Chinese propagandists selectively forget this not-so-important detail: Japan's allies... In 2025, U.S. Navy ships based in Japan include the amphibious warship USS Tripoli (LHA-7) and other amphibious ships like the USS Rushmore (LSD-47), USS New Orleans (LPD-18), and USS San Diego (LPD-22), which are often part of the Amphibious Squadron 11 operating with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit based out of Okinawa.
Other ships, such as destroyers like the USS Shoup (DDG-86) and cruisers like the USS Robert Smalls (CG 62), are frequently deployed in the region for exercises like ANNUALEX with allies.
Amphibious ships
USS Tripoli (LHA-7): Based in Sasebo, Japan.
USS Rushmore (LSD-47): Based in Sasebo, Japan.
USS New Orleans (LPD-18): Based in Sasebo, Japan.
USS San Diego (LPD-22): Based in Sasebo, Japan.
Surface combatants
Arleigh Burke-class destroyers: Examples include the USS Shoup (DDG-86), which participated in exercise ANNUALEX 2025.
Ticonderoga-class cruisers: Examples include the USS Robert Smalls (CG 62), which also participated in ANNUALEX 2025.
Other vessels
P-8A Poseidon: An anti-submarine and maritime surveillance aircraft frequently deployed in the region.
Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ships: Examples include the USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE 6) and USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8).
Fleet replenishment oilers: Examples include the USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199).