The newest destroyer to join the Navy's Pacific Fleet is scheduled to arrive at its homeport of San Diego today for the first time, according to U.S Navy officials.
The USS Spruance was commissioned in October at Naval Air Station Key West and is set to make its first appearance at Naval Base San Diego this morning.
It is the second American warship named in honor of Adm. Raymond Spruance, who commanded Carrier Task Force 16 during the Battle of Midway in World War II.
The USS Spruance, commanded by Cmdr. Tate Westbrook, has a crew of 285 sailors and carries Tomahawk cruise missiles, a 5-inch gun, sonar systems and two helicopters, officials said. It is powered by four gas-turbine engines and is capable of speeds of more than 30 knots.
The USS Spruance is assigned to Destroyer Squadron 23. When deployed, it will help promote security and provide disaster relief within the Third Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Pacific, according to the Navy.
