements between governments. Those enduring relationships help ensure that our navies, our governments, and our communities continue to stand together in preserving peace, stability, and security throughout the Pacific.”

“Everyone I met spoke about the importance of Yokosuka to the U.S.- Japan alliance and expressed their deep appreciation for the city,” said KAMIJI.

Fleet Activities Yokosuka has hosted the U.S. Navy’s sole forward-deployed nuclear aircraft carrier for the past 18 years. That ship is currently Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). Nuclear safety is an ongoing point of relevance, not only for the installation, but for the citizens of Yokosuka.

KAMIJI also met with Adm. William Houston, director, Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, Adm. Karl Thomas, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Vice Adm. Richard Seif, commander, Submarine Force/Submarine Force Atlantic Fleet/Allied Submarine Command, and Rear Adm. Daryle Cardone, Director, Operations and Plans (N3) Office of the Chief of Naval Operations. The Mayor also met with the Japanese Ambassador to the U.S., as well as several national security leaders in the Nation’s capital.

“Yokosuka is the only city outside of the United States where a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier is forward-deployed,” said KAMIJI.“I believe the very presence of this nuclear-powered aircraft carrier is a symbol of the Japan – U.S. Alliance. It is important that nuclear-powered aircraft carriers continue to be operated safely and stably.”

Houston agreed, emphasizing that the safety of nuclear propulsion remains the Navy’s highest priority and is fundamental to maintaining the trust of the people of Yokosuka.

“Our unwavering commitment to safety and environmental stewardship is at the heart of our special relationship with the people of Yokosuka,” said Houston. “Our meetings gave us the opportunity to talk about these shared interests and strengthen our long-standing partnership.”

On July 29, the group departed Washington and arrived at Pearl Harbor, home of the U.S. Pacific Command. While in Hawaii, the group visited with Adm. Stephen Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Rear Adm. Erik Eslich, Director for Operations (J3) U.S. Pacific Command, and the Consulate General of Japan in Honolulu, as well as Submarine Force U.S. Pacific Fleet. The group also participated in a wreath-laying event at USS Arizona Memorial at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

“Standing at Pearl Harbor is a reminder of how far our two nations have come,” said Johnson. “What was once a place marked by conflict now stands as a symbol of one of the world’s strongest alliances. That transformation is possible because generations of Americans and Japanese have chosen partnership over division, and it is our responsibility to continue building that legacy.”

As the delegation returned to Yokosuka, the visit served as more than a series of official engagements. It reaffirmed the enduring partnership between the United States and Japan – one built through decades of trust, shared values and a mutual commitment to peace and security in the Pacific. For the people of Yokosuka, the journey offered a deeper understanding of the relationships that continue to strengthen one of the world’s most enduring alliances.

CNFJ/RJ’s primary responsibility is to provide shore readiness to the fleet; to liaison with the Japanese government; and to strengthen ties with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. CNRJ is responsible for the Navy installations at Atsugi, Misawa, Okinawa, Sasebo, Yokosuka in Japan, and support activities in Diego Garcia, Singapore, and Australia.

Operating alongside naval forces from Canada, Denmark, and France, Wichita will strengthen interoperability with allied and partner nations while conducting advanced maritime operations across the Labrador Sea, Davis Strait, and Greenlandic fjords. The deployment reinforces shared commitments to regional security, freedom of navigation, and stability throughout the North Atlantic and Arctic.

“Operation NANOOK TUUGAALIK provides an exceptional opportunity to train alongside our closest Allies in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime regions,” said Cmdr. Richard Dunn, commanding officer of Wichita. “Our Sailors are prepared to operate in the High North, strengthen allied interoperability, and demonstrate the professionalism and adaptability that define the U.S. Navy.”

Throughout the exercise, Wichita will participate in maritime domain awareness operations, search and rescue scenarios, tactical maneuvering, and integrated naval training designed to improve multinational coordination in Arctic and sub-Arctic environments.

Operation NANOOK is the Canadian Armed Forces’ signature Arctic operation and demonstrates the collective ability of Allied and partner nations to operate together in the High North. The annual TUUGAALIK maritime phase enhances readiness through realistic training that strengthens interoperability, improves maritime awareness, and reinforces the rules-based international order.

As part of the U.S. Navy’s forward maritime presence, Wichita’s participation reflects the United States’ enduring commitment to Arctic security and cooperation with Allies and partners in an increasingly strategic region.

Reactivated in 2018, U.S. 2nd Fleet commands assigned maritime forces across the western and eastern Atlantic and the Arctic, employing combat-ready naval forces to defend the maritime approaches to the United States, strengthen NATO interoperability, and deter aggression alongside Allies and partners.

For more information, imagery, and updates on Operation NANOOK TUUGAALIK 2026, visit the U.S. 2nd Fleet website or follow @US2ndFleet on social media.

Loe served as the NMRTC Lemoore commanding officer since July 2025 and will be temporarily reassigned to NMFP. Capt. Robin Bennett, the executive officer of NMRTC Lemoore, will be temporarily assigned as commanding officer until a permanent relief is identified. The relief of the CO does not impact the command’s operational readiness.

DRPM RAS leverages the successful and proven DRPM model first established for submarines. This marks a decisive step toward correcting years of fragmented requirements, resourcing, and acquisition practices that dispersed accountability, complicated industry engagement, and slowed delivery to the warfighter. The organization is designed to operate in concert with the Department of War’s DRPM for unmanned offensive and defensive systems (UxS).

Christopher Miller will serve as the acting DRPM RAS, reporting directly to William Toti, performing the duties of the Under Secretary of the Navy. Miller will concurrently serve as acting Portfolio Acquisition Executive RAS, mirroring the DRPM Submarine model.

“We are at an inflection point in naval warfare, and the Department has been approaching robotic and autonomous systems through arcane processes that do not deliver capabilities at the speed our Sailors and Marines need,” said Toti. “Secretary Cao has directed us to replace that model with clear accountability, faster decisions, and a relentless focus on the warfighter.”

The DON is also reviewing the potential relocation of DRPM RAS staff out of Washington, D.C. and closer to Fleet warfighters. The review is assessing whether such a relocation would strengthen collaboration with operational forces and ensure Fleet feedback remains closely connected to capability development and fielding.

“To remain the most lethal and technologically advanced maritime force in the world, we must both improve and accelerate how we partner with industry to develop and deliver the next generation of warfighting capabilities,” said Miller. “Success depends on ensuring operational requirements drive rapid development so we’re delivering the right solutions to the warfighter.”

The establishment of DRPM RAS marks a significant step in the DON’s effort to modernize acquisition governance and strengthen maritime deterrence.

 

 

Capt. Thomas Flaherty, commander of Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 4, under which Virginia operates, welcomed the crew home and praised their efforts.

“The deployment of USS Virginia to the European theater underscores the critical role our undersea forces play in maintaining security and stability alongside our international partners,” Flaherty said.”The crew of Virginia executed highly demanding missions with the utmost professionalism and precision, demonstrating the elite capabilities of our fast-attack fleet. Their performance on this deployment has set a high standard for readiness, and we are incredibly proud to welcome them back to their homeport here in New London.”

Wheelis said he considered it an immense privilege to welcome the crew and their families back to Submarine Base New London after a challenging and rewarding deployment.

“This homecoming is a time to celebrate the sacrifices made by our Sailors and the support of their families and loved ones,” Wheelis said.“To the families: thank you for your patience and strength while your Sailor dedicated six months to defending our freedoms and strengthening national security. To the crew: your steadfast commitment to each other is astonishing. Keeping Virginia in the fight and ready to execute was no easy task, but your grit was unmatched and reflects great credit on this command and what the United States Navy is about.”

During the deployment, the crew successfully kept Virginiaon station through three extensive periods of national tasking in arduous and austere environments.

“My ship and my crew were consistently in the right place at the right time and ready to respond to any threat to our freedoms with overwhelming force,” Wheelis added.“As we reunite, we look forward to a period of well-deserved rest, maintenance, and time with family, while remaining ready to answer the nation’s call whenever needed. Welcome home, Virginia—I’m proud of you and your accomplishments.” While deployed, Virginiasteamed more than 36,000 nautical miles and conducted a key port visit to Tromsø, Norway.

The deployment marked major milestones for the crew: 46 personnel earned their submarine warfare devices—commonly referred to as “dolphins”—and five Sailors welcomed new babies.

Hospital Corpsman 1st Class David Griffenbergand his spouse, Molly Griffenberg were honored with the ceremonial first kiss on the pier. Chief Logistics Specialist (Submarine) Brian Boyd was awarded the ceremonial first hug with hisspouse, Sarahi Boyd.

USS Virginia is the tenth U.S. Navy vessel named for the Commonwealth of Virginia, following the most recent USS Virginia (CGN 38), a Virginia-class cruiser commissioned in 1976 and decommissioned in 1994. Previous ships to bear the name USS Virginia included the first USS Virginia of the Continental Navy, a 28-gun sailing frigate built in 1776, and the Virginia-class battleship (BB 13), commissioned in 1906. The submarine Virginia has a crew of more than 130 personnel, is more than 377 feet long, and can displace nearly 7,900 tons.

The Virginia-class of nuclear-powered fast attack submarines are designed for a broad spectrum of open-ocean and littoral missions. Fast-attack submarines are multi-mission platforms enabling five of the six Navy maritime strategy core capabilities – sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security and deterrence. They are designed to excel in anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship warfare, strike warfare, special operations, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare and mine warfare. Fast-attack submarines project power ashore with special operations forces and Tomahawk cruise missiles in the prevention or response to regional crises.

 

SEACAT 2026 is a multilateral exercise designed to enhance maritime cooperation among the participating nations and to provide mutual support in addressing maritime crises, contingencies, and illicit activities. The exercise’s shore phase in Singapore includes the newly integrated Maritime Operations (MAROPS) Forum, combining previous operations and intelligence workshops to enhance realism and collaboration, where participants will share best practices, refine integrated maritime processes, and prepare for the at-sea phase.

Concurrently, a revised Senior Leader Forum (SLF) engages senior military leaders from participating nations to share lessons learned on collective maritime challenges, improve understanding of integrated maritime operations, and participate in a capstone tabletop exercise alongside operational commanders and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operators.

“This year’s SEACAT marks a significant evolution in how we train and cooperate, highlighting the strength of the enduring partnerships we’ve built and our collective capability to work side-by-side in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.” said U.S. Navy Capt. Aaron Taylor, commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73. “By combining our operations and intelligence workshops into the new Maritime Operations Forum and enhancing our Senior Leader Forum, we are building a highly integrated maritime team. This enables us to collectively address modern, complex threats, ranging from unmanned systems attacks to maritime sovereignty incursions, ensuring our partners remain ready to defend regional security, protect critical sea lanes, and uphold international law.”

During the SEACAT sea phase, participating nations will practice tracking and intercepting simulated vessels sailing through Southeast Asian waters. Participating nations will work to provide real-time sensor cueing and vessel contact information to partner Operational Centers (OPCENs), Maritime Patrol Reconnaissance Aircraft (MPRA), and surface assets. By exercising these complex scenarios in real time, which include critical regional challenges such as search and rescue, illegal fishing, contraband smuggling, and maritime sovereignty incursions, SEACAT participants enhance their collective capacity to detect, deter, and counter modern maritime threats in accordance with international law.

SEACAT demonstrates shared commitments to maritime partnership, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific. The Sixteen nations participating in SEACAT 2026, includes Bangladesh, Brunei, Canada, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor Leste, Tonga, UK, Vietnam, and the United States.

U.S. 7th Fleet, the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

“While many of ONR’s discoveries shaped the wider world, other less well-known breakthroughs transformed the daily lives of our Sailors and Marines on the front lines,” he said. “Having served in Iraq, Afghanistan and Somalia, my perspective is that what ONR does isn’t theoretical — it’s personal. It’s what saved our lives over there.

“For eight decades, ONR has stood at the vanguard of naval power,” Cao continued. “You’re the operational engine that transforms science fiction into tactical reality on the high seas.”

Cao gave his remarks during a special celebration honoring ONR’s 80th anniversary. Held on July 31 in the Pentagon Auditorium, the event highlighted eight decades of critical scientific and technological innovation for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.

In addition to commemorating historical achievements, the celebration discussed the future of integrated naval power and technological dominance — and featured more than 20 ONR technology displays on the second-floor Apex of the Pentagon’s 9th and 10th corridors.

Chief of Naval Research Dr. Rachel Riley talked about ONR’s newly released 2026 Science and Technology Strategy, which calls for a fundamental transformation of how the command prioritizes, develops and deploys technology to the Navy and Marine Corps.

Riley also introduced the CNR Fellows program. Launching this year, the fellowship brings newly tenured academic professors to ONR for a one-year term to learn about naval priorities, and provide technical oversight and state-of-the-art expertise.

“Every time I come to the Pentagon, I think about a poster here that has a George Washington quote from 1780,” said Riley. “It says, ‘There’s nothing so likely to produce peace as to be well prepared to meet an enemy.’ It speaks to the broader importance of ONR’s mission — to ensure that every U.S. Sailor and Marine, every platform within the Joint Force, is equipped with the latest and greatest technology.”

In addition to Cao, ONR’s anniversary celebration featured other prominent guest speakers:

• Adm. James Kilby, Vice Chief of Naval Operations
• Dr. Joseph S. Jewell, Assistant Secretary of War for Science and Technology
• Dr. Peter W. Singer, noted author, strategist and futurist

“For 80 years, the Office of Naval has shaped the way we fight,” said Kilby. “Long before a ship is commissioned or a capability reaches the fleet, someone had to imagine that was possible. For 80 years, that has been ONR’s mission — to look beyond today’s requirements and prepare for tomorrow’s fight.”

Jewell recalled his time as a university professor and awardee of ONR’s Young Investigator Program — and expressed gratitude for the command’s sustained support of his academic research in hypersonics.

“The innovations taking place through ONR are truly mission-driven, and support the warfighters of today and tomorrow,” he said. “The mission of ONR is paramount to our nation’s economic and national security.”

During his presentation, Singer outlined five technological areas — what he called “lineages” — in which he believes ONR has been particularly effective since its establishment in 1946:

• Unmanned systems, robotics and autonomy
• Sensor improvement and integration
• PNT, C5ISR and battlespace awareness
• Ocean science, acoustics and undersea warfare
• Troop protection, materials and human performance

“In 1946, ONR started with six basic branches, including physics, fluid mechanics, aviation and physiology,” said Singer. “From that structure, ONR has taken into areas that now extend from cyber to autonomy to directed energy. Entire departments are named after words that didn’t even exist in 1946. That shows an organization evolving and changing the very lexicon of human scientific and military capability.”

Warren Duffie Jr. is a contractor for ONR Corporate Strategic Communications.

About the Office of Naval Research

The Department of the Navy’s Office of Naval Research provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps’ technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 55 countries, 634 institutions of higher learning and nonprofit institutions, and more than 960 industry partners. ONR, through its commands, including headquarters, ONR Global and the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., employs more than 3,800 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel.