On November 30, the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp arrived in Rio de Janeiro for a short visit. The vessel docked at Mauá pier, after a two-month mission in the Caribbean supporting hurricane relief operations. Wasp is stopping in Rio while in transit to its new homeport in Sasebo, Japan, where it is slated to relieve the USS Bonhomme Richard.
The USS Wasp is truly a “floating city,” with a crew of approximately 1,000 Sailors, the capability to embark more than 2,000 Marines, along with the equipment and supplies needed for combat action and provision. Its impressive command and control suite, flight deck, well deck, and medical capabilities give the United States a powerful crisis response option when the need arises. Measuring 844 feet and weighing 44,000 tons, the warship is able to transport 31 aircraft and multiple high-speed landing craft. It was built in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and commissioned in 1989.
During their stay in Rio de Janeiro, USS Wasp crew members participated in community relations activities that include renovating, painting and cleaning a public school as part of a joint activity coordinated by the Brazilian Navy.
