USS Frank Cable Makes Strategic Stopover in Jeju-Do, Republic of Korea

JEJU-DO, South Korea (Oct. 13, 2024) – The USS Frank Cable (AS 40), a U.S. Navy submarine tender, has concluded its port visit to Jeju-Do Island, signaling the continued strength of the U.S.-ROK alliance. This partnership, established through the U.S.-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty seven decades ago, is one of the world’s most steadfast military alliances.

“This port visit was an outstanding opportunity to strengthen the relationship between our people and our navies,” stated Capt. Mike Thompson, commanding officer of the USS Frank Cable. The visit facilitated interactions with the Republic of Korea navy and fostered bonds that support regional stability. As nations, both the U.S. and ROK aim to bolster deterrence and enhance alliance readiness through various strategic engagements.

During the four-day stay, the USS Frank Cable performed services alongside the ROK Na Dae-Yong (SS-069), a Chang Bogo-class submarine, demonstrating its repair capabilities for allied submarines in the Indo-Pacific theater. The crew also engaged in leader discussions and ship tours with ROK personnel, deepening mutual understanding while exploring Jeju-Do’s culture.

ROK visitors were given insights into the USS Frank Cable’s main operations and expeditionary capabilities. They engaged with sailors from various departments including Repair, Weapons, Supply, Medical, and Deck. The visit reinforced the technical cooperation between the two navies through practical demonstrations.

The Frank Cable crew reciprocated with a tour of the ROK’s Na Dae-Yong submarine. MMN1 Gregory Ray, from Snohomish, Washington, expressed enthusiasm over the experience, noting the unique configurations of the foreign submarine compared to U.S. classes, emphasizing the diversity in maritime engineering.

The timing of the USS Frank Cable’s visit was significant, coinciding with the U.S. Navy’s 249th anniversary and closely following the anniversary of the U.S.-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty. These commemorations highlight the enduring military cooperation between the two nations.

Forward-deployed in Guam, the USS Frank Cable provides pivotal maintenance and logistics support to submarines in the Indo-Pacific, pivotal for national security operations. Operating under Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, the U.S. 7th Fleet plays a critical role in maintaining a secure and open Indo-Pacific region.