USS George Washington, East China Sea (CNN) -- By his own admission, one of the U.S Navy's top commanders says his Pacific fleet "gets all the best stuff" when it comes to state-of-the-art weaponry -- an undeniable reflection of President Barack Obama's so-called pivot towards Asia. The flagship of its 7th fleet, the Nimitz-class USS George Washington aircraft carrier boasts a formidable arsenal; from the latest FA-18 fighter jets, to anti-submarine helicopters and early-warning surveillance aircraft. Add to this the fleet's numerous missile destroyers, cruisers and submarines and the statement of intent is clear to see -- Washington is serious about its role in the region.
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U.S. 7th Fleet commander says his fleet gets the preponderance of the latest weapons
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Vice Admiral Robert L. Thomas says Asia region is now the most important strategically
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The carrier strike group has been conducting exercises with Japan amid tension with China
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Thomas concedes threat to security no longer about vast opposing armies and navies
U.S Navy
The carrier air wing that operates from the George Washington is the most advanced in the @placeholder -- and our task force commanders out here get the full support of the 'home office' in Washington."