USS Key West (SSN-722)

• Commissioning and Namesake: USS Key West (SSN-722) is a Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered attack submarine, commissioned on September 12, 1987. She is the third U.S. Navy vessel named after Key West, Florida. • Cold War Service: Key West was commissioned during the final years of the Cold War and was active in patrolling and intelligence missions aimed at countering Soviet naval activity. • Homeport Changes: The submarine has had several homeports, including Norfolk, Virginia; Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; and her current location at Naval Base Guam, reflecting her adaptability to various strategic missions. • Tomahawk Strikes: During Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, USS Key West launched Tomahawk cruise missiles against targets in Iraq, demonstrating the submarine's strike capabilities. • Arctic Operations: Key West has participated in under-ice Arctic exercises, showcasing her ability to operate in extreme environments and contributing to the U.S. Navy’s understanding of Arctic submarine operations. • International Exercises: The submarine has taken part in numerous multinational exercises, such as RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific Exercise), promoting interoperability with allied navies and enhancing tactical proficiency. • Humanitarian Role: In 2004, Key West was involved in search and rescue operations in the Pacific, demonstrating the versatility of submarines in non-combat roles. • Technological Upgrades: Over her service life, the USS Key West has received significant upgrades, including advanced sonar, fire control, and communications systems to maintain cutting-edge warfighting capabilities. • Cultural Recognition: The city of Key West, Florida, maintains a strong bond with the submarine, regularly honoring her crew and commemorating the vessel's achievements during annual Navy Week events. • Longevity and Service: As of 2024, USS Key West continues to serve actively, making her one of the longest-serving Los Angeles-class submarines, with a career spanning over three decades of operational deployments, exercises, and missions worldwide.