Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan embarked on his first international trip this week to reinforce the Department’s commitment to the indispensable U.S.-Japan Alliance which remains a cornerstone of peace and prosperity in the region. Secretary Phelan met with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Ministry of Defense counterparts to discuss opportunities to improve security cooperation, enhance modernization, and increase investments that challenge a provocative China and reestablish deterrence in the Indo-Pacific. Charged with expanding and revitalizing U.S. naval shipbuilding, the Secretary toured Japan Marine United (JMU) to understand industry best practices and encourage investment in American shipyards, reinforcing President Trump’s America First agenda. The Secretary also visited the USS George Washington (CVN 73), a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier that embodies the greatest projection of strength in the fleet, while in port for Selected Restricted Availability.