USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9, and Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) arrived at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Oct. 16, 2026, ahead of exercise Keen Sword.
The visit provides the ship’s crew with an opportunity to conduct routine maintenance and resupply, while preparing the strike group to participate in a premier joint-bilateral field training exercise.
“Our crew is honored to visit Yokosuka and experience the rich culture and hospitality of Japan,” said Capt. Will Mathis, commanding officer of Theodore Roosevelt. “Port visits like this are vital for crew morale and mission readiness, allowing our Sailors to rest, recharge, and prepare to operate seamlessly alongside our allies during exercise Keen Sword.”
While in Yokosuka, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9 will engage in professional exchanges with counterparts from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) to align tactical procedures and strengthen bilateral integration alongside preparations for Keen Sword 2027. Keen Sword is a routine, biennial bilateral field training exercise designed to increase readiness and interoperability between the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and U.S. military forces.
Before the port visit, commanders emphasized to crews that they are expected to uphold good order and discipline, comply with the liberty policy, and treat their Japanese hosts with respect.
“Our time in Yokosuka allows us to experience the incredible warmth and hospitality of our hosts,” said Rear Adm. Marcos Jasso, commander, CSG-9, referring to the Japanese cultural concept of wholeheartedly looking after guests. “The U.S.-Japan Alliance serves as the cornerstone of peace and security across the region. Every engagement with our JMSDF allies and the Japan community deepens the mutual trust vital to keeping this region free and open, especially as we transition to complex bilateral operations during Keen Sword.”
The Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group is conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. The strike group, alongside allies and partners, is committed to an Indo-Pacific that is free and open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient for all nations.