5JULYULY-SEPTEMBE- R 1998 VOLUME 60 NO.3 $3.50 The Magazine of the Navy League of THE NAVY THE NAVY

During August. 1998. the Naval Air Station. VIEWPOINT HMAS ALBATROSS will set the scene with a major 50th Anniversary Air Day. with dozens of aircraft and helicopters The Navy Number 3. 1998 is a pot-pourri' expected on show. The public display will of news and articles from the World's span five decades, of , with Navies. numerous flying, museum and static Most recently, for Australia, the first ever displays. Peoples Liberation Army - Navy (PLA-N) The new Combat Fleets of the World Task Group visit was successfully 1998-99 naval reference book is expected Navy Needs Major Modernisation Urgendy 3 undertaken in Sydney during the early part to be available in local bookshops from Chinese Naval Task Group Visit to Australia 4 of May. This edition also features a special July-August. Spanning 1220 pages, the Navy League of Australia; Statement of feature, including a post 1998-99 edition includes more than 4.750 Policy t Defence White Paper commentary, the photographs and line drawings. This year, Canada's Naval Forres Adjust Course 7 veteran Westaland Wasp Helicopter Story for the first time, a j>Q;ROM version is New Tank Landing Ship for 9 and an update on the 'new', interim SH-2F available. A Defence Budget 1998-99 10 Seasprites, which are now flying. of The Navy. New Zealand - Special Feature An 'oldtimer' making a comeback into -After the 1997 Defence White Paper 18 Australian military service in the Lighter -Wasp Finale 20 Amphibious Re-supply Cargo Mk V. more - SH-2F Scasprites Enter Service 21 commonly referred to as the LARC V. A Ross Gillett LARC V Makes a Comeback! 23 number of the 30-year-old Army IOWA'S Legacy - The Surface Action Group 25 watercraft are being updated for service T1NGIRA (SOBRAON); Some early scenes 29 aboard the RAN's two modified LPAs. The opinions or assertions expr essed lr> The Navy are What Is an EM! 30 KANIMBLA and MANOORA. This report those of the authors and are not rmam^w those of the also includes the latest RAN photographs Federal Council of the Navy League of Australia, the of the modernised MANOORA. Editor of The Navy or the REGULAR FEATURES

Viewpoint I Naval News 11 The Navy League of Observations 16 The Old Navy 29 Book Reviews 30 AUSTRALIA FEDERAL COUNCIL SOUTH AUSTRALIAN DIVISION Corporate Members Patron In Chiet He Exceiency The GtMnor General Patron: Ha Excefcncy. The Gowmor of South Auserale THE AUSTRALIAN SHIPOWNERS' IMHnt Ge*»n M hhrrt. RFC President Abn Piesloa.RFO IS Sleeps Hi Dr*«. ASSOCIATION Vice-Presidents: RADM AJ Robertson AO DSC. RAN P»mm>SAS04l. COMPUTER SCIENCES OF AUSTRALIA (Raft John CORE H^P Adam AH RAN (Red). Hon. Secretary: Mes J E GJ. GPO Box IS29. AddMde PTY LTD CAPT HA (ogephs. AM. RAN (Rid) SA 5001 Telephone(08) 8347 l«S Hon. Secretary: Dcxi SdirapeLPO Box l3S.V\boJv*c, TASMANIAN DIVISION BTR AEROSPACE AUSTRALIA SA SOI I Telephone (08) 8347 1985 Fax: (08) 8347 3256 Patron: Ha Excefcncy. The Gowmor of Tavnana HAWKER DE HAVILLAND LIMITED NEW SOUTH WALES DIVISION President ML Cooper. OMQF5M ROCKWELL SYSTEMS Hon. Secretary: Patrore rts ExcelencyThe Go*mor of New South Mrs J M Cooper 42 Arr^r Raid Llu*eston Tas. 7250 Tdephaie nj Fa>c(03) 6344 1531. AUSTRALIA PTY LTD Wales. State Branthea: STRANG INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD President R O Albert. AM.RH1RD The Navy Hon. Secretary: J C J jeppcsen. OAM, RFD GPO Box Devonport P Oteary 11 Tasman Race. Oevonpon. 1719 Sydne, NSW 1043 Tas 7310 *Uephone(03) 6424 5064 All Letters to the Editor and contributions to: "Telephone: (02) 9570 8425 Fax (02) 9232 8383 BunfeG DM. 40 Cherry Street 8umie.Tas 7320 The Editor. Ross Gillett VICTOWAN DIVISION Telephone (03) 6431 4023. LauKeaton: 4 Dela Close. Palronc His Exceiency The Gotemor of Vlaora. Mrs ^ M Cooper. WESTBtN AUSTRALIAN DIVISION Dee Why. NSW. 2099 President J MWfcw RFD* Patron: His Exccfency. The Gownor of Western Subscriptions and Membership ilin ilium. Trci mrrr-r- n iri Bex HI Detwry Ceroe VIC 3128 All magazine subscriptions and membership Telephone and Fax: (03) ">5«0 9927 AHHevJtcf enquiries to: QUEENSLAND DIVISION Hon. Secretary: ^Vs G Hewn. 23 Lar4er Road The Hon Secretary. Patron: Ms Excelency. The Governor of Queensbnd Anadile.WA 6156. Telephone (08) 9330 3600. NSW Division. President IM Fraser. OAM Genddton: E Bedcwth. 2 IteheJ Street. Range"* WA Navy League of Australia. Hon. Secretary: R D ftxAcn. RFCl PO Box 170 6530. Telephone (08) 9921 3768(H) (08) 9921 1200(8) GPO Box 1719. OevebndQId 4163 telephone (07) 3345 2174 AfcanpDBrv Lot 46 Fredend. Street GUma Sydney. NSW. 1043 Calms A Cummecn PO B<» 1009. Carre, Qid 4870 Afce^WA 6330 Telephone (08) 9841 6542 National Email address: Telephone: (07) 4054 II9S FEDERAL ADVISORY COUNCIL [email protected] TownsvMe: I McDoupJ. PO Box l47&TbwnsvfcQld F Geolfre)'Evans. 08E.VRQ Charman 4810 Telephone (07) 4772 4588 Nefl Bead. Oue nun Balrd RUomrs Chinese visitors to Sydney. May I998. From top; guided missile QINGDAO. Internet Home pages for Federal and State Madc^r rtrcWOsbonxPO Box 5527 Mad<^. QW 4740 WnvBofcha AM Divisions: replenishment ship NANCANC and training ship SHICHANC. arriving on 4 May. (Photos - 8 Morrison) Tdephcne (07) 4955 1663 Admrtl MthaelW Hudson. AC. RAN (Rtd) BuxHbee* .euKfcber] URL:http://www.netspace.netau/~navyleag I lohse.POBt* 5l4l WotQW VMMrtnl DM Laadv AC C8E.LVCHWB1 4670 Telephone ;07) 4151 2210 Wee AdnWSrRldanl Peak. KBE.C& DSC RAN (Rtd) Front cover The Royal Australian Navy's second Anzac class frigote. ARUNTA. on trials in Port Phillip, early 1998.1Photo - Naval Photo Unit) Copy deadline for the next edition is Southport IVFoot. POBex 946, SouehportQW 4215. John Strang, Ovuriran Strang International Pty Ltd 9 August 1998. Telephone (07) S532 2447

PAGE I THE NAVY 'THE NAVY operated over a wide range of missile types. Some of these are marginally more NAVY NEEDS MAJOR effective than those used for our basic comparison. MODERNISATION URGENTLY The worrying factor is that the first upgraded FFG will not even start trials By Navy Leaguer Firstly, the Anzacs are much newer than the until two years after the first regional FFGs so will remain in service much longer. surface combatant with new generation In reply to the article in the January- For some five years now, the RAN anti-ship missiles enters service. has been pressing to have its six During this longer period it must be March. 1998 edition concerning the fate The FFG upgrade project has undergone Adelaide class FFGs upgraded. expected that the missile and aircraft threat of the former minehunter CURLEW. I will develop to more capable weapons. a long series of examinations and re- forward some additional information. The need for this was confirmed by an To put this into perspective, surface examinations. The successive changes in The old mine warfare vessel was saved analysis of the new generation types of launched anti-ship missiles currently in capabilities, designs and plans for missile either already on the market or from the scrap mecal merchants about 14 service in the region have a speed of implementation of the upgrade give the expected to become available over the months ago by myself, an ex-submariner mach 0.9 and a range of some 40 nautical outside observer the impression of next few years. The analysis then made an Purchased for $40,000. CURLEW is miles with active radar or infra-red dithering over capability needs with the estimate of the number of missiles and currently berthed at the Woolwich homing systems. The most flexible need to get the design and capability right Singapore Naval Base, prior to handover to ANZUK. On the right is HMAS SWAN, with a launching vehicles (ships, submarines, Marina in Sydney, undergoing repairs patterns (sea skimming etc) can make the becoming bogged down in a wish to get Royal Fleet Auxiliary on the left (Photo - Bill Wilson) helicopters and fixed wing aircraft) before heading to Hobart. Tasmania in defence task more difficult. Some ships the paper process right. expected to be in service in the region. The Anzac war fighting improvement June or July. Singapore The class of as exemplified by are fitted with longer ranged missiles with From this, the quality of defence likely to be program AAW phase gives the same Dear Sir. HMAS SWAN and variants was the most much smaller warheads. The work to restore the vessel to her required by the RAN and the date by which impression. A study has been followed by successful class of warship in modern Current plans - the fitting of evolved Sea The accompanying photograph was taken that defence should be provided to keep original condition is a labour of love and Sparrow missiles. Nulka active off-board another study. times and should therefore be carefully these ships combat worthy in our broader determination, as a fine example of in Singapore Harbour in 1971. On the decoys - will provide the Anzacs with a preserved for future generations. region was determined. The fact is that the space limitations and working Naval heritage. In 2003 it is right is the destroyer escort HMAS substantial defence against these 0.9 other factors limit the degree of YARRA, The arguments by bureaucrats and The primary purpose of this upgrade is to planned to steam the 50-year-old units of the and a mach missiles. The FFG upgrade will upgrading of the FFGs. politicians against the cost of provide the ships with an effective self CURLEW back to Montrose, where Royal Fleet Auxiliary on the left. provide these ships with effective defence preservation are spurious when you defence system against the new generation Due to the flexibility of their design, the against today's anti-ship missiles. she was originally built for the Royal What about other readers sending in opportunities for improvement of the consider the millions they have spent on of anti-ship missiles. For some time, the way Navy. Until their AAW war fighting their old photos so the rest of us can see to do this has been clear in principle.A new Anzacs are much greater. Old Parliament House as a national improvement program is complete, the Gary Hamer the Navy at work. I enjoy The Navy very type of missile and launching system must There is room for an Aegis type phased shrine to "hot air'. Doubtless, the same Anzacs will also be incapable of defence Fax: 03 6261 1614 much, keep up the good work. be provided. The new missile must be array radar, another major radar arguments were mooted against against today's anti-missiles. Bill Wilson integrated into the ships' combat system. installation, for a markedly more capable preserving HMS VICTORY. until Before the end of the century (less than KARRATHA 6714 Improved sensors must be provided. combat management system, and for two years from now), a regional power overwhelming public opinion saved her Technological advances will enable these much longer ranged anti-aircraft will have major surface combatants in from being scrapped. new missiles and improved sensors to be missiles. Preserving Warships Service armed with a surface to surface VICTORY remains the flagship of the C-in- used together with existing ships' systems Dear Sir. missile with speed of mach 2.5 (mach 4.0 The AAW phase of the Anzac program C Portsmouth to this day and millions of much more effectively than previously. Gary is keen to hear from former should provide the RAN with a really Editor: The Navy, in the attack phase) and a range with I must agree with Mr. Genge ( tourists have visited her. How many Largely in parallel with the plans to upgrade crew members, prospective crew and anyone active/passive radar homing of nearly 90 modern long range AAW system. January-March. 1998) regarding the would have dived to her sunken wreck? the FFGs. the RAN began planning to On top o' that, the Anzacs' combat interested in helping with the project nautical miles. preservation of our warships. The Americans have been keen to improve the war fighting capabilities of the management system should be able to eight ANZAC class then under conserve examples of old warships, but The simplicity and effectiveness of this provide the FFG's larger AAW missiles construction for the RAN. the RAN has shown little interest in its comparison should not be diluted by the with an improved targeting data and This would take advantage of the foresight numbers of additional types of missiles guidance to enable the FFGs to play an old ships, while our governments show which saw substantial room for additional effective role in defence against new types even less concern. ANZAC capabilities designed into the class. of anti-ship missile. D. G. Gwyer It was planned to retrofit some of the However, the RAN will not have the ROCKINGHAM 6168 earlier ships with these improved war AAW improved Anzacs until at least two fighting capabilities and to build the years after the FFGs. That is until some capabilities into the later ships whilst they five years after the Mach 2.5 class of were still building. missile enters operational service with a The first part of the improvements, regional power. involving surface warfare, are comparatively If the FFG upgrade and Anzac war fighting straightforward. Final details have been Editor: Up to mid 1998 numerous former improvement program had progressed RAN ships had been preserved. These resolved. Detailed contract negotiations are smartly, the RAN would not be in the underway with the ships' builders (Tenix include. ADVANCE. CASTLEMAINE. position of receiving these vitally Defence Systems). missile DIAMANTINA. JOHN OXLEY. KRAIT. important new capabilities until five years launching equipment, a torpedo decoy VAMPIRE. WHYALLA, to name the larger after we may need this defence. system and a mine avoidance sonar will be However, that is not to be. This and units, now open for public inspection. installed. similar delays will continue to occur until Indications are that one or two Oberon class The second part of the improvements is it is recognised that it is more important submarines and the guided missile proving much more difficult, providing to get the ships right than it is to get the PERTH and BRISBANE will also be preserved the ANZAC class with a much more HMAS SYDNEY, at anchor in Jervis Bay. 1989. paper process right. CURLEW (Photo -John Mortimer) in the next few years. HMAS comprehensive anti-air warfare capability. (Photo - RAN)

PAGE 2 PAGE 3 THE NAVY

the crowd. Before attending a dockside When the weather turned 'bad', the crew's reception moved indoors. press conference with RADM Ritchie, he (RAN) CHINESE NAVAL TASK GROUP thanked the RAN band through its leader. LCDR Philip Andrews. VISIT TO AUSTRALIA At a crowded press conference. RADM Fangrun was asked if. because of the success of the present links between the A Warm ...But Wet...Welcome to Harbour was carried out in sunny two navies, if in the short, or long terms. the PLA N conditions but by 0900 heavy cloud had Australian sailors might serve aboard By Graham Davis begun to appear in the southern skies. PLA-N ships and vice versa. He said it was QINGDAO berthed just after 0900 where More than 1000 people, many from the "possible" Australians would visit Chinese the RAN Band, the Sydney Standing local Chinese community, braved leaden naval establishments but stopped short of Guard and a large group of RAN officers skies to provide a warm welcome to saying they would serve aboard his ships. waited. They were led by the Maritime Sydney to three ships of the Peoples He extolled the quality of his nation's Commander Australia. RADM Chris Liberation Army - Navy in May. It was the naval university. Ritchie. With the gangway landed. RADM first ever visit to Australia by the PLA-N. QINGDAO sails for the open sea. Fangrun moved to the wharf where he RAMD Ritchie said he welcomed the visit Shouting "welcome, welcome" in Mandarin (Photo - LSPH Simon Metcalf) was met by RADM Ritchie, the Chinese as he did the co-operation between the and Cantonese, the crowd, many of them Ambassador to Australia and Consul to two Navies. The co-operation improved Touring HMAS WATERHEN. (Photo - LSPH Sieve Gumett) I jHPkr ^ w ] children, lined Fleet Base East to greet the Sydney and several women from the local the stability in the region, he said. RAMD two-year-old guided missile destroyer Chinese community. Ritchie, under questioning from a US nev/s QINGDAO (CAPT Fu Guosen). the L reporter, said he did not see a problem replenishment ship NANCANG (CAPT Liu With the guard commander inviting the with the Chinese ships visiting Australia Wanglin) and the training ship cum RADM. in Mandarin, to review the guard, and perceptions of this in the United helicopter carrier SHICHANG (MDR Yao the senior Chinese officer moved States. He pointed out that four Chinese Liqiang).The three ships were manned by through the lines of young men and warships had indeed visited the US last 676 officers and sailors. women sailors followed closely by news year. The conference revealed that more Aboard the destroyer was Rear Admiral crews whose images were soon be Australian ships will soon visit .Their Chinese sailor doing 'pipes'. Han Fangrun the Deputy Commander of transmitted across Australia and the destination had not yet been determined. (RAN) the PLA-N North Sea Fleet, while RADM globe. RADM Fangrun moved to the dais sailors with Michael The press conference came to an end mkPLA-N ABSCO Qu Jichun. the deputy commandant of the where he joined RADMR Ritchie. Davidson, aboard with RADM Ritchie pointing to the sky QINGDAO Dalian Naval Academy was embarked in "On Ying"' declared the Australian (Photo - LSPH Steve Cumett) behind the reporters and declaring "we S HICHANG officer...which translated said "welcome are going to get wet in a minute." He was to Australia." As the three light grey painted ships not wrong.The heavens opened and more inched towards the wharf, the RAN band "It is a great please to to welcome you than 400 people rushed for cover. Many struck up. fireworks were deonated and here." He said the visit by the Chinese sheltered in dockside facilities, others two Chinese lion dragons began to dance. ships was a first and was an "historic under umbrellas, but in a move not on the Chinese and Australian flags were waved occasion." program, hundreds went up the gangplank QINGDAO. and a large banner declaring "Warmest RAMD Ritchie told the large crowd of and aboard the The crew was Welcome" in Cantonese and Australian the visit by Australian ships to China last s

PAGE 2 PAGE 4 THE WAVY THEH*¥Y

afloat support for two task forces as well The oldest operational destroyer in the as the capacity to support operations in Canadian fleet, the improved Restigouche STATEMENT OF POLICY sub-Antarctic waters. CANADA'S NAVAL FORCES class destroyer HMCS TERRA NOVA, was • Advocates the acquisition at an early placed in 'extended readiness' status in Navy League Of Australia coast and island territories, including in date of integrated air power in the fleet Halifax in July, l997,The specialised diving support ship HMCS CORMORANT, a The strategic background to Australia's the Southern Ocean. to ensure that ADF deployments can be fully defended and supported from the former Italian trawler acquired in 1975, security has changed in recent decades • Advocates the transfer of responsibility, by Antony Preston* and Mk 15 Phalanx 20mm 'Gatlings'. The sea. was decommissioned after 19 years and in some respects become more and necessary resources, for Coastal In one sense there is no Canadian Navy, ships were also supported by Canadian service, also in July, having been declared uncertain. The League believes it is Surveillance to the defence force. • Advocates that all Australian warships merely a naval element in the unified support vessels. should be equipped with some form of surplus to requirements. essential that Australia develops the • Advocates the acquisition of the most Canadian Forces of Maritime Command, but Strategically, the country has three defence against missiles. Plans to build another four DDG variants capability to defend itself paying particular modern armaments and sensors for for convenience it will be referred to as the maritime flanks, the Atlantic and Pacific of the City design have been dropped, and attention to maritime defence. Australia our small defence force to ensure that • Advocates that in any future submarine Canadian Navy in this survey. To complicate seaboards and the Arctic. The land construction program all forms of it is hoped to upgrade four (presumably is. of geographical necessity, a maritime the ADF maintains some technological matters further, it is no longer known as the frontier with the United States presents propulsion, including nuclear, be the oldest) to DDGs. with Standard SM-2 nation whose prosperity strength and advantages over forces in our general , but retains the no more than a cultural threat and is air defence missiles after 2002. These will safety depend to a great extent on the area. examined with a view to selecting the privilege of naming its ships HMCS granted totally open. The internal problems of Tribal most advantageous operationally. nearly 90 years ago. replace the class, reducing the security of the surrounding ocean and separatism in French-speaking Quebec • Advocates measures to foster a build- escort force to a dozen frigates from its island areas and on seaborne trade. up of Australian-owned shipping to • Advocates the acquisition of an seem unlikely to cause any change in As a staunch NATO ally and a noted current total of 20. additional 2 or 3 Collins class The Navy League: ensure the carriage of essential cargoes participant in United Nations peace- overall defence strategy. submarines. Several notable deployments have been • Believes Australia can be defended in war. keeping activities for many years. Canada Even if the 'nightmare scenario' of undertaken by the patrol frigates in the against attack by other than a super or • Supports the development of the mine- has borne a significant military burden, Quebec's secession happens, the majority • Advocates that defence industry have last 12 months. HMCS HALIFAX made a major maritime power and that the countermeasures force. and the end of the cold war has inevitably of French-Canadians show little interest the ability to construct all types of recent deployment to in prime requirement of our defence is an • Advocates the development of a weakened political support for the in acquiring a navy. Indeed, comparatively warships and support vessels and to August the first time a Canadian Navy evident ability to control the sea and air modern state-of-the-art hydrographic/ military. few French-Canadians appear to show provide their through life support ship had entered a South African port for space around us and to contribute to oceanographic fleet hydrographic much interest in joining the Navy. • Advocates the need for defence To put it succinctly, many of Canada's more than 40 years. On 22 September, defending essential lines of sea and air officer supported by LADS aircraft The naval element of the Canadian Forces industry to maintain a capacity to politicians question the need for balanced the HALIFAX departed South Africa communication to our allies. • Advocates the retention in a Reserve can. therefore, be very grateful that the provide systems and sensor integration forces, and so projects such as the bound for South America, where the Fleet of naval vessels of potential value Soviet Union was considerate in not • Supports the ANZUS Treaty and the for the ADF including through life replacement submarines are given a much frigate and her Sea King helicopter were in defence emergency, rather than their future reintegration of New Zealand as software support. lower priority than, say, armoured collapsing before the Patrol Frigate due to participate in a multi-phase disposal. a full partner. personnel carriers. The former is programme was well advanced. international exercise Unitas '97, off • Advocates that defence industry be City • Supports the maintenance of a strong This has provided 12 class ships, well the coasts of Argentina, Uruguay and • Urges a close relationship with the supported by research capability within 'aggressive', the other is connected with naval Reserve to help crew vessels and equipped for anti-submarine warfare . nearer ASEAN countries. PNG and the industry and DSTO to ensure the peacekeeping, and is therefore affordable. aircraft in reserve, or taken up for The truth is that Canada will be much (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) Island States of the South Pacific in all incorporation of technologies into the The patrol frigate HMCS REGINA service, and for specialised tasks in time over a period of ten years. The last relevant fields. ADF at the earliest opportunity. more influential in the post-cold war of defence emergency. returned to Canada from a six-month world if she has a balance of credible HMCS OTTAWA, was delivered last year • Advocates a defence capability which is As to the RAN. the League: deployment as part of the UN Maritime • Supports the maintenance of a strong forces. by Saint John Shipbuilding. knowledge based with a prime Interception Force in the Gulf in August • Supports the concept of a Navy capable Naval Reserve Cadet organisation. Also delivered in the early 1990s were consideration given to intelligence, This was well demonstrated in the Gulf Tribal During the deployment the ship was of effective action off both East and The League: four class destroyers converted to surveillance and reconnaissance. Crisis in 1990-1991, when Canadian naval responsible for intercepting and West coasts simultaneously and air defence ships (DDGs). The two Calls for bipartisan political approach to units were able to share in Coalition inspecting Iraqi vessels coming and going • Believes there must be a significant advocates a gradual build up of the Annapolis class destroyer escorts (DDES) national defence with a commitment to a operations with comparative ease. from Iraq in order to ensure that they deterrent element in the Australian Fleet to ensure that in conjunction and the two similar Improved Restigouche steady long-term build-up in our national Destroyer escorts were hurriedly complied with UN sanctions against that Defence Force (ADF) capable of with the RAAF. this can be achieved class will all be gone by 2002. defence capability including the required upgraded with RGM-84 Harpoon missiles REGINA powerful retaliation at considerable against any force which could be country. also visited Hong Kong, industrial infrastructure. distances from Australia. deployed in our general area. Australia, New Zealand and several of the While recognising current economic Gulf States during her deployment • Believes the ADF must have the • Believes it is essential that the problems and budgetary constraints, the HMCS CHARLOTTETOWN. another patrol capability to protect essential shipping destroyer/frigate force should include League believes that given leadership by * frigate, joined in a series of exercises in at considerable distances from ships with the capability to meet high successive governments. Australia can ? the Baltic with former cold war Australia, as well as in coastal areas. level threats. defend itself in the longer term within adversaries in September of 1996. A acceptable financial, economic and • Supports the concept of a strong Air • Advocates the development of afloat total of 26 ships, including HMCS support capability sufficient to provide manpower parameters. Force and highly mobile Army, capable CHARLOTTETOWN. participated in a of island and jungle warfare as well as 'Partnership for Peace' exercise off the the defence of Northern Australia. coasts of Poland and Sweden. • Supports the acquisition of AWACS Together. HMC Ships ALGONQUIN. aircraft and the update of RAAF aircraft WINNIPEG. REGINA and conducted an • Advocates the development of important two-month deployment in the amphibious forces to ensure the Western Pacific towards the end of 1996 security of our offshore territories and The deployment known as WESTPLOY, to enable assistance to be provided by reflects Canada's growing interest in the sea as well as by air to friendly island Asia Pacific region, and saw the ships visit states in our area. Japan, Hong Kong, the . , South Korea and Russia and join • Advocates the development of in Exercise RIMRAC '96 equipment skills and experience in the Plans to replace the three 30-year-old ADF for patrol and surveillance of the Ojibwa class diesel electric submarines ocean areas all around the Australian Tribal class destroyer sails for RIMPAC exercises. (Photo - Brian Morrison)

PAGE 2 PAGE 7 THE NAVY THE NAVY

(SSKS) were delayed, and now the An important programme which escaped for its permanent homeport of Esquimalt. the direction and elevation of the gun Canadian Navy was faced with the the axe was the Maritime Coast Defence British Columbia. NEW TANK LANDING SHIP barrel to increase probability of hits. unhappy prospect of losing its submarine Vessel (MCDV) project. This has resulted The ageing shipboard helicopter force is | d. A Naval Gun of 76 mm calibre. Kingston J capability altogether. The replacement in the construction of 12 class by becoming a serious worry. At present a e. An Electro-Optic Director. This infra- plans were initially marred by what can Halifax Shipyards - over half have been total of 23 CH-124 Sea Kings are FOR SINGAPORE red vision device will be used to track only be described as 'wild mood swings" delivered and the remainder will be operated for ASW, ASuW, Search and targets. Not long ago there was talk of a force of delivered by 1999. Intended to be Rescue (SAR) and utility duties. These The Republic of Singapore Navy the bow door and ramp, or from the well : f. A self defence weapon based on the 12 nuclear powered hunter-killers manned largely be reservists, these 55.3m airframes are now very hard to maintain (RSN) has launched the first of a dock. Equipment handling facilities include Mistral surface-to-air missile system. (SSNs). leading to a brutal struggle vessels combine general patrol duties and replacements are urgently needed, new class of locally-built Landing a pair of 25-tonne capacity ship cranes, | The new ship's armament includes an between the British and the French with with an advanced mine countermeasures but the procurement process has been Ship Tank (LST). At the launching sited amidships. ! the Americans trying to scupper the capability. OTO Breda 76 mm Super Rapid gun delayed by political indecision. A deal to ceremony held at the Singapore whole idea. In 1992 it was announced that Construction of the ead ship began in | forward. 0.5in machine guns and surface- Half will be allocated to Maritime Forces buy two versions of the Anglo-Italian EH Technologies Marine, the lead ship up to six modern SSKs would be bought, early 1997. with the keel of the first vessel j to-air missiles. Atlantic on the west coast and the St 101 Merlin wai wrecked by budget cuts was christened RSS ENDURANCE. but then, that commitment was dropped laid down on 26 March last year. On | The RSN's fleet of new and old LSTs is Lawrence River, the remainder going to some time ago, but the need for modern ENDURANCE is the first of four new LSTs Needless to say. there was no longer any completion of outfitting and setting-to- i operated by the 3rd Flotilla's 191 the Pacific Squadron at Esquimalt in airframes will not go away acquired by the RSN to replace the chance of SSNs. and even the modest work. ENDURANCE is planned to begin British Columbia. The keel laying Early in 1998 the Department of National Navy's existing ex-County class LSTs. The Squadron. The vessels provide sea hope of replacing the Ojibwa-class one- sea trials in November. 1998. Delivery to ceremony of the tenth MCDV. the future Defence (DND) was reported to be current five LSTs. acquired from the transportation for SAF personnel and for-one was fading.The best hope seemed the RSN will follow in the first quarter of HMCS SASKATOON, took place on 05 close to a decision on the procurement in the 1970s, are their equipment, detached for overseas to be the acquisition of the four 1999. with the ship expected to become September 1997 at Halifax Shipyard Ltd. of 15 SAR helicopters at a cost of becoming highly uneconomical to training duties. LSTs are also used for redundanc Upholder class SSKs from the fully operational in 2000. The same week, the first patrol on the Can$600 million. Subsequently, the operate and maintain, having been in ; training cruises, as support ships, and UK Royal Navy, which were on offer at a Accommodation is provided for a ships' Grand Banks off Newfoundland by a Westland Cormorant was selected. A operational service for more than 50 during peacetime, rescue and relief efforts. very reasonable price. In fact these complement of 65 officers and crew (half Kingston class ship. HMCS GLACE BAY. decision was still awaited on an ASW years. In addition, the existing LSTs are At the ceremony, Dr Tony Tan Keng Yam. powerful SSKs would be ideal for the that required aboard the old LSTS). took place. The patrols are designed to helicopter replacement. reaching the limits of their capabilities in Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Canadians - the design was optimised for Propulsion is provided by two Ruston offer support to Canada's Department of In the longer term the three providing expeditious and effective sea Defence spoke about the new class; high submerged endurance and Arctic diesels driving independent shafts. Fisheries and Oceans. replenishment ships (AORs) will need to transportation of SAF personnel and | "This morning's launch of a new class of surveillance operations. Finally, in 1998. The eighth 'Kingston' class vessel. GOOSE be replaced after 2005. A more flexible equipment for overseas training Maximum range is in excess of 5,000 nm I landing ship tank is another-demonstration the decision was announced that the four BAY. was launched on 04 September. design is proposed but no decision can be deployments. at a cruising speed of 15 kt. I of both MINDEF's and the Singapore Upholders would be acquired. (See Naval 1997. In August the third of the series. expected for at least two years Specifications Government's commitment to ensuring News report) WHITEHORSE. HMCS departed Halifax *With contributions from David Foxwell. The new LSTs have been designed to fully Length : 141 metres that strong fundamentals and political meet the island nation's requirements for Beam : 21 metres stability remain the bedrock of our sea transportation as well as carry out Draft: 4 metres nation's progress and prosperity. the role of supporting the RSN's Speed : 15 knots Singapore is a small country highly Midshipman sea training deployments. Displacement: 6000 tonnes dependent on external trade for our Innovative features will allow the new Complement: 65 officers and men survival. As such, external developments LSTs to be operated by 65 personnel as The new LST will be equipped with often have far-reaching implications for compared to the 130 personnel required modern shipboard and combat us. Our consistent policy has been to to man the RSN's present LSTs. With a equipment and systems including : strengthen the fundamentals like defence larger sea lift capacity and a higher cruise which underpin our country's long-term speed of 15 knots, the new LSTs will be a. An Integrated Navigation and competitiveness and security. able to transport personnel and Communication System to provide a With Singapore's limited land resources, equipment to overseas training areas centralised system for communication the SAF faces the constraint of limited using fewer vessels and personnel and with various positions within the ship, training space for our soldiers, sailors and more quickly. This will result in greater other ships and shore units. operational and cost effectiveness and pilots. To enable realistic, i igorous and efficiency. b. An Integrated Bridge System manned i demanding training to be carried out, the by one operator who will control both SAF actively looks for suitable overseas Fearless The new LSTs. like the RSN's the direction and speed of the ship. training areas to offset local space class patrol vessels, were designed and Presently in the older ships, it takes constraints. For many years Landing Ship constructed by local shipbuilders. two persons to perform these tasks. Tanks (LSTs) of the Republic of Singapore Singapore Technologies Marine, with all c. A Gun Fire Control System, featuring a Navy (RSN) have been transporting four units scheduled to be completed by computerised system that calculates j vehicles, personnel and equipment for the year 2001.Then the present LSTs will be retired from service. The LSTs come under the command of the RSN's Third Flotilla of the Fleet.

The main superstructure extends forward from amidships, leaving sufficient space for a large flight deck aft capable of taking two 10-tonne helicopters or providing space for a vehicle park. Four landing craft (two on either beam) are carried on davits. Internal ramps and lifts will allow stores, equipment and personnel accommodated below-decks to be embarked and disembarked as HMCS VANCOUVER appropriate from the flight deck, through

PAGE 8 PAGE 7 THE NAVY THE NAVY training overseas. However, the Navy's larger and faster, the new LSTs will be RSN's operational and training JOINT EXERCISE existing LSTs were acquired from the fully capable of supporting the SAF's commitments, as well as act as sea The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) United States Navy in the 1970s. They overseas training requirements. training platforms for the Navy's and the Republic of Singapore Navy have been in service for more than 50 Innovative and modern technologies will midshipmen. The ships are capable of (RSN) conducted a Mine years. With upgrading, we have been able be incorporated into the new LSTs to deploying to more ports and countries in Countermeasure (MCM) exercise, to extend the useful lifespan of our LSTs assure higher system reliability and the region and beyond as part of their codenamed EX HUNTER 98, off but they have increasingly become availability and allow greater automation training cruises. Such port calls have a the coast of Newcastle, from 13 to uneconomical and inefficient to operate. of manual tasks.This means that, while the significant role in extending and 24 Apr 98. MINDEF has therefore decided to new LSTs are larger and more complex facilitating MINDEF's defence diplomacy. replace the Navy's current landing ship than the existing ones, they will require Such diplomacy helps to foster and The third in this series of bilateral tanks. ENDURANCE is the lead ship of significantly lower manpower and system enlarge bonds of friendship and mutual exercises. EX HUNTER 98. was hosted understanding. four new LSTs to be acquired by the maintenance requirements. this time round by the RAN. RSN These will replace the 5 aging LSTs As with their predecessors, the new LSTs EX HUNTER included planning for MCM that the RSN currently operates. Being will continue to provide support for the operations and the conduct of such HMAS ANZAC's operations at sea. The RAN deployed NATIONAL AWARD seven Mine Countermeasure Vessels (MCMVs); HMAS RUSHCUTTER and DEFENCE BUDGET 1998-99 On 4 May. the Governor of Western HMAS SHOALWATER and the auxiliary Australia. His Excellency Major General minesweepers. BROLGA, WALLAROO. Michael Jeffery AC MC. presented the BANDICOOT. KORAAGA BERMAGUI. Two views of the new MHC HAWKESBURY. and Chief of Navy.VADM D. B. Chalmers The Government has announced HMAS ANZAC with the Navy League of on the way we in Navy undertake our before and after her launching on 24 April, Seven RSN officers together with the AO RAN approval for stage 2 of a significant new Australia Perpetual Trophy. business, my focus is to ensure that the 1998. (Photos - Brian Morrison) Australian counterparts, participated in The 1998-99 Defence budget of AUST major capital facilities project to objectives set out in my future directions Accepting the award was the MCM plan ling, as well as undertaking ALBATROSS ANZAC. $ 10.945 billion, announced by the Federal redevelop HMAS to meet statement are oursued with the vigour commanding officer of HMAS minehunting via a pair of Bofors command, control and umpiring Treasurer, maintains the funding base at ongoing helicopter, maritime support and necessary to maintain safety standards at Captain Marc Bonsar. CSC. RAN on Underwater Systems Double Eagle mine responsibilities. training requirements. This project is behalf of the ship's company. zero real growth - this outcome is in the highest possible level, enhance our disposal vehicles. To control the Double The exercise allowed the RSN to work estimated to cost about $76 million and HMAS ANZAC won this community keeping with the Government's core warfighting skills throughout the Eagles, commands will be relayed from together with the more experienced award for 1997 from fierce competition commitment to the level of Defence will be completed over the next three fleet, particularly in ASW. A known the MHC via fibre optic links to inside the RAN in the area of MCM operations, with spending promised by the Prime Minister years. A further $ I 3 million will be spent throughout our region - we must be from other Fleet units and shore vehicle. the two navies mutually benefiting. on the stage three development of ready to fight and win at sea. when and as establishments from around Australia. on his election in 1996. This allocation To counter hostile mines, each Double HMAS STIRLING, and within Canberra a required. ANZAC's win sees the prestigious shield represents 1.9 percent of GDP (the same Eagle will carry a disposal charge slung $30 MILLION BOOST total of $65 million will be spent in remain in the west as HMAS STIRLING as in 1997-98) and 8.7 percent of total The broader Defence aim is to achieve under the vehicle or be fitted with finalising the Russell Redevelopment won the trophy in 1996. FOR WHANGAREI Commonwealth outlays (an increase the optimum balance between capital mechanical cutters to sever the wire Pro|ect which includes the collocation of ANZAC's nomination was for her heavy New Zealand Defence Minister Max from 8 4 percent in 1997-98) investment in equipment and facilities, holding the moored mines. the service headquarters with the involvement with the Albany Children's Bradford has announced that up to Under the r.ew DRP (Defence Reform operation and support costs, and funding HAWKESBURY and her sisterships will Defence Headquarters. Cancer Care Group, the ship's adopted an extra $30 million worth of work Programme) structure, my allocation for to meet personnel requirements. also embark mine clearance divers, able Funding to meet milestones associated charity. In an extraordinary effort since on the ANZAC frigate project had NHQ (Naval Headquarters. Maritime and Efficiency in the delivery of our services to operate to depths of 90 metres. with capital equipment projects for the the ship's commissioning in May. 1996 been won by Whangarei. Training Commands and all and support is crucial if we are to free up The Royal Australian Navy's current mine Anzac ship. Collins submarines. Huon more than $8000 was raised in 12 "The announcement means that more PNF/Reserves salaries is some $935 the resources necessary to enhance our countermeasures force comprises two minehunters. and Seasprite helicopters months for the charity. than half of the module construction million. Support Command has been capability and preparedness. This, of Bay class inshore minehunters has been continued. 1998-99 will see the This money was raised through work for the entire frigate project will allocated $606 million for Navy Logistics course, was the primary reason for (commissioned 1986-87) and five delivery of HMAS ARUNTA. HMAS undertaking the Defence Efficiency innovative fund raising activities including now be done in New Zealand, all of it in Operations. Overall these allocations equal auxiliary minesweepers, converted 1988 WALLER. HMAS HUON. HMAS Review. a sponsored "Shave off" which saw 60 Whangarei." Mr Bradford said. "That the 1997-98 expected budget outcome. to 1994. after various commercial HAWKESBURY. HMAS LEEUWIN and people go under the clippers from the means new jobs for Whangarei. the A significant feature of this year's budget careers. All are homeported to HMAS MELVILLE The purpose of the Defence Reform has been the increased funding allocated HMAS into service. The year previous commanding officer down to development of specialist shipbuilding Program is to realise major expenditure WATERHEN. in Sydney Harbour. to specific Navy-related activities within will also see the launch of out third male and female sailors. skills, and a sizeable boost to the local gains in order to fund measures such as The lead and nameship of the new MHC m.nehunter (HMAS NORMAN) and the economy." Support Command. This equates to class. HUON. is expected to be ANZAC STUART). the Navy specified items identified about $440 million across the next four fourth of the class (HMAS above. For this budget. Navy's DRP commissioned into the RAN in Mr Bradford's comments follow the years to help address vital capability and In addition, some $20 million will be HAWKESBURY savings target in 1998-99 is about $40 December this year, followed by announcement by prime contractor for preparedness deficiencies. Areas to spent in 1998/99 on the initial phases of million, to be funded mainly from LAUNCHED HAWKESBURY in late 1999. Other the ANZAC frigate project. Melbourne's receive particular supplementary funding acquiring Penguin anti-ship missiles for reductions in the total number of service members of the Huon class also under TENIX Defence Systems, that it will be over the next four years, include Naval the Seasprite helicopters, upgrading the The Royal Australian Navy's new personnel to accord with DRP outcome. construction include NORMAN, doing construction and fitout work for Aviation ($80 million), funding to retain hydrographic survey suit' in the survey coastal minehunter (MHC) HMAS To achieve both the DRP aim and my GASCOYNE, DIAMANTINA and YARRA two hull modules for each of ships 7.8.9 HMAS TOBRUK ($68 million), at a total of motor launches, acquiring electronic HAWKESBURY was launched in own objectives for the Navy, we must and 10 at its site in Whangarei. Tenix will $27 million to ensure HMAS KANIMBLA chart display and information systems NEWCASTLE on 24 April. 1998. develop our workforce so that the right also be spending an additional $3 million and HMAS MANOORA will meet full (ECDIS) for our surface combatants, and HAWKESBURY is the second Huon class people are in the right place at the right developing its existing Whangarei site to operational status, and additional funds of initiating work to further enhance the MHC to be built by Australian Defence accommodate the new work. Collins time, in the right rank and with the right about $90 million to correct Logistic weapons system of the class.These Industries at their Carrington yard and prerequisite training and acquired skill » "All up. the hull module and site support shortfalls across £ range of are all significant measures designed to the second RAN warship to be named sets. This will require a significant development work will inject an extra important weapons systems and ships enhance our warfighting capability into after the major river system, north of 1 $25-30 million into the loc?l Whangarei reshaping of our current workforce over machinery/plant items associated with the future. Sydney. the next few years to ensure our economy - a very significant addition to keeping HMAS PLATYPUS in commission From an organisational perspective, this capability and overall preparedness In service the 720 tonne HAWKESBURY Sjf-i i the $100 million worth of construction until mid-1999. funding for the port next financial year will see the changes meets our emerging needs. will be crewed by 36 officers and other and fitout work already being done there services and support craft contract and required to implement much of the ranks and carry a defensive armament of on the superstructure modules of frigates Seasprite helicopter training costs. Defence Reform Program start to impact one 30mm gun. Her main role will be mt 2 to 10." said Mr Bradford. PAGE 10 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY

Mr Bradford said it was important to also to provide a significantly improved ability to special warfare, covert cruise missile be providing the technical and logistic need to build a defence industry that BRITANNIA was expected to leave be aware that it was not just Whangarei detect and identify potential threats, and to strike, mine warfare, anti-submarine and support including the provision of meets or surpasses world standards on Portsmouth shortly after and. following taking dividends from the ANZAC avoid or counter them." he said. anti-surface ship warfare. In addition to its training to Canada. quality, value for money, besides delivering essential work to adapt her to her new role, project. "To date, the project has These new systems will operate at over formidable open ocean presence, the This arrangement represents the most a product on time." Mr McLachlan said. will be open to the public later in 1988. produced some $600 million worth of Seawolf the horizon distances, in all weather class is also a highly capable practical and cost effective manner of "Australia has a strategic asset of work for more than 500 New Zealand conditions, at day or night Under another shallow water warfare platform, setting securing the future of the submarines and enormous importance in its submarine companies." he said. HMAS NEWCASTLE contract the same equipment will also be the standard for submarine technology is a strong indication of the close building capability. We cannot afford to "The project has brought new skills, used for the new Super Seasprite into the next century. Its inherent stealth, relationship between the UK and Canada. let this capability disappear simply HELLFIRE PASS technology and contract experience to the helicopters, which are being acquired coupled with state-of-the-art sensors and because the current submarine building The Royal Australian Navy guided companies involved in it which in turn is from Kaman Aerospace of the USA for advanced combat systems, make it the contract will come to an end.That is why FOURTH COLLINS CLASS missile frigate (FFG), HHAS winning them a range of defence contracts the Navy's ANZAC frigates. benchmark for underwater excellence. I announced in the Strategic Review that NEWCASTLE sailed from the overseas, most notably in Australia." Hawker de Havilland Victoria Ltd will be JIMMY CARTER'S flexibility and impressive SUBMARINE LAUNCHED the Defence Department is developing an Fleet Base East on 27 March for a Defence-related exports are now earning the prime contractor and will conduct capabilities will provide the Navy with an enhanced submarine design based on the DECHAINEUX, the fourth three month operation through New Zealand some $70 million a year, most of the installation work in Australia. undersea weapons platform to operate in Collins class. That work will provide the submarine in the Collins class, and south east Asia. The deployment much of it the result of the expertise RLM Systems in Melbourne will conduct any scenario against any threat — from basis for any future decisions Government the first to be built and outfitted at included participation at the New Zealand companies have picked up much of the software integration for the under arctic ice to shallow water. will make on acquiring even more capable different Australian shipyards, was Hellfire Pass Memorial opening from the ANZAC Ship project. Mr helicopter's weapon system and modify Armed with the battle-proven submarines." the Minister said. launched in Port Adelaide on 13 on the Burma Railway Bradford said. Meanwhile. Mr Bradford the Seahawk software support centre. cruise missiles .JIMMY CARTER will be able The submarine was formally named at the March. by Prime Minister John Howard said he believed the Government would CSC Australia will complete the to safely conduct deep strike missions ceremony by Mrs Mary Purbrick. widow The Minister for Defence. Mr Ian on 24 April. have to look carefully in the coming modification of the Seahawk simulator in while submerged far off an enemy's coast of the late Captain Emile Dechaineux. McLachlan. in his keynote address, months at the issue of a replacement ship Nowra. Australian industry will also be JIMMY CARTER will also carry the Mark who died when HMAS AUSTRAUA was hit NEWCASTLE'S crew provided a fitting described the Collins class as having the for HMNZS CANTERBURY, which was due involved in providing the through life 48 advanced capability torpedo, the most by a kamikaze bomber in the Leyte Gulf naval tribute to the memorial opening potential to be as fine a conventional to retire in 2005. support for most of the procured reliable torpedo in the world for use in 1944. The ceremony was attended by with a 40 strong contingent and a systems. against surface ships and submarines. submarine as there is in the world today. other members of the Dechaineux family catafalque party dressed in full "Logic says it should be another ANZAC With twice as many torpedo tubes and a Speaking during the ceremony at the and by retired Navy personnel who ceremonial uniform. class frigate, and if that option gets the The new equipment is planned to be 30 percent increase in weapons magazine Australian Submarine Corporation served with the Captain during World go-ahead Whangarei can look forward to operational in the Seahawk helicopters by Two weeks earlier NEWCASTLE had size compared to the previous Los Angeles headquarters at Outer Harbour, the War II. still more work after frigate 10 is 2002. arrived back in Sydney after a successful class submarines. JIMMY CARTER will be Minister referred to what he called complete.' he said. Southern Ocean operation resulting in eminently capable of establishing and "exaggerated" and "nationally SECRETARY OF THE the apprehension of a foreign fishing maintaining battle space dominance. irresponsible" comments on the project ROYAL YACHT GOES SEAHAWK HELICOPTER vessel alleged to have been operating Secretary Dalton hosted President and "It is sometimes overlooked that the NAVY NAMES THIRD TO EDINBURGH illegally in Australia's Exclusive Economic Mrs. Carter at a naming ceremony for the early Fill fighter aircraft was beset with UPGRADE CONTRACT Zone off Heard Island. SEAWOLF SUBMARINE boat on 27 April. No previous ships have problems, yet it turned out to be one of The Royal Yacht BRITANNIA will NEWCASTLE The Minister for Defence, Mr Ian JIMMY CARTER. the great strike aircraft in the history of be preserved in the Port of Leith HMAS rendezvoused in Secretary of the Navy John H. been named McLachlan, announced in late March aviation." Mr McLachlan said. "We have a in Edinburgh, British Defence Darwin with the Western Australian Dalton has announced his decision that a contract for over $ 100 million clear plan to bring these submarines into Secretary George Robertson based FFG. HMAS CANBERRA, with both to name the third and final had been signed to acquire and UPHOLDER service with a proven operational recently revealed. ships proceeding 'up top' to begin to integrate forward looking submarine of the Seawolf class for capability which will be enhanced on a Subject to satisfactory negotiations. exercises with neighbouring Singaporean infra-red, electronic support and former President Jimmy Carter. SUBMARINES GO TO continuing basis." BRITANNIA and Indonesian Navies. countermeasures equipment for JIMMY CARTER (SSN 23) will honor the CANADA will be sold to an independent the Navy's sixteen Seahawk 39th President of the United States. The Minister said that HMAS COUJNS had charitable trust being promoted by Forth helicopters. President Carter is the only U.S. The Royal Navy's four redundant been successfully deployed to Ports PLC. The trust will take HMCS ORIOLE president ever to qualify in submarines. Upholder class submarines are to recently, and he looked forward to WALLER responsibility for its preservation, and He has distinguished himself by a lifetime get a fresh lease of life with the (launched last year) and DECHAINEUX running it as a visitor attraction and EPIC JOURNEY TO of public service, and has long ties to the Canadian Navy. joining their sister submarines. venue for prestige conferences. SOUTH PACIFIC Navy and the submarine force. He is a The diesel-electric submarines will go to "DECHAINEUX and her predecessors Mr Robertson said: "This has been an The Canadian Navy's sail-training 1946 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Canada as part of an eight-year leasing are helping to keep Australia at the enormously difficult decision for me. Both served as an officer aboard submarines deal, which includes a support and forefront of submarine technology and Forth Ports and the Manchester Ship ship. HMCS ORIOLE has concluded while in uniform, and served as training package to provide work for capability well into the 21st century." Mr Canal Company offered extremely good, her epic, 31,000-kilometre (17,000 commander-in-chief from 1977-1981 British industry, plus an option for the McLachlan emphasised the importance of well thought out and detailed ideas. Either nautical-mile) journey to Australia while in the Oval Office. Canadians to purchase the submarines government, industry and defence would have allowed BRITANNIA to be and New Zealand. The three submarines of the Seawolf class outright. working together to further develop the preserved successfully and with dignity. For the voyage, the navy's oldest technology, knowledge and industrial commissioned vessel carried a mixed Navy S-70B-2 helicopter at the recent are the most capable, multi-mission The government of Canada announced its "I am grateful to both organisations for ship's company of 22 personnel, including launch of the Australian Post 50th submarines ever built They combine intention, subject to final negotiations, to infrastructure. putting together such excellent proposals anniversary postage stamp. (RAN) speed, stealth, a large and varied weapons Upholder 10 trainees. ORIOLE set sail 13 October lease all four of the class "It would be infantile to pretend, on a - but sadly there is only one Britannia. load and the latest in hi-tech electronics and returned seven months later, on 13 submarines for a period of eight years. project as complex as this, that some "I was particularly impressed by to provide unlimited flexibility while May. 1998. Mr McLachlan said the upgrade contract Canada has chosen to acquire the things could not have been done better. Edinburgh's proposal to retain the yacht operating "Forward.. .From the Sea." The submarines via a lease with an option to with Hawker de Havilland Victoria Ltd These lessons - about project as a 'living' entity by using her for prestige The 15.000km route took the ketch- ships have an overall length of 353 feet a purchase as this is the most satisfactory would provide a sensor suite to enhance management about design, about how we conferences, as well as the more rigged yacht south to San Francisco beam of 40 feet displace 9.150 tons and a solution for them. the protection and combat effectiveness run our acquisition system, all these areas traditional public display. I have California then west for 14 days to Pearl crew size of approximately 130. of the Seahawk helicopters, which In an arrangement worth some 610 and more can be used to improve how concluded, on balance, that the Port of Harbor Hawaii; south again to Palmyrahas With mission and growth capability far operate from the Royal Australian Navy's million Canadian dollars to the UK. work Defence manages future major projects. Leith, which hosts many visiting ships, Island. Kiribati Western Samoa. Fiji Adelaide beyond previous submarines, the robust six class frigates. will be generated for various UK Certainly, we put a great deal of effort including a large number of Naval vessels, New Caledonia, and Lord Howe Island; design uniquely supports missions such as "The selected equipment will be fully companies in reactivating the submarines into making sure we are able constantly is on balance the more appropriate resting arriving in Sydney. Australia, over integrated into the aircraft's weapon system surveillance, intelligence collection. and for GEC Marine at Barrow who will to improve our project management. We place for this historic national asset" Christmas.

PAGE 13 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY Commissioned in 1952. the 46-year-old The remaining two PVs of the series will Aboard deep submergence support ship USS MISSOURI provide for an expanded 600-ship Navy Petters. "We are looking forward to the vessel is at home on the high seas, able to be commissioned later this year. KELLIE CHOUEST. 40 Navy divers will demonstrating global U.S. naval presence. ship returning to her birthplace for her carry 60 days of provisions for 22 crew COSCOM. set up in 1988. is responsible work with the National Oceanographic GOES TO MEMORIAL MISSOURI is best remembered as a one and only refueling in a 50-year life- and equipped to produce 500 gallons of for the security of Singapore's territorial and Atmospheric Administration symbol of peace. It was on her teakwood span." fresh water daily. waters and the conduct of all naval (NOAA) 230 feet below the ocean ASSOCIATION deck on 2 September. 1945. that Gen. In addition to the refueling of both of the Under the command of Lt.-Cmdr. Michael operations in the Singapore Straits. surface to stabilise the MONITOR The Secretary of the Navy John H. Dalton Douglas MacArthur officially accepted ship's reactors, there will be significant Brooks, two separate teams of 10 naval Besides the PVs, COSCOM also operates team will also recover artifacts as well as signed the donation contract on 4 May the formal "Instrument of Surrender" modernisation work. This includes a cadets who have graduated from public Mine Countermeasure Vessels, inshore the ship's rudder during the three-week officially transferring the historic from the Japanese to end World War II. major upgrade of the island house that universities across Canada were trained patrol boats and a diving support vessel. It mission. battleship MISSOURI (BB 63) to the USS The importance of her role as will involve the shipyard removing the top by 10 permanent crew members. Sailing works closely with other government MISSOURI Memorial Association (MMA) peacekeeper was highlighted by her last two levels of the island house and The most significant naval engagement of in the steel-hulled training ship is a unique agencies such as the Maritime and Port of Honolulu. Hi.The Association planed to operational mission when she visited replacing them. This action is driven by the Civil War took place March 9. 1862. the installation of a new antenna mast and memorable training experience. Authority of Singapore and the Police tow the ship from Bremerton. Wash., to Pearl Harbor in honor of the 50th year off Sewells Point between two ironclads, that runs down along the island and will Moreover, the 90 tonne ship is one of the Coast Guard to ensure the security and Hawaii in mid-May to transform it into a remembrance of those who died on 7 USS MONITOR and CSS VIRGINIA. The provide for better radar capabilities. The most cost-effective seamanship training safety of Singapore territorial waters and memorial museum at Pearl Harbor. December. 1941. It was a rare sight to see battle ended indecisively after several MISSOURI, shipyard is also integrating a new radar vessels in the Canadian Navy - the voyage the Singapore Straits. "I am pleased to see this transfer the Arizona Memorial and hours of fire exchanged at close range. tower aboard NIMITZ. requiring less than 500 gallons of fuel oil. In addition to the operational roles, one completed," commented Mr. Dalton."I am symbols of the "beginning and the end" of UNITY. After the crew change in Australia. of the PVs commissioned. RSS Shortly after this epic battle, the confident that the MISSOURI Memorial U.S. involvement in World War II. in the Maintenance and repair work will be MONITOR ORIOLE participated in Tall Ships Australia has been assigned as a Naval Technology sank off the coast of North Association and the people of the state of same port. performed below the ship's waterline to 1998, the largest gathering of tall ships in Evaluation Ship (NTES).The test ship will Carolina while being towed to Port Hawaii will provide the battleship include the application of a new paint. In the southern hemisphere since Australia's enable the RSN to conduct trials under Royal. SC. MISSOURI with the honored position in OVERHAUL OF addition, the shipyard will be replacing actual operating conditions. This will nearly 3.000 valves and overhauling Bicentennial in 1988. The event featured history that she holds." USS NIMITZ tall ships from around the world from Jan. contribute to the RSN maintaining its RFA SEA CHIEFTAIN Prior to her final voyage across the Pacific another 600 in various ship systems. cutting edge in naval operations. 19 to 25. It was a "grand spectacle of Ocean. MISSOURI was towed to a Newport News Shipbuilding has been More than 3,200 Newport News international camaraderie". ROLLS FORWARD mooring on the Columbia River at awarded a contract by the U. S. Navy to Shipbuilding employees will be working ORIOLE also represented Canada in the Astoria, Ore., where fresh water perform refueling and overhaul work on aboard NIMITZ during peak periods of INDIAN AND The first of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary's two Sydney-to-Hobart Australia Day' sailing eliminated marine saltwater organisms the nuclear-powered USS the overhaul and refueling project, Roll-on Roll-off ships chartered by the race, winning the event on I February, as that had accumulated on the ship's hull NIMITZ (CVN 68).The contract, valued at performance. SINGAPORE NAVIES IN Ministry of Defence from STENA Ferries the first of the tall ships' to reach the over the years. The battleship was approximately $ 1.2 billion, was signed by USS NIMITZ was built by Newport News Ltd. has been named. Derwent River and Hobart.The ship then ASW EXERCISE expected to arrive in her new home of Navy and Newport News Shipbuilding CHIEFTAIN Shipbuilding.The ship's keel was laid on 22 attended the Bass and Flinders Bicentennial RFA SEA was officially named The (IN) and the Pearl Harbor by 22 June where Mighty officials on 30 April. 1998. June. 1968. the anniversary of the Battle Maritime Festival and in late February by Mrs Carol Squire, wife of Cdre David NIMITZ, Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) Mo will be repainted and refurbished by the lead ship of the class, is also of Midway. Christened on 13 May. 1972 by arrived in Wellington. New Zealand, for Squire. Commodore RFA. at a Ro-Ro the MMA into the Battleship MISSOURI the first of its class to undergo this major conducted a twelve-day Anti- Mrs. Catherine NIMITZ Lay. daughter of the International Festival of the Arts. exhibition and conference organised by Memorial, scheduled to open to the life-cycle milestone. The ship arrived in submarine Warfare (ASW) exercise the ship's namesake. Fleet Admiral With five naval cadet trainees from the STENA in Gothenburg. Sweden. public in January 1999. late May 1998. with the work off Kochi (Cochin), South-west Chester W. NIMITZ. the ship was Royal Australian Navy, and five from the As Mrs Squire performed the naming in MISSOURI was commissioned on 11 June. performance period scheduled to last commissioned in 1975. NIMITZ's first , in March 1998. . ORIOLE began Gothenburg, a champaigne bottle 1944. and served her country from 1944 approximately 33 months. deployment began on July 7, 1976 when The exercise was the fifth in the series of her three-month trek homeward on 3 simultaneously crashed against the ship's to 1955. In 1986. following her "This is a very significant contract for it departed Norfolk. Va.. for the bilateral ASW exercises which was Mar. En route she made port visits to; recommissioning and modernization, she Newport News Shipbuilding." said NNS Mediterranean Sea. started in 1994. hull at the Societa Esercizio Cantieri Chatham Island. New Zealand; French shipyard at La Specia. Italy, where she is in served for an additional six years to help Vice President for Aircraft Carriers Mike Polynesia. Tahiti; Bora Bora; Kiribati; and It involved a series of graduated shore- the final stages of construction and fitting Pearl Harbor Hawaii. training activities and professional out. An Italian band played the national discussions, followed by a series of rigorous ASW exercises at sea. Two anthems as the event was show live at the COSCOM'S PATROL Missile Corvettes. RSS VALIANT and RSS exhibition on a giant video screen. CHIEFTAIN VESSELS NOW VALOUR, and two Anti-Submarine Patrol SEA will join RFA SEA Vessels. RSS BRAVE and KSS DAUNTLESS. CRUSADER, chartered in 1996. in OPERATIONAL from the RSN participated in the ASW providing the UK's rapid reaction forces exercise together with the IN submarine. with an enhanced strategic sealift Four Patrol Vessels (PVs) of the INS SHALKI. and the IN Frigate. INS Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN) capability - transporting military GODAVARI. Coastal Command (COSCOM) hardware, vehicles and equipment at were commissioned on 7 February, The ASW exercise series reflects not short notice to support operations and 1998, by the Deputy Prime Minister only the commitment of the RSN and IN exercises across the globe. She will enter and Minister for Defence, Dr Tony to train together for mutual benefit, but service in June, based at Marchwood Tan, at Tuas Naval Base. also the good ties and cooperation Military Port. Southampton. The commissioning of these four vessels. between the two navies. Welcoming RFA SEA CHIEFTAIN at today's RSS RESILIENCE. RSS UNITY. RSS ceremony. Cdre Squire said; "The SOVEREIGNTY JUSTICE, AND RSS s:gnified SEARCH FOR THE chartering of RFA SEA CHIEFTAIN - and a that the vessels were now operational. sister vessel which is expected to replace The RSN has to date acquired a series of MONITOR RFA SEA CRUSADER in November - 12 PVs.The first six PVs had already been Navy divers deployed for USS MONITOR provides a capable, cost-effective and commissioned and were operating under expedition departed Little Creek.Va.. May immediate answer to the UK's strategic the RSN's 189 Squadron. The vessels 25. for an expedition to the site where sealift requirement for the forseeable commissioned in February were deployed MONITOR HAMS TOBRUK. sails on another re-supply voyage to Bougainville. The ship departed from Sydney in mid the Civil War ironclad USS lies future." under the 182 Squadron of COSCOM. submerged off Cape Hatteras. N.C. May. loaded with both supplies and three cocooned helicopters. (Photo - LSPH Steve Gumett)

PAGE 14 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY Admiral Barries appointment" (Admiral Nevertheless there have been faint signs The writer first met Mr. Santamaria more United States Naval Operations, and Barrie - Vice Chief of the ADF and the that the futility of the existing situation is than 25 years ago and over the years Admiral of the Fleet Lord Hill Norton, OBSERVATIONS Service Chiefs were logical candidates for enjoyed innumerable discussions with this recognised on both sides and that some who had been Britain's Chief of Defence the top job.) changes in long-standing practices are unusual man, not least during the writer's Staff. Bob Santamaria was almost certainly period as Federal President of the Navy From Geoffrey Evans merchant raider, will ever be known as all The ministerial press release announcing inevitable. The government should stand League. The last meeting - primarily to responsible for the large audience on Sydney Inquiry SYDNEY'S people perished: while most of the changes together with other back and encourage discussion that will discuss growing waterfront problems in both occasions and the resulting publicity KORMORAN'S ships company survived consequential appointments did not say almost certainly require compromise if In August 1997 the Defence Minister Melbourne - took place in October and reports of the engagement were anything about resignations. Simply that the foolishness is to end. for the visiting speakers and the Navy. requested the Defence Sub Committee 1997. just before Mr. Santamaria was obtained at the time, it is asking too much the appointments would take effect "on B.A. Santamaria Intensively patriotic, an attribute admired of the Parliamentary Joint Committee admitted to hospital for what proved to to expect the memories of those who the date of retirement of their respective by the writer was Bob Santamaria's ability on Foreign Affairs. Defence and Trade The Navy League of Australia lost an be a terminal illness. were involved and are still alive today to predecessors". The three outgoing to investigate and report on the influential supporter and the writer a to look ahead and to advocate solutions be absolutely reliable after 57 years. (The officers, all of whom were thanked by the Hopefully our association brought mutual circumstances of the sinking of HMAS to problems he believed likely to be actual engagement is described in some good friend with the death of Mr. B. A. SYDNEY Minister for their distinguished service, benefits - to the Navy League because of off the West Australian coast on Santamaria in February this year. detrimental to Australia's future - even if detail - from reports by survivors - were approaching the end of their Mr. Santamaria's exceptional knowledge 19 November 1941. with particular Mr. Santamaria's remarkable career, in "Australia in the War of 1939-45 previously announced terms of office. of political and industrial affairs and the the solution was unpalatable. reference to: particularly in the areas of politics and - volume I Royal Australian Navy The Waterfront personalities involved in these spheres; Mr Santamaria was accorded a State the extent to which all available 1939-42") religion, has been well documented and Whatever the outcome of the latest and Mr. Santamaria I think benefited from Funeral by the Commonwealth archival material has been fully need not be repeated here. Surprise has been expressed that there the Navy League's range of contacts in Government and it was a most investigated and whether any display of bitterness in the seemingly SYDNEY Perhaps not so well known was his were no survivors from 'S endless struggle for power on the the maritime community. impressive occasion in terms of a relevant material has been interest and activities in defence and in complement of 645 (a body recovered Australian waterfront, struggle in which The Santamaria eloquence was well know misplaced or destroyed; maritime affairs - in the Navy, the attendance and religious splendour. The some months later from a carley float so far there have been no winners, only and demonstrated when he shared the writer could not help wondering - all relevant archival material believed to be from the cruiser is subject losers - not least the Australian shipping industry and in the waterfront in platform at meetings arranged by the available from allied and former of the present inquiry - reference 4). community - the extensive publicity general - the latter no doubt because of League in Melbourne for two however what Bob Santamaria. a man he enemy forces; the desirability and Many ships were lost with all hands attached to the display (not to mention his close involvement over many years distinguished visitors to Australia - knew to be a genuinely humble person, practicability of conducting a HOOD. during World War II while HMS the legal costs to the participants ) may with trade union matters. Admiral Bud Zumwalt. former Chief of would have thought about it all. SYDNEY search for the HMAS and with more than twice the complement of possibly have created an atmosphere, in the extent to which the SYDNEY, was destroyed in a matter of which commonsense can play a part. Or Commonwealth Government minutes with only three survivors - three once media attention lapses will the should participate in such a search from over fourteen hundred. public lose interest and allow a situation should one be deemed desirable It is the writer's personal view that HMAS sapping Australia's well-being to continue? and practical; SYDNEY was a casualty of war like a great Although the adoption of an adversarial - the practicability of accurately many other warships and merchant ships stance is customary in Australia - starting locating the grave of an alleged and should be left undisturbed wherever with the parliaments, continuing through body from HMAS SYDNEY which she lies. One would not wish to see an the legal system and into industrial TITANIC was allegedly buried on Christmas Australian version of the disaster relations where in some industries Island: including the waterfront it has been - a tragedy at the time and now a carried to extremes - it need not the identification of any scientific commercial money maker. inevitably be so as an increasing number procedures now available which The ABC Reaches Back of people appreciate the damage inflicted could verify the identity of human on their country by continuing feuds remains alleged to be those of a From time to time ABC television rooted in the past. crewman of HMAS SYDNEY promotional ads have shown a line of buried on Christmas Island if and sailors against an HMAS BRISBANE The Australian waterfront - the writer when such remains were located; background.The writer is reasonably sure includes both shore-based and seagoing and that the "sailors" are in fact members of a elements - is not a major user of labour sea cadet contingent he took back to measures which should be taken compared with many industries and given Britain in 1952 to represent Australia at to protect and honour the final the value of the commodities that pass the 2nd Empire Training Course the last resting places, if and when located, through the country's ports, but it is of its kind so far as the writer knows. of HMAS SYDNEY and KSN capital intensive, the providers of capital Despite a call to the ABC. the reason for KORMORAN. not unnaturally want a reasonable return a 1952 black and white photograph The committee of inquiry formed to on their investment. For some time, two appearing on television in 1998 remains a carry out the task received numerous or three major firms have handled mystery. submissions from relatives and other cargoes employing labour supplied from interested parties and arranged to have Misleading one organisation - the Maritime Union of hearings in Canberra and several State Australia (MUA) which also looks after On 7 April under the heading "Forces in essential members of the sea going capitals.The writer spent several hours at turmoil as top brass resign" a Canberra element. the Melbourne hearing when regrettably correspondent of The Age newspaper the committee was short on numbers, reported the appointment ofVice Admiral With both the main political parties the chairman C Senator David Chris Barrie as the next Chief of the determined to sell the Australian HMAS SYDNEY MacGibbon and one other member being Defence Force, replacing General Baker National Line and to depend even more present while another was linked by who was due to retire. The article went than at present on overseas shipping conferencing telephone. on to say that the Chiefs of the Army and interests to move Australia's trade, a It is not likely the real reason why the Air Force had resigned because "it is policy opposed by the MUA among SYDNEY, a 6" light cruiser, sank after understood that both men left the others, further feuding on the waterfront sinking KORMORAN. a well-armed Australian Defence Force as a result of would appear to be inevitable.

PAGE 16 PAC,F 17 THE NAVY THE NAVY interim she is being chartered out commercially. She was decommissioned HMNZS TE KAHA. (RNZN) NEW ZEALAND - in March, ready for chartering. However, critics of the Navy take the UPHAM's fate SPECIAL FEATURE as proof of 'manifestly inadequate advice' from the Navy, thus giving them ammunition to undermine the RNZN's Services that there would not be enough AFTER THE 1997 credibility. Yet the ship was a high priority capital money to buy both replacement for the Army back in 1994. it could be combat aircraft and a fourth frigate. But DEFENCE WHITE PAPER valuable to the ADF (in view of the LPA then the extra blow, of not ordering a By Commander Richard Jackson RNZN project and the ADF's new emphasis in third Anzac by November 1997. was the New Zealand's November 1997 Defence amphibious capabilities) while it would result of political position taken by the White Paper outlined the government's also be a major deep draft command junior coalition party. plans for the future force structure of the opportunity within the RNZN. It appears So the fleet now has to reduce to meet New Zealand Defence Force. The good that the timely conversion of the ship the government's new policy of a three news of the 1997 White Paper is that gained little joint service support during frigate force: WAIKATO - already reduced New Zealand's defence spending will rise, the Defence assessment process. to an alongside training ship at extended to cover new capital equipment, an But the White Paper does concede that notice - is to pay off in July 98: increased operating tempo and improved some money has to be spent on the WELLINGTON will pay off as TE MANA is pay Navy; the plan for future capital projects delivered, but CANTERBURY will steam on includes the following: Overall, the White paper confirms that until a third modern frigate (if ordered) the NZDF's force structure will include: can be delivered * Kauri Point ammunition storage a. a three frigate combat force for the The other shock for the Navy from the upgrade Navy, and a commitment to the other new Defence White Paper is the delay to * bridge training simulator naval capabilities of MCM. NCS. sealift. the conversion of the CHARLES UPHAM. " evolved Seasparrow. towed array sonar RAS. hydrography and oceanography. the military sea lift ship. The UPHAM was and torpedo modifications (ie a semi- bought in late 1994, a Mercandian class b. maintenance of an air combat North Sea Ro/Ro trader. On arrival in WIP for the RNZN Anzac frigates) capability, with the prospect of New Zealand she was painted grey, ' a fifth maritime helicopter in 2003 replacing the Skyhawks in the period given some additional communications 2007/2010. As well the capabilities of * a remote minehunting system equipment and commissioned in October maritime air patrol, air transport and * provision for the Anzacs' midlife 1995. Then she was deployed for various tactical vertical lift are to be upgrade, and trials and Army exercises. On returning maintained by electronic upgrades for from a South Pacific deployment, with * a third surface combatant by 2006 the Orions. a commitment to C-130Js virtually no cargo, she was caught in a On the face of it, this may seem a good and extending the air frame life of the storm and found to roll sharply, too list. In fact it is just sufficient to keep the Iroquois helo fleet. quickly for personnel safety, while her Navy ticking over by upgrading the c. Reviving the Army's general land high sides caught the wind and made her Anzacs' weapons, ensuring there is an HMNZS CANTERBURY, sails from Sydney combat capability by enlarging the nearly unmanageable. Navy knew that to attrition aircraft available to the Note l/it frigate's CIWS. fitted atop the infantry battalions to four-company function properly as a military sea lift ship helicopter force. continuing the helicopter hanger (Photo - CMDR Richard jackson) units (rather than the present three) UPHAM would need extensive conversion development of our MCM capability and and replacing the old M113 armoured - more water tight compartments for providing for two key pieces of personnel carriers, as well as acquiring damaged stability (which would also infrastructure. Inevitably, the inclusion in new reconnaissance vehicles, tactical provide accommodation for troops) a the long term plan of funds for a third communications and infantry weapons. water ballast system and a flight deck frigate has already attracted adverse (which like the British RFA ARGUS would political comment. Generally these force structure policies be built over a concrete slab thus are sound, except for the RNZN. The reducing the metacentric height and So what next for the RNZN. after the reduction to a three frigate Navy is a hence the rate of roll). 1997 White Paper? The Chief of Naval shock. Despite the words in the White UPHAM Staff has made it clear in one of his It is not that the is unsuitable as HMNZS ENDEAVOUR. Paper, the Navy's assessment was that personal memos to the fleet as a whole a vehicle transport (after all a sister ship (Photo - CMDR Richard jackson) four frigates are necessary to both does the Wellington-Lyttelton run every (nicknamed WADS 'With All Despatch ) sustain deployments and provide the week of the year) but in the long that the RNZN's priority now has to be necessary training capacity. distances of the South Pacific she cannot training. HMNZS WELLINGTON has been However, the chain of events that led to reasonably undertake passages in a lightly designated as a training ship (ironically, the three frigate decision, and - almost loaded or empty condition, in her current fresh out of refit, she is now equipped concurrently - the decision to not order configuration. with Phalanx CIWS and other new a third Anzac frigate, were the stuff of equipment) while the training staff at political drama. It appears that the RNZN TAMAKI Coincident with this experience, the HMNZS are seeking innovative lost the interservice/Treasury argument RNZN was at its nadir for marine ways to increase training effectiveness. In about a four-frigate fleet during the engineers, so it was convenient in 1996 to the meantime. MONOWAI will pay off in Defence Assessment process even before lay the ship up pending conversion. Yet. April and TUI has already gone out of the White Paper was agreed by Cabinet. although the design studies had been service; both are being replaced by The sacrifice of the fourth frigate undertaken. UPHAM's corversion has RESOLUTION, with a consequential Launch of the second Anzac class frigate. TE MANA. reflected concerns by the other two now been delayed to 2001/02; in the valuable saving in complements. IPhoto - CMDR Richard jackson)

PAGE 19 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY transferred to WAIKATO. The following NZ3906 was withdrawn in 1995 because has performed well beyond the morning to be flown ashore to Bluff again of ongoing excessive and incurable expectations of 1966. Regrettably the in the Wasp. vibration problems. RNZN is not going to have the honour of Air support for hydrographic operations In 1996 WELLINGTON was to return to being the last Wasp operator as this will wing the introduction into service of the Persian Gulf as part of the go to the Malaysian Navy. MONOWAI was initially undertaken by peacekeeping force, followed in 1997 by The Wasp has served us well and risen to the RNZAF, but it soon became very HMNZS CANTERBURY, each time with every occasion when called upon and for clear that with its large flight deck and the now desperately obsolete though that we can all be grateful. In reflection facilities, an embarked Wasp could indispensable Wasp embarked. the condition, safety and availability significandy help support the ship moving 1997 and 1998 witnessed the gradual record of the Wasp will be difficult to stores and survey parties ashore. By 1979 reduction in the size of the Wasp fleet as better and with this in mind, the RNZN Wasp Flights were regularly embarked in preparations for the retirement has can and should feel very proud. support of surveys. Notably, in 1980 approached. NZ 3902. with airframe MONOWAI and her Wasp were deployed hours almost time expired was SH-2F SEASPRITES to the Pacific to assist with the surveying withdrawn in early 1996 and is now for the ANZCAN Pan-Pacific destined for the Naval Museum ENTER SERVICE Devonport telecommunications cable. The Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) The early 1980s also s?w four Armilla Throughout all this time the Wasp has has entered the interim phase of its patrols to the Persian Gulf, two by accompanied RNZN Ships' deployments Replacement Naval Helicopter (RNH) WAIKATO CANTERBURY, and two by each to the Pacific Islands including regular project with the start of SH-2F Seasprite time with a Wasp embarked. Raoul Island re-supply missions. Australia. flying training and the final retirement of During 1982 and 1983. four more Wasps. Asia. The United States. Canada. The its obsolete Wasps. NZ3905. 3906. 3907 and 3908 were Middle East. The Indian Ocean. Europe The SH-2F is intended to bridge the gap purchased with HMNZ Ships and North Africa, through both the Suez between the withdrawal of the Wasp and WELLINGTON and SOUTHLAND, both of and Panama Canals. the arrival of the SH-2G(NZ) Super which were air capable, bringing the total The final four aircraft looking as good if Seasprite - the definitive RNH - in late number of Wasps to seven. The size of not better than when they first arrived in 2000. It will also provide the Naval Wasp Flight similarly increased in line New Zealand and were flown together Support Flight (administered by 3 resulting in four operational Flights to for the last time in August 1997. Squadron Royal New Zealand Air Force) support the four frigates and incidentally, coinciding with the arrival in with lead-in familiarisation and training in hydrographic operations. New Zealand of the new frigate HMNZS advance of receiving the more capable (RNZN) In 1984 Wasp NZ3907 crashed at TE KAHA. NZ3905 and 3909 were SH-2G model. Hobsonville airfield following an engine withdrawn towards the end of 1997 The specific bright spot in the RNZN at integrated into the units of the bigger failure and was repaired to an airworthy New Zealand announced the selection of WASP FINALE although this was not the end of the the moment is the Sea Sprite helicopter navies, and New Zealand never operated condition after sustaining significant Kaman Aerospace as preferred RNH by Lieutenont Andy J Nicholas, RNZN Wasp's operational life when at short or manned its own air-capable ships. damage. Regular embarkation of Wasp tenderer in March last year. A $195 program. The first of four SH-2F notice NZ 3907 was deployed with f From Navy Today. RNZN News) The first Wasps. NZ390I and 3902 were million contract for the delivery of four Seasprites has been delivered and test Flights into the Fleet tanker. HMNZS CANTERBURY WAIKATO to Bougainville in support As the twilight years of the Wasp purchased with and in ENDEAVOUR commenced after trials in SH-2G(NZ) Super Seasprites was signed flown. These are ex-USN machines that of the latest peace mission and painted in helicopter draws to an end let us briefly consideration of the RNZNs limited mid 1988. In 1992 NZ3904 was three months later. are entering service as our interim the rather catchy orange colour scheme- reflect on a quite remarkable 32 years of experience and size, provision of destroyed after ingesting a boat cover in The RNZN has chosen to procure new- helicopter, so that the Wasp could be the flying baked bean! Thereafter. NZ3907 maintenance-support, and personnel and its rotor, an accident where the pilots build SH-2Gs (rather than the retired in April (after 32 years' service!). active service in the Royal New Zealand continued ashore at Hobsonville. with aircrew training was delegated to the were lucky to survive. Unfortunately remanufactured airframes contracted by The F-model Seasprites will operate Navy. NZ3908 embarked WELLINGTON until Royal New Zealand Air Force. This NZ3901 was lost when she ditched in the Australia for its SH-2G(A) variant) as a off TE KAHA and TE MANA as well The Westland Wasp was developed from April 1998, when both aircraft were arrangement has continued successfully Hauraki Gulf in April 1993, having lost tail risk mitigation measure. Although as WELLINGTON. CANTERBURY and the Saunders Roe P531 which first flew in officially withdrawn from service. to the present day with Naval Support rotor effectiveness. Being the oldest Wasp remanufactured airframes are brought to ENDEAVOUR, until the first of the G- 1958. Originally named the Sea Scout, the Whilst reminiscing on the remarkable Flight (or more commonly Wasp Flight) and high in airframe hours it was deemed zero-hours condition, the RNZN Wasp was always intended to be a service that the Wasp has given us over model aircraft arrive in 2000, at about the being formed as part of 3 Squadron uneconomical to repair. considered that unforeseen corrosion or lightweight anti-submarine torpedo the last 32 years it is important to also same time as the RAN Seasprites arrive. RNZAF. manned by RNZN pilots and With five now in service the mid 1980s fatigue problems in later life could impact carrying helicopter for- use onboard remember that there have never been any So it is not all gloomy for the RNZN.The RNZAF maintainers. purchase of ten ex RN airframes for more seriously on the operability of its smaller warships such as frigates and fatalities associated with Wasp service in service is determined that its individual spares was becoming very useful - these small fleet destroyers. As the primary ASW weapon Wasp NZ3903 was purchased with New Zealand. It is perhaps also fortunate ships will be credible, both in terms of CANTERBURY ten Wasps were surplus after the RN system with no detection or tracking HMNZS in 1970. and these to consider that the Wasp never saw The purchase agreement with Kaman weapons and sensors, and in terms of began to retire the aircraft. To make up systems, emphasis was placed upon three aircraft continued until 1973 when action whilst in New Zealand service included the supply of four SH-2Fs to well trained ships' companies. I am for losses the best and youngest of these attaining a real rapid response capability 3903 ditched following an engine failure although in Royal Naval service in the replace the Wasp in the short term. ten Wasps was chosen to be rebuilt confident that after the shock of the 1997 or put another way. being able to deliver off North Head and was subsequently the Wasp achieved the only Having served with the RNZN for 32 during 1994. numbered NZ3909. White Paper we can resume our place a torpedo in the shortest possible time. written off during the salvage operation. helicopter submarine kill to date, crippling years, the Wasp is no longer economically 1994 saw the final embarkation of Wasps among the navies of the region. Back in Prior to 1966. the Royal New Zealand As a replacement NZ 3904 was the Argentine SANTA FE with missiles. supportable and will be formally retired to MONOWAI. The change in surveying Wellington Naval Staff will have some Navy had operated ships without Flight purchased in 1977 having been leased It is generally agreed that the Wasp is well on 9 April. methods reduced the demand for a tough battles to fight to get a third Anzac Decks. The purchase of HMNZS from the Royal Navy since 1974. due for retirement, but it is probably less Arriving by sea last November, the first regular embarked flight and the shortage frigate ordered, but I hope they don't lose WAIKATO in 1966 was the RNZN's first Perhaps the most famous incident which well known that the first utterings for the SH-2F (NZ344I) was initially used for of Wasps and pilots made this in sight of making the case for a four-frigate step into modern Naval aviation. Of involved an RNZN Wasp was in replacement Naval helicopter began as deck interface trials aboard the new increasingly difficult task to support. fleet. Yet in the meantime the RNZN will course. New Zealand had been actively November 1978. In atrocious weather long ago as 1977. As the many people ANZAC class frigate HMNZS TE KAHA.The Thereafter support has been provided by ; involved with carrier-borne aircraft conditions 260 miles south of Bluff, an who have been associated with the Wasp airframe subsequently completed a have to look nwards. concentrating on civilian helicopters operating ashore. injured Russian sailor from the fishing say a fond farewell with a tear in the eye training and on its people - they remain during WW2. notably in the Pacific comprehensive restoration and inspection vessel Ardatov was winched and it must surely be agreed that the Wasp the greatest single factor. Theatre but those aircraft were generally procedure (RIP) before a first check test-

PAGE 20 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY The update of the four-wheel-drive and LARC Y MAKES A COMEBACK! propeller driven LARC V. is planned to extend their service lives by up to 10 years.The project is one of ten LPA related activities being conducted by the Army for operations with the LPA. Total project budget is $ 15.247m with all elements due for completion in late 1999. Other major components include minor modifications to the LCM 8 landing craft, installing Army communications on the LPAs. lighterage equipment, trials and training, and cargo planning. Industry estimates on the LARC re-engineering suggest a price-tag in the order of approximately $2m. Army purchased the American manufactured LARC Vs in 1964/65. The vehicles proved both versatile and dependable craft, operating from the tropics t t the Antarctic. Each was capable of moving a 5 tonne payload of personnel and cargo from ship to shore and transfer points further inland. All were mothballed after the Force Structure Review of 1991 due to difficulty supporting the vehicles LARCV. ageing 300 hp Cummins diesel engine- based power train.

The Army's veteran Lighter Amphibious type are being refitted to play a major Following the purchase of the two former Re-supply Cargo Vehicle (LARC V) is role in the amphibious operations. USN Newport class tank landing ships, planned to return to service by early next Another 52 LARC Vs will be held in now redesignated LPAs. the need for a year in support of the Royal Australian reserve. A Request For Tender for the lighter amphibious re-supply craft re- Navy's two 8000 tonne LPAs. KANIMBLA Wosp aboard HMNZS WAIKATO iRNZN) updated versions was issued on 5 March, emerged. In US service, the Newport class MANOORA. and the aim to replace the engine and LSTs were designed to beach for the capabilities all of the time." He added: "It flight on 24 February. A formal roll-out warfare, with the capability to carry two Originally built in the 1960s and ancillary systems in seven vehicles. Similar discharge troops and equipment. After ceremony was held on 27 February. [Mk46] torpedoes, two [Mkll] depth is important to keep the SH-2F in withdrawn from service in the early 90s upgrades may be carried out on another conversion to an LPA by Forgacs of All three remaining SH-2Fs were delivered charges, or a combination of both. It also perspective in that it was only ever due to supportability problems. 12 of the three to five LARC Vs. Newcastle, the vessels will not be in December. They are undergoing RIP. comes with a rescue hoist for search and intended as an interim solution to replace with reactivation expected to be complete rescue missions and has an impressive the Wasp until the arrival of the SH-2G in by the end of July. external load-lifting capability." 2000. Naval Flight Commander Lt Cdr John First-of-class flight trials aboard the "The aircraft is neither designed nor Leander Toon said: "The initial primary purpose class frigate HMNZS configured to meet the capabilities CANTERBURY - of the SH-2F will be to train aircrew and currently in the middle intended ... for contributing to defence maintainers to operate the aircraft safely, of an aviation upgrade - are due to start outputs as specified in the RNH purchase both ashore and at sea as a front-line in early October. Trials aboard HMNZS agreement. Ultimately, the objective with TE KAHA operational unit. Initially three aircrew - are planned to start at the end the -F is to hit the ground running with two pilots and one observer - will be of that month. The SH-2F is configured the arrival of the -G at the millennium." converted to type and invaluable support with a Canadian Marconi LN-66HP The four SH-2G(NZ) aircraft will be maintenance expertise will be provided surveillance radar, a Litton AN/ALR-66 delivered with a mission system including for our newly trained engineers." radar warning receiver and a Tracor a Telephonies APS- I43PC radar. FLIR The establishment of an Observer Branch AN/ALE-39 chaff/flare dispenser. Systems' AQS-22 infra-red sensor and is a new departure for the RNZN However, the SH-2F's limited lifespan is Litton LR-100 electronic support because the Wasp was a pilot-only likely to mean constraints on mission- measures. Alongside the existing range of platform. Although the RNZN is training system operability. its own observers, it has recruited two anti-submarine ordnance, the full-up "The facts are that in view of the short ex-UK Royal Navy observers to provide RNH will also be equipped with the service life of the SH-2F - it will be a near-term capability. AGM-65 Maverick missile for anti-surface retired when the SH-2G enters service - "With a vastly improved range and warfare operations. spare parts and support for the mission endurance over the Wasp, the Seasprite systems will be limited and have to be Following their withdrawal from service, will effectively become the ship's eye in funded from an already overburdened the SH-2Fs will be broken down for the sky. able to search for. track and operating budget." said Cdr Toon. spares. Long-term capital acquisition report any surface contacts up to 100 nm "Careful prioritisation of support and plans, announced after last year's Defence ahead." said Cdr Toon. effort is the essence. It does not Assessment, call for the procurement of a "Its primary role will be as a weapons necessarily follow, therefore, that all of fifth SH-2G in the 2003 to 2005 delivery platform for anti-submarine Four LARC Vs make group approach for a beach landing. the airframes will have all of the timeframe.

PACS 11 PAGE 23 THE NAVY THE NAVY

28 February. 1999. Minimum performance to its impressive gun armament. This gave requirements have called for a cruising IOWA'S LEGACY the BB a long range precision strike speed of 8 knots in water and 50 km/hr capability. Tomahawk could target on land, with a cargo capacity of 4.536kg. airfields. C2 (Command and Control) and operating range of 128 km at sea and THE SURFACE ACTION GROUP nodes, roads, bridges and any sort of war 400km on lind. Occupational Health and sustaining industrial infrastructure or Safety requirements introduced since the politically sensitive vulnerability. The BBs By Mark Schweikert the ascent of the Aircraft Carrier and LARC Vs entered service more than 30 were also fitted to act as flagships, Easier to manoeuvre, cheap, very later the CBG (Carrier Battle Group) years ago. have called for a reduction in providing the necessary C3 (Command. capable and readily available the concept as the centrepiece of naval noise levels to at least 85dBA at the rear Control. Communications) cohesion modern USN Surface Action Group warfare. The employment of the CBG of the vehicles needed. Other weapons which (SAG) will usually be first on the with its flexibility and decisive firepower, perpetuated the SAG came with the As part of the programme. Army also scene when conflict flares. This confirmed the death of the SAG. Since accompanying Cruisers. Destroyers and stipulated that the vehicles existing reflects a greater emphasis and then, a lack of air cover has always been Frigates. Weapons in the form of the long performance on land and in water should responsibility assigned to surface the argument against sending surface range anti-aircraft Standard SM-2ER, not be compromised by the ships over more expensive super ships in harms way without a carrier. ASROC and the LAMPS helicopter all refurbishment, with the craft required to carriers. Surface ships were thus relegated to provided a means for the SAG to act maintain the all important stability in the Recently Australia played host to a patrol work and escort duties. However, independently for limited periods maritime environment. As well, the LARC collection of visiting USN warships but a revolution has occurred in naval warfare depending on the threat. Vs new engine must remain supportable given the lack of an accompanying Aircraft in the areas of C4ISR (Command. Given the IOWA'S new capabilities, and for another 10 years, providing high levels Carrier this visit went un-noticed by the Control. Communications. Computers. advances in ASW and AAW technology, it of craft availability, supportability and media. What they did not realise was that Intelligence. Surveillance and made sense to allow the SAG free run of HMAS MANOORA after refloavng in May. 1998. (Photo - ABPH Damian Pawcenko) minimal downtime. these ships form the backbone of the Reconnaissance) and weapons which has the oceans. A SAG off an enemy shoreline MANOORA. the first of the converted USN and one of the most available and was bound to create as much confusion beached, no longer expected to operate inventory capable of crossing the surf prompted the re-birth of the SAG and LPAs. is currently scheduled to return to deadly ship combinations in history. The and fear as a CBG. It could thus close-in-shore. The original bow ramps line. It will be the first off the LPA. either given it a flexibility previously unheard of. service in early 1999. followed by ships, when operating together, form the supplement a CBG in certain situations have been removed, the bow doors by the port crane or stern gate, to supply The - e-birth of the SAG could be said to KANIMBLA. USN's current SAG. The ships visiting by providing the much-needed visual sealed to provide additional space for the a shore base. It will play a small but in mid year. have its origins in the same war that consisted of a Ticonderoga class Cruiser, confirmation of foreign policy larger flight deck, capable of operating significant part in LPA operations. The After their return to service, the LARC aborted the concept. The 1980s re- an Arhegh Burke class Destroyer, an determination, not to forget a very either Army Chinooks. or storing LCM-8 updated LARC V prototype fit was Vs will be stationed in the Townsville and activation of the WW II Iowa class Improved Spruance class Destroyer, a effective tool of war if called upon. landing craft. required by 30 June. 1988.. with trials Cairns regions. Battleships acted as the catalyst to the re- FFG-07 class Frigate, an Improved Los During 1983/4 the USS NEW JERSEY lead The LARC V is the only piece of completed by 14 September. The next forming of the SAG and gave it a new • * • * Angeles SSN and a support ship. SAG provided televised proof of their equipment - land vehicle - in the defence six vehicles are for delivery by future. Only a Battleship (BB) could During WW II the SAG concept suffered provide public and military legitimacy to value and viability as a supplementary at the hands of emerging land and carrier force by engaging enemy positions in the the SAG concept. With the right escorts, based air power. This was evidenced by hills around Beirut, thus saving the navy which technology was then providing, the the destruction of the US Pacific Fleet's from sending aircraft to attack these SAG could conduct limited independent Battleships at Pearl Harbor, the sinking of positions. This was an important operations even in the face of a moderate the PRINCE OF WALES and REPULSE and demonstration of the SAG's capability air threat.The BB formed the core unit of the sinking of the Japanese YAMATO SAG. given that two A-6 Intruders attacking the the SAG and its reason for existing. Only now is the SAG starting to rise same targets were lost weeks before.The One of the principle tools that helped the up out of the ashes of the WW II IOWA'S could engage targets from stand re-emergence of the IOWA'S, and the experience. off ranges without exposing USN SAG. was the addition of cruise missiles Many would still write off the SAG in favour of the more glamorous CBG (Carrier Battle Group), much the subject of movies and documentaries, but with the US cutting back its carrier numbers more emphasis and reliance will be placed in the SAG to complete an unprecedented array of tasks. Those who write off the modern USN SAG would do so at their peril and possibly not realise how technology has transformed the surface combatant and the tasks that it can now perform. But in order to appreciate the real firepower of the modern SAG one must concentrate on the group as a whole and not as a fragmented collection of individual ships. HISTORY Of the 32 gunned capital ships sunk during WW II. only eight were sunk by Port quarter. HMAS MANOORA Changes made to the ship include a new helicopter hanger and midships superstructure, an enlarged flight their own kind, the rest by aircraft and deck, flying control station, port and starboard quarter sponsons and remodelled stem (and LARC V entrance to the former deck). (Photo - submarines. Air power and Carrier power Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser. USS SAN JACINTO executes a high speed turn. ABPH Damian Pawcenko) advocates used this fact to perpetuate 1996. (USN)

PAGE 24 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY monitor events at incredible ranges TODAY personnel to danger The escorts Iraq from USN surface ships and (quoted as being to the edge of space) is accompanying this mission also engaged Submarines in and around the Gulf. With the USN experiencing a downward an awesome advantage and warning enemy positions whilst still providing This proved the valuable contribution spiral in Aircraft Carrier numbers, and the system for the SAG. During the Gulf war. AAW and ASW defence to the SAG Long that surface ships could make to large- traditional US response to international Ticonderogas' operating in the northern range Tomahawks, anti-aircraft missiles, scale operations in conjunction with situations being maritime, it will have to gulf detected and tracked Iraqi Scuds good ASW defence. NGS (Naval Gunfire CBGs rely on its surface ships and Submarines being launched against Saudi Arabia. More Support) capability and flagship C3 more often than not. This means that But with the decommissioning of the BB recently Aegis ships have been used to facilities ensured the place of the SAG SAGs will have to supplement for the many thought that the surface ship would monitor Syrian and North Korean concept in the new surface warfare CBG in engaging the growing number of go back to its role of CBG escort and ballistic missile tests. domain. hostile international 'bandits'. patrolling. Without the BB forming the Apart from conducting its own The Mk-41 VLS provided a stockpile of The next demonstration of the SAG nucleus and public appeal what was left? independent operations the SAG can pre- ready to fire missiles of any combination, concept came during the 1991 Gulf War. But technology had advanced and during empt the arrival of superior forces and WISCONSIN MISSOURI including cruise. The addition of the Mk- The BBs and the time of the Iowa's re-activated service prepare the battlespace. This could 41 to three of the SAG's ships provided a pounded Iraqi positions with Tomahawks. the Aegis combat system and Mk-41 VLS involve intelligence gathering (either firepower replacement for the IOWA'S. 16-inch and 5-inch HE shells. While the (Vertical Launch System) arrived. These pass've collection or engaging the enemy The SAG concept thus remained a part of two BBs. and their escorts, conducted two advances in naval warfare gave the to fight for it), ASW sanitisation, cruise the USN's maritime response despite the NGS operations off Kuwait they were SAG a new sting and viability. missile strikes on vital air bases. SAM sites decommissioning of the BBs. The Mk-41 fired on by an enemy shore based or military installations, fixing an enemy's Aegis provided a computer based VLS's adaptability is the key :o the current 'Silkworm' ASM (anti-ship missile) position or as a taste for what is to come. command/decision combat system to SAG. Depending on the mission, the ships Fortunately an escorting RN Destroyer A SAG preparing the battle space also counter threats from surface, sub-surface can embark any kind of missile needed for shot the missile down. This action was gives the follow up force the ability to and air simultaneously. Coupled with the the task in any combination. Much like a insignificant to the operation but bears data link into the AO in real time via mention for the fact that since the four megawatt SPY-1 radar system, it golf bag contains different clubs for satellite. Preparing the battlespace is Spruance class destroyer. USS KINCADE. (USN) could detect and track over 300 airborne specific needs depending on the course. Falklands conflict the ASM was expected important if the follow up naval forces are to have the same effect on the SAG as targets and engage them automatically Alternately the VLS could employ one to fight through it. such is the case with and the SSN JEFFERSON CITY. None of War. The VLS is so flexible that the aircraft did during WW II. using any ship in the group, conduct IFF missile exclusively as the USS SAN joint or amphibious operations. the ships were specifically equipped or Improved Spruance class Destroyer in the During the Gulf War a total of 288 and maintain data exchanges with other JACINTO (CG-56) did with cruise missiles When viewed as a combined force the employed for these specific missions SAG can carry and fire Standard SM-2MR Tomahawk cruise missile were fired at ships. The SPY-Is ability to scan and during the Gulf War. current USN SAG is indeed a powerful before taking up station in the Gulf and missiles for designation by the Aegis and exceptionally flexible group. Usually it fired what they normally carry. Since then equipped ships. This means that when consists of a Ticonderoga class Cruiser for SAG's have fired on targets in Bosnia and deliberately going into a hostile air command and control of the group and as Iraq at short notice and with good results. environment the SAGs total VLS capacity an anti-air warfare specialist. An Arleigh Individually the ships of the SAG are could be up to 278 anti-aircraft Burke class Destroyer for strike warfare impressive surface combatants. When Standards, assuming that one missile type command, secondary SAG leader and compared together the statistics are even was used exclusively (this does not take anti-air warfare. An Improved Spruance more impressive. into account the SM-IMR and Sea class Destroyer for strike missions and Sparrow missiles of the FFG and ASW An FFG-07 class Frigate for AAW SAG firepower; Spruance). Not many countries have air and ASW. An Improved Los Angeles class • 278 VLS cells (plus 12 in SSN for forces to throw against this sort of SSN for scouting, intelligence gathering. Tomahawk only). firepower. ASW ASuW and strike and a fleet • 2 Aegis combat systems. support ship for sustainability in the • 2 SPY-1 Radar fitted ships. CONCLUSION combat zone. • 3 air search radars. Since the end of the cold war SAG • 4 surface search radars. operations have been common and The tasks and roles this combined surface • 28 RGM-84 Harpoon missiles (Sub- although the technology behind the team can complete are amazing, Harpoon carried by SSN not included). modern SAG looks like its replacing the everything from CBG re-enforcement, • 5 127 mm Naval guns. Aircraft Carrier, sadly it cannot. Despite merchant fleet escort, sanctions • 7 Phalanx CIWS. the near 278 anti-aircraft weapons it enforcement. NGS. strike missions. C4ISR • I Mk-13 launcher for 36 Standard could theoretically embark, plus the 36 and flag showing. Some of the key SM-IMR. SM-IMR from the FFG and Sea Sparrow elements in the concept include; • I Octuple Sea Sparrow for point form the Spruance. it suffers from not interoperability with each other in defence. 8 missiles plus reloads. being able to engage attacking aircraft machinery, weapons, systems and • 5 SH-60 ASW/OTHT Seahawks. before they launch their anti-ship missiles (due to the curvature of the earth). electronics. Aegis, battle group C4ISR. • 5 passive towed array sonars. However, the USN is experimenting a large volume of missiles and availability • 20 324 mm torpedo tubes for Mk-46 way to do just that. over CBGs. to mention a few. torpedoes. • 4 533 mm torpedo tubes for 26 Mk-48 The flexibility and combat power of There is currently a program investigating torpedoes. Sub-Harpoons and or modern independently operational USN ways of engaging hostile air threats irom cruise missiles. SAG was tested in September 1996 when beyond missile release point The CEC a patrolling SAG in the Persian Gulf fired In order to appreciate how many missiles (Co-operative Engagement Capability) its Tomahawks at targets in Iraq on two the SAG has at its disposal, if all Mk-41 program is experimenting ways to enable separate occasions within days of each VLSs and Submarine VL tubes were units to fire on air threats and have a other. The ships were the Ticonderoga loaded to fire cruise missiles they would secondary source illuminate the target. SHILOH. the Arleigh Burke s LABOON and have more missiles dian what was fired at Recently a Ticonderoga. involved in the RUSSELL the Improved Spruance Hewitt Iraq during the entire duration of the Gulf CEC program, successfully shot down a Refuelling operations for the Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer USS MITSCHER. (USN)

PAGE 26 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY Prior to her service as the training ship TINGIRA with the RAN. SOBRAON was utilised as reform school ship. TINGIRA (SOBRAON) moored in the upper reaches of Sydney Harbour, near Cockatoo Island. of the ship's staff and young boys attached to Some Early Scenes Some SOBRAON. Note the ship's dog in the foreground. School work below decks. •PIPWr^— The young boys are being taught by instructors from the Department of Public j j ^ r Instruction. Following their time aboard SOBRAON. the vr OV T "V boys were placed in a job or V trade ashore. \ * V V * r~ ^ o ' •V m «- v'

* Jr * h

The entire ship's complement parade on the upper deck, with the ship's band Los Angeles class fast attack submarine, part of the SAG. (USN) to the left and guard, upper left . sea-skimming drone from a position sub is still an elusive and threatening The USN's future goal for the SAG is "an which it was unable to see or detect it. weapon to the SAG's dominance of the offensive maritime force that conducts The Aegis Cruiser fired on information it littoral. precision land attack and theatre air received from a secondary source with a Many of the worlds super bandits' will dominance as part of joint, allied, and land-based illuminator tracking the drone challenge US regional influence in their coalition forces". The new DD-21. and facilitating the kill.This advance could littorals by attacking patrolling USN SAGs. together with Aegis equipped go some of the way to ensuring that a The SAG is certainly capable of defending Ticonderogas and Arleigh Burkes, will SAGs missile magazines are not itself and inflicting damage but the soon be able to establish theatre air exhausted firing at anti-ship missiles realisation, practice and technology of dominance over the battle space with a rather than the launch platforms, which fighting hurt' will have to be developed if new Patriot style anti-ballistic missile incidentally are re-useable and harder to the group is to remain in the littoral battle defence system based on the current replace. However, the secondary detection space, which the enemy will initially have Standard SM-2MR and illumination source will have to be control of. until re-enforcement's arrive. developed. This could be a helicopter. Further, in a shooting war the SAG will Other advances for the SAG includes a AEW&C aircraft or even a blimp but have to be relived sooner than a CBG as range of precision guided weapons for there is still a long way to go yet. its missile stocks dwindle. Another SAG land attack out to 1500 miles. NGS and Another vulnerability of the SAG involves will have to take up were the last left off land attack capabilities being studied its major domain, the littoral. During the immediately in order to sustain offensive include a naval version of the US army Gulf War the littoral environment operations or maintain the momentum. TACMS (TACtical Missile System, a large demonstrated its potential for This would require many SAGs to achieve TRIPOLI surface to surface missile carrying 950 destruction when the ships as one draw back of the VLS is its inability PRINCETON anti-personnel bomblets over 170 km). (LPH-10) and (CG-59) hit to be reloaded at sea. However, for limited An Extended Range Guided Munition Iraqi mines. Until the accuracy of the periods and in many cases, a SAG can cruise missile, its range and lethality are supplement an expensive and large CBG. (ERGM) fired from a modified Mk-45 gun * M •1 r- ';l,-•U• mm' increased significantly the SAG will always The future of the SAG and the surface and a 155 mm naval gun in either a have to operate in the littoral combatant is looking bright.The new DD- standard turret form or vertical environment to engage targets inland. 21 land attack Destroyer, being designed launched/mounted form. 1 >• This is significant given that 80% of the for the USN. will alleviate some of the The SAG will certainly become a part of m • ; i »f f world's nations have littoral borders. missile supply problems by providing future history as the Aircraft Carrier Another deck scene; the band After classes, the accommodation Diesel-electric submarines have always • 1 *-y . more ready to use missiles. The CEC already has. As the cost and complexity ploys on the poop, as other ; i •>./ i deck was filled with hammocks. called the littorals their home and to a program will help in one key area of SAG of the USN CBG rise the SAG will youngsters practice their navy use to hunting SSNs in deep water vulnerability and advances in mine m increasingly take over in many of the physical training skills. this becomes an unknown and dangerous countermeasures and shallow water ^ 4t li worlds trouble spots as a show and foe. Currently the USN is in the process ASW will hopefully give the SAG the of re-tuning their ASW sonars for hunting overwhelming influence it needs in an instrument of US foreign policy m |i \ V in the shallow water environment found enemy littoral. determination. Naval warfare is about to B 1 in littorals. But even so the small diesel become more dynamic. Stay tuned! Cutlass drill on the upper deck of the school ship.

PAGF 28 PAGF 29 THE NAVY THE NAVY To produce such a monumental work, the amount of general and technical section has improved greatly over the 'THE OLD NAVY' HMAS ANZAC editor has secured the services of over information. In recent years.Janes appears past years, with the release of valuable 100 naval experts worldwide, providing to have reduced its amount of new and updated data on the former RECEIVES both up-to-date information and data, as information, while Combat Fleets, grows Soviet era warships and auxiliaries, ? WHAT IS AN ...EM ? well as the all important variety of with each edition. One particular part of obtained from both official and private The 'What is a ... ' navy people senes was NATIONAL AWARD illustrations. The book describes one the United States of America section sources. Generally speaking, each page of originally written in the late 1950s. The set V\ y hundred and eighty countries and which this reviewer likes to keep up to the 1998-99 edition of Combat Fleets will be re-produced in 'The Navy' during territories, including the numerous coast date with is the Military Sealift Command 'bulges' with new data and general The Governor of Western Australia. His 1998 guards, major marine water police forces or MSC. Combat Fleets devotes over commentary, even the recently retired, Excellency Major General Michael Jeffery decommissioned or sold ships are given An EM is an Electrical Mechanic and and customs services. Army and Air Force 18 pages to the MSC. while Janes covers AC MC. presented the Royal Australian knows all about electricity, ohms, watts, Marine sections. due credit to complete the story of ANZAC the ships in just under a half that number. currents, and shocks. (NOTE:The "shock" Navy frigate HMAS with the Navy their naval careers, via disposal or sale Mr. Baker has now been editing Combat The naval air arm and armament/ comes when an electrical item works League of Australia Perpetual Trophy in an BOOK details. Fleets since 1978. each edition growing in electronic sections are a book within again, following repair by an EM). onboard ceremony on Monday. May 4 themselves, negating the need for the A number of years ago I wrote about an The EM carries a little black bag with him Accepting the award was the scope and size from its original French reader to refer to other annuals. Aircraft earlier edition of Combat Fleets of the everywhere he goes, looking quite like a commanding officer of HMAS ANZAC. ancestor. After service as an officer in the doctor on his way to make a delivery.This Captain Marc Bonser. CSC. RAN on USN from 1963 to 1967 and as a civilian included range from the carrier based World. 'By far the most impressive book bag holds all an EM needs for his day's behalf of the ship's company. REVIEWS with the Department of the Navy from front line combat machines, through to of its type available and an automatic cigarettes, matches, pencils, sweat rags, HMAS ANZAC won this community 1967 to 1997. Mr. Baker, can proudly boast land based patrol aircraft, trainers and selection for any naval enthusiast or tombola tickets, and such sentimental award for 1997 from fierce competition of his current editorial achievement, as helicopters. Squadrons and numbers held professional who needs accurate and up- items as the first fuse he pulled, and a from other Fleet units and shore COMBAT FLEETS OF the result of nearly forty years of study are listed, plus new designs on the to-date information...'. Nothing has piece of wire used in short circuiting the establishments from around Australia. into the world's navies. Today, in 1998. drawing boards for future use with the air changed! main switchboard. The bag can also be ANZAC's win sees the prestigious shield THE WORLD Combat Fleets can rightly claim its place war at sea. used during the day as a pillow. A CD-ROM version of Combat Fleets is remain in the west as HMAS STIRLING Edited by: A. D. Baker III on thousands of bookshelves around the Whenever the EM on duty at the main But more than anything else. Combat also available for US $ 129.95 for use with won the trophy in 1996. world, from leading libraries, through to switchboard feels lonely he blacks out a Published by: The United States Naval Fleets, is a good read, the whole book set Microsoft Windows 3.1 or newer ANZACs nomination was for her heavy academics and naval enthusiasts and the section of the ship so that he will receive Institute (Email address: out in an 'easy to use' two column format, systems. involvement with the Albany Children's all important youngsters, just interested some phone calls. This occupies him for [email protected]) most photographs a half or full page Cancer Care Group, the ship's adopted in reading and researching about the Combat Fleets of the World (the book) is most of his watch. No matter how Reviewed by: Ross Gillett width, the technical line drawings provided Senior Service'. available direct from its publisher, the carefully you may gather the details of charity. In an extraordinary effort since Combat Fleets of the World 1998-99. Their with a key numbering system to identify some electrical fault and have it the ship's commissioning in May, 1996 United States Naval Institute for US $ 150 Ships. Aircraft and Systems is a much As the sub-title suggests. Combat Fleets of the important armament and fittings. A registered, the EM at the main more than $8000 was raised in 12 plus post and packing (refer e-mail the Wodd totally new format for the book presents switchboard is able to: months for the charity. welcome addition to the range of naval includes sections on the naval address above). For such a small the ships and craft classes in a consistent This money was raised through literature currently available to the naval air arms and shipboard armament, investment, the naval enthusiast can invest order, from new to old within each type. 1. forget about it; innovative fund raising activities including book market. electronics and future ship construction in a truly remarkable piece of warship It would be impossible tc highlight the 2. repair something else; a sponsored "Shave off" which saw 60 In one volume, the editor. A. D. Baker III. programs. The main difference between literature. has provided readers with one Combat Fleets and the historically vast amount of new information in the 3. say that the Naval Store does not have people go under the clippers from the authoritative naval reference book. The popular Janes, is the former's greater 1998-99 volume. However the Russian the spares; or previous commanding officer down to one thousand two hundred and twenty 4. say."just going to ..." male and female sailors. pages, including 4.600 photographs and Amongst the guests at the presentation ARK ROYAL In the tropics the EM really makes the 150 line drawings, is highlighted by well researched and lengthy caption, carrier and minesweeper were Commodore Fleet Bases. THE ROYAL NAVY HUBBERSTON. fullest use of his fine and intensive detailed descriptions of the individual outlining a brief ship career, including its Another interesting photo Commodore Paul Kable; National Battle training. He manages to be able to ships and classes, making Combat Fleets, IN FOCUS 1970-79 final fate. is the converted class destroyer effectively reduce the amount of cold air President of the Navy League of Australia. MATAPAN, the most comprehensive naval reference For the first time, colour is included as a modified for use as a trials ship passing through the fens, thus overheating Commander Graham Harris; Mr Arthur By. LCDR Ben Warlow RN book currently available to the naval special 16 page supplement, with a total in 1973. a compartment and causing the and Mrs Gwen Hewitt, WA State Published by: Maritime Books market. of 18 colour and 143 black and white B5 The Royal Navy in Focus 1970-79 is occupants to sweat. In cold places President and Secretary of the Navy (e-mail [email protected]) size photographs included. Some of the available direct from Maritime Books. Full however, the EM is equally able to League; Mrs Annette Knight (and husband Reviewed by: Ross Gillett finer images depict Royal Navy ships in details of all of their naval book' increase the flow, thus causing the Tom), previously the Mayor of the Town rough sea conditions, including the occupants to freeze. The eighth of the 'In Focus' pictorial are available on the web at; of Albany, Mrs June Hodgson and Ms Val ARETHUSA BACCHANTE. The Royal frigates and http://members.aol.com/marbooks/ Another exacting duty the EM has to Chisholm. President and Secretary of the COMBAT FLEETS books from Maritime Books, Navy in Focus 1970-79 is now available. perform is known as the "fuse pull". This Albany Children's Cancer Care Group. OF THE WORLD 1998-1999 duty is invariably carried out just at the The new work is a follow-on from the crucial moment. Just as you get to the bit earlier 1930-39. 1940-49. 1950-59. 1960- where John has taken Eva to the river Their Ships 69 and World War II and two special editions. bank, and the two are laying down - "fuse flircrall pull" - all you see are dots. For many readers, the years 1970-79 may and (NOTE: If the ventilating EM is ever not seem to long ago. but the vintages of required he can be found on the GDP - Systems ships depicted between the covers, will ventilating.) still bring back many memories for A more obscure Electrical Mechanic is former naval personnel. Some of the known as the Romeo EM.This type is rare older ships still operating in the seventies and is usually radioactively engaged on included the 1944 vintage destroyer CAPRICE, GRENVILLE, building television sets and car radios. Litde the 1943 frigate the The Governor of Western Australia. Major 1938 MAIDSTONE and the repair ship is actually known of this type although i one or two have been seen entering and General Michael Jeffery. presents the Navy HARTLAND POINT from 1945. Each of the A 0 Baker III leaving compartments in the ship. It is League Shield to Captain Marc Bonser. illustrations is accompanied by a thought they may have had a "ping". Commanding Officer. HMAS ANZAC

PAGE 30 PAGE 31 THE NAVY THE NAVY FLAG 4 To all those who enjoy reading history statements made and conclusions Flag 4 is a must. If Tom Clancy were a reached by the author. It is easily read By: Dudley Pope historian, this is the book he would have and well illustrated with photographs of Published by: Chatham Publishing written. ships. Reviewed by:Joe Straczek All the navies had as their genesis vessels Most people are familiar with the naval of the Royal Navy or rather, what had war in the Mediterranean. Names such as NO EASY ANSWERS been the Royal Indian Navy and their Taranto. Matapan and Cape Spada bring The Development of the Navies of development was largely influenced by forth vivid pictures of aircraft carriers, India and Pakistan. Bangladesh and their dislike or fear of one another or. in battle ships and cruisers engaged in a Sri Lanka 1945 - 1996 the case of Ceylon/Sri Lanka, by the desperate struggle for naval supremacy. By: James Goldrick problems of militant minorities and the Less well known are the exploits of the incursion of Tamils from the Southern Published by: Lancer Publishers with the smaller craft, the submarines, mine India province of Tamil Nadu. support of the Royal Australian Navy warfare craft, MTBs and MLs. It is the Not surprising the new navies were at Maritime Studies Program activities of this last group, MTBs and first orientated towards the Western Flag 4. MLs. which are covered in Pr,ce: S28 00 powers especially Britain, but faced at Flag 4 covers the role of these small Reviewed by: Geoffrey Evans time by uncooperative attitudes by these wooden craft and their daring crews from This book, a treatise by James Goldrick. a powers turned towards the USSR. India in the desperate evacuation of Tobruk serving officer in the RAN. is timely given particular became adept in terms of through daring attacks on enemy convoys the uproar following India's decision to equipment at taking the best of what each and finally covert operations in along the continue nuclear testing in May. It will be sides had to offer. Eventually Britain, the Yugoslavian coast. Dudley Pope's book of interest to anyone interested in the United States. France. Russia. China. read like an adventure story. But what rather tortured politics of the new Norway and Israel were among the makes this adventure story more nations created as a result of partition of powers bidding to supply ships and readable and interesting, is that the events the Indian subcontinent in 1947 and equipment to one or another of the portrayed are factual not the concoction Ceylon's independence in the same year, South Asian nations. of a Hollywood scriptwriter. as well as to those interested in navies No Easy Answers is a book well worth Flag 4 is also the story of men engaged in and maritime affairs. reading and will be a most useful a life and death struggle for survival. Unlike Divided into nine chapters - a preamble, reference tool for all those interested their larger counterparts, these small and two each for India and Pakistan, one for in a restless and very important part flimsy craft offered no protection each of the other three and a summary of the world, a part moreover where whatsoever to their crews. Survival reflecting on fifty years following partition events will surely influence Australia's depended on the skill and determination - the book has a very large number of future. of the crews and a good deal of luck. notations quoting the source of

After a number of years service as a tourist submarine with the Australian National Maritime Museum, the former Soviet Navy Foxtrot class submarine was removed from her Pyrmont berth, alongside ex HMAS VAMPIRE The submarine was shifted to Cockatoo Island before being towed to the USA for further use as display. (Photo - B. Morrison)

PAGE 32 HMAS WESTRALIA, under (oW of civilian tugs after her onboard fire in May. 1998 Four crew members lost their lives in the tragedy An RAN S- 706-2 helicopter hovers aboy* the aft flightdeck to drop-off rescue personnel /Photo • RAN) OCTOBER-DECEMBER 1998 VOLUME 60 NO.4 $3.50 Ld sThe Magazin e of the Navy League of Australia

fir1 THE NAVY

dedication of a new FAA Monument. In VIEWPOINT other aviation news, this edition of The Navy magazine includes reports from the Super Seasprite project and plans in the This edition of The Navy marks the USA to preserve the veteran aircraft anniversary of both the Royal Australian carrier USS MIDWAY, which visited Sydney Navy (87 years) and the Fleet Air Arm (50 for the last time in 1987. years). Other reports discuss the decision not to For the Fleet, the Navy will celebrate the acquire the four Kidd class guided missile former with a major open day at the Fleet destroyers from the United States and an Base East in Sydney on Sunday. 11 Tlie ADf l Inter-Service Cooperation 3 interview with Commodore Flotillas October. Five surface combatants (one RIMPAC 98 II (RAN) regarding the recent RIMPAC 98 The Fleet Air Ann Celebrates SO Yean IS destroyer and two frigates), the veteran exercise. Pictorially. we look at the Naval The Kidds. Opportunity only knocks— 18 submarine ONSLOW and the landing Review held in the Philippines, with many Oceera Governance and Maritime Strategy 23 ship TOBRUK will be available for Second World War, ey4JSN warships, still Super Seasprite 24 inspection. To promote 50 years of the surviving in fcpnt the Navy Week 96 Fleet Air Arm. four examples of current — Sydney Programme and Map 28 day helicopters will also be on hand, host navy. Naval Review - The Philippines 29 parked on the wharfside for all family Savlr* the MIDWAY 31 members. What Is .Scores Assistant) 32

A major Air Day is also scheduled for Ross Gillett HMAS ALBATROSS at Nowra on Sunday. I REGULAR FEATURES November. The previous day, the Fleet Air Arm will celebrate with a Freedom of The opinions or auertioifalqfi<djFi Navy are Viewpoint I Entry Parade through Nowra. including an those of the authors end are not^tt^arm those of the From Our Readers 2 RAN Historic Flight flypast.The Sunday Air Federal Council of the Navy League of Australia, the Naval News 5 Day will begin from 1030. preceded by the Editor of The Navy or the Royal Austmhan Navy Observations 14 The Old Navy 32 Book Reviews 33 Corporate Members The Navy League of THE AUSTRALIAN SHIPOWNERS' ASSOCIATION COMPUTER SCIENCES OF AUSTRALIA

PTY LTD AUSTRALISOUTH AUSTRALIAAN DIVISIO N FEDERAL COUNCR. BTR AEROSPACE AUSTRALIA PatronhCMatl Patron: Fte FxceAency The Go«nw at South Ksnla. Pnem Afan Pntaa RFQ1S Stop. Hi Dthe. HAWKER DE HAVILLAND LIMITED : Gretwn M Ftamj. RTO : RADMAJ Robertson 4Q DSC RAN hnorama SA504I. ROCKWELL SYSTEMS AUSTRALIA (Rid) Join Brt. CORE HJP Adarm AM. RAN (Rtd) Hon.Secretary: hbJEGt GPO Bn IS29. Add-* PTY LTD CAPTHA. jOMptv, AMRAN (Red) SA 5001. Tdepnonr (0B) 8347 1985 Hon. Secretary: Don Sdnpd.RO Bo IJS.VMxrf*. STRANG INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD SA 5011 -Undone (08) 8347 1985 Fa* (08) 8347 3256 Patron: Hb Cxctfcncy The Gownorof "Esnrai NEW SOUTH WALES DIVISION The Navy Preddent ML Coopw.OAnQfW Patron: Ne* He Excafcncy.The Gowncr a/ South Hon. Secretary: Mn JM Coops-. 42Any Rood All Letters to the Editor and contributions to: lauKeHon Tat 72SO HMo* exile* (03) 6344 IS3I. The Editor. Ross Gillett t R OAKmh. AM.RFORD 4 Dela Close. Hon. Secretary:) CJ)tpp»«i.aAM.RFnGPOBe* Dewmport R 01a*> 11 "6ewi ftee Dewnport. Dee Why. NSW. 2099 !7l9.SyA*yNSW 1043 las 7310 Tefcphonc (03) 6434 5064 ^eiephone (02) 9570 8425 Fax (02) 9232 8383 bifcCDK 40 Cherry Sueet.BuTM.las 7320 Subscriptions and Membership VICTOMAH DIVISION —- IHephone (03) 6431 4023. All magazine subscriptions and membership Patron: Hb Excdcncy. The Governor of Victors. Lamceattat hks | M. Cooper. enquiries to: PmkfcneJMWlMRro' WESTON AUSTRALIAN DIVISION GOMCTOOT The Hon Secretary. Hon. Secretary TEKiurn.MBE.VWr.POta. 1303 PbiUL Hb Cxccfcncy The of VSfcnem NSW Division. Bat Hi Dehery Centre VIC 3128 AHHe^tf Navy League of Australia. Telephone and Fax (03) 9560 9927 QUEB4SLAND DIVISION Hon. Secrewy: Mn G HeMtt. 23 Lanier Read GPO Box 1719. Anadde-WA TekfTnne Patron: Ho Exralency The Gonemor of Quearafcnd 6156 (0B) 9330 3600 Sydney. NSW. 1043 Plcakfae. IM Fraser.OAK GcriMtan: E BedwAK 2 Pccchd Street. RvpMfi WA National Email address: Hon. Secretary: RDfaAmRfQ CO BCK 170 6530 Tekphone(08) 9921 3768(H) (08) 9921 1X0(8) [email protected] 0*»rxl Qld 4183 Ttfcphone (07) 3345 2174 Afceny: D Brar. Lot 46 Frederldi Street GMmtdi Internet Home pages for Federal and State Caere A Gmmeen PO 8oc 1009. Cain* Qld 4870 Abar^ WA 6330 V^honefOB) 9841 6541 Divisions: FHIStAL ADVISORY COUNOL -Mephone (07) 4054 1195 URLhttp://www.netspace.neLau/~navyleag Tuwnev«e: I McDo^lPOBtx l478.Tc»nsv«e.QU F Geotay Evans. OBE-VRCtOaenen Nel Bard. Chairman Bard Pubbcaoons Front cover: The Royal Australian Navy's new 4810 Telephone: (07) 4772 4588 Macfcay: Wm. Boidxx AM. Minehunter Coastal (MHC) HUON during trials K MfeerdPO Best 5527. Qld 4741. Telephone (07) 4942 1965. Atharal rtdedWHufcav AC RAN (Rid) off Newcasde in July. 1998. Bundaber^ I LoteePO Bo* SI4l,Bunttaber^ WtacQta Vke ArMal Deed laath. AC C8E. LWOl RANffl (Photo - Naval Photo Unit) 4670. Teleftane (07) 4151 2210. VkeAAreal Sir Richard FWtKBE.CS. DSC RAN (Rid) SouthporelVFoo °0 Ba, 944 Soudvoa Qtd 4215 john Strang, Charman Strang International Pty Ltd Copy deadline for the next edition is TMtphone (07) 5532 2447 9 November 1998.

PAGE I THE NAVY THE NAVY commencement of our new Patrol Boat construction programme here in WA. I THE ADF & INTER-SERVICE enclose details of the craft now being constructed by Austal Ships at their yards south of Fremantle WA. CO-OPERATION Rxhard Coleman | DARLINGTON WA 6070 By Navy Leaguer Between the RAAF and the Australian These changes have resulted in the Army, relations were at a low when it was establishment of operational joint service As a Navy League member of many years Inter^Service cooperation in the decided that the newly ordered Black commands, such as Northern Command, standing and always look forward to Patrol Vessels Australian Defence Force has The Navy. achieved various levels of effectiveness Hawk troop lift helicopters would be and the establishment of the post of receiving my copies of Dear Sir Commander Australian Theatre. Additional Whilst I have never served under the and ineffectiveness in the past. manned and operated by the Australian had First and foremost. I would like to Army. The RAAF managed the acquisition joint force commands have been White Ensign I have an interest in In general, the three Services have congratulate you on the excellent of the aircraft for the Army. established temporarily for particular things naval since childhood, having grown cooperated effectively at the operating level publication The Navy. operations and excercises. up with a step father who |Oined the Are any fellow readers able to assist me in the field, those who have to fight together Some years earlier, the decision that the RAN in September 1939 and who had a with information regarding to WW2 train for that so to the best of their ability, RAN would man and operate the Within the Department of Defence, a tri- very interesting time serving on a number Patrol Vessels (particularly US PTs & regardless of the colour of their uniform. Balikpapan class heavy landing craft service organisation has been established of ships and in a number of theatres British MTBs) that still maybe in The nearer the need for cooperation and (originally ordered for the Army) was to manage the key functional areas. These throughout the War existence here in Australia. understanding get to the major equipment deeply resented by many in the Army. range from personnel through intelligence I have been an amateur military historian I have particular interest in obtaining and force structure decision levels, the and strategic planning to force structure. It Each of these issues clouded relations since my early teens and a member of the a motor from one of these vessels, greater become the difficulties and is in the latter case that the friction can between the Services involved for many Naval Historical Society since the sixties. namely a Packard unit, to transfer disagreements. At these levels, the Public become particularly damaging. It is necessary years afterwards. I have had a lot to do with the RAN this information on to a friend Service has become involved. Each of the to stay the right side of the fine line between the professional debate necessary during my twenty odd years in the who is requiring it for an upcoming four groupings in Defence, the three In recent years, strenuous efforts have been Australian Customs Service, also a proud to ensure that all factors involved in a project. individual Services and the Public Service, made by successive Defence Ministers. service with a direct line of descent from key decision are considered and the have participated in decision making and Chiefs of the Defence Force and the British Royal Charter of AD 732. If any reader can assist me with Reader Dennis Ford sent in this old counter productive effects of destructive debate, often with one eye on the sectional Secretaries of the Department of Defence It is in my capacity as a member that I information. I can be contacted on photograph of a navy diver. He asked when criticism. interests of their grouping. to reduce inter-service stresses and to enclose some material, which although 03 9484 9498. and where the photograph was taken. Can Relations between the RAN and the RAAF ensure that the three Services operate and not strictly Navy, could be of interest to M.AHandreck any former members of the Clearance In recent times, many key force structure were at a low at the time of the decision to train to fight as one Australian Defence issues have enjoyed the support of all many of your readers. With the PRESTON VIC 3072 Diving Teams assist? acquire the F/A-18A/B tactical fighter force Force, with the added objective of achieving Services, the acquisition of an airborne and to abolish the fixed wing Fleet Air Arm. the maximum value for the defence dollar. early warning and control aircraft is an

^AUSTAL SHIPS

General arrangement plans of the new LPAs, HMA Ships MANOORA and KANIMBLA. (Courtesy Naval Engineering Services) 35.0m CUSTOMS PATROL VESSEL

Design of the 35.0m customs patrol vessel, to be built in Western Australia.

PAGE 2 PAGE 3 THE NAVY THE NAVY

example The acquisitions of light tactical The need for all of these pro|ects. in some maintain an independent air force with The Western Australian public were given The PWC asked Defence to examine an transports to succeed the Caribous are form or other, can be argued strongly on regional credibility as a fighting force. one last opportunity to look over the option that provides for separate another, where the RAAF will acquire, man the grounds of the maintenance of the Another is the successor to the RAN's ship when she held an Open Day. six days locations for the explosive ordnance and operate the new aircraft Ninety per nation's independent position in a region Adelaide class frigates. The RAN and many before she left the Fleet. import and Navy's ammunitioning cent of their cargoes will be carried for growing not only in economic but also others regard the operation of a substantial Built at the Cockatoo Island Dockyard, functions. The report cited the PWC's concern at the distance of Point Wilson in the Army. technological strength. Australia has major surface combatant force as essential Sydney and commissioned on January 19, 1971 the 2750 tonne TORRENS has been Victoria, where ordnance is imported, However, the impending ADF block survived in defence terms through its for an Australian maritime force with from Navy's Fleet Base in Sydney and the obsolescence problem will test the ability technological edge That edge is being regional credibility. based in Western Australia since 1991 Navy's exercise area in waters adjacent to of the Department of Defence to work eroded. We must redouble our defence and has steamed in excess of 800,000 One opportunity that must not be Jervis Bay. together in the best interests of the effort to maintain this technological edge nautical miles in her lengthy career. foregone is that of arming our "platforms", TORRENS River country. There are those who argue that an increase was the last of the six Because the requirement for the the ships, submarines, military units and in the defence budget is necessary. class destroyer escorts which have ammunitioning of ships no longer During the next decade, decisions will be aircraft to their maximum capability. However, no Australian Government could served Australia so well over the past 38 includes ammunition storage facilities, necessary on whether and how to replace Examples include providing the RAN's accept this without rigorous examination It years. Anti-submarine ships, two of them. Defence has begun feasibility, cost and the RAAF's Tactical Fighter Force (F/A- surface combatants and submarines with GAWLER BACK ON THE will be tempting to allocate funds on a DERWENT and SWAN, still serve the environmental assessment studies of a I8A/B strike fighters), strike and surgical strike land attack missiles and the priority basis, allowing some capabilities to JOB community in other roles. DERWENT was site at Twofold Bay, on the NSW south reconnaissance group (F-1 lis and RAAF's strike fighters with effective and east coast. This area was previously lapse not as the result of a conscious GAWLER scutded west of Rottnest Island in 1994 modifications thereof) and maritime patrol modern "beyond visual range" air to air HMAS is back at sea (August decision but as a particular successor after a series of survivability tests and excluded on the grounds of cost involved group (AP-3C Orions).A decision will also missiles. 1998) after eight months' repair and protect is repeatedly delayed until the today is a very successful fish attraction in relocating part of the woodchipping be necessary on successors to the RAN's maintenance in a Darwin shipyard. existing capability is no longer effective Both RAAF and RAN needs are essential to device. SWAN was scutded as a dive facility established there. when Adelaide class FFG7 surface combatants. GAWLER was damaged last year when the Another temptation will be to modify the maintenance of a balanced Australian wreck off Dunsborough late last year and ammunition storage, and the associated Darwin naval base synchrolift failed. The All of these projects will involve multi- threat assessments to reduce the Defence Force offering the Australian is proving a most popular tourist security precautions, was part of the Navy took the opportunity while she was requirement billion dollar purchases. expenditure necessary to meet them Government a range of options in meeting attraction. Of the others, the formerly under repair to carry out major planned Inevitably, these decision making processes a wide variety of threat levels and WA-based STUART was scrapped as were There are a number of smaller, but none maintenance that had been scheduled for As Twofold Bay cannot accommodate the will strain inter-service relations. These requirements to participate in international PARRAMATTA an * YARRA. the less expensive - prospective purchases. 1998 EO import function, the PWC has asked These include successors to the C-I30H have to be overcome without the bad peace keeping and natural disaster There has been no decision made Defence to examine the potential for use Total cost of the repair was $1.2 million, TORRENS Hercules and Boeing 707 transport and air aspects of the ma|or historical decisions operations. on the future of after of Port Alma near Rockhampton. most of which has been spent in the to air refuelling aircraft fleet support ships, listed earlier in this article. The key to success is making the right decommissioning. The Navy's ammunitioning operation in Darwin area, either with Darwin Ship mid-life updates for the Collins class Particular areas are the tactical fighter and decisions in selecting the most suitable and Sydney Harbour will close by the end of Repair and Engineering at Francis Bay or submarines, successors to the Army's strike aircraft replacements (regarded by 1999 and it is intended that the current cost effective equipment available to with associated contractors. Leopard tanks and a number of others. the RAAF and many others as essential to provide the balanced force. Point Wilson Facility will be used as an GAWLER conducted sea trials and related interim arrangement until alternate activities for the remainder of August facilities are identified. before her operational assessment in September The boat then deployed to South East Asia until November when she ANZAC SHIP UPGRADE recommenced regular patrol in North Australian waters. MOVES FORWARD The Minister for Defence. Mr Ian Mclachlan.has announced the release of a HMAS TORRENS Request for Proposals to upgrade the Royal Australian Navy's ANZAC class RETURNS FOR LAST frigates under Project SEA 1443 Anzac TIME Warfighting Improvement Program. The request was issued to four The River class destroyer escort HMAS companies: ADI Limited, the Australian TORRENS (DE-53) berth at HMAS Submarine Corporation Pty Ltd. British STIRLING at 10am on Friday. August 14 at Aerospace Australia Limited, and Tenix the return from her final operational Defence Systems. deployment before decommissioning. TORRENS had been absent from Western Two views of the final arrival of HMAS "This project contrasts with the flawed Australia for three months, during which TORRENS in Sydney. (Brian Morrison) approach of the previous Government time she visited . Manila, San which launched the ANZAC Ship Project with the vessels fitted "for but not with" Fernando. Hong Kong. Singapore. DEFENCE Sandakan, Ambon and Port Moresby. essential sensors and weapons systems." Mr McLachlan said. Enroute to Stirling she also paid farewell AMMUNITIONING visits to Newcasde. Sydney. Melbourne, "It is a further step in implementing the Devonport and Adelaide, where she FACILITIES Coalition's policy of enhancing combat exercised her right to the Freedom of The Defence Department announced in capability within the ADF' Entry for the last time. late August its intentions to further The four companies were asked to submit TORRENS A team of cyclists from HMAS investigate options for the site of its their proposals by 22 December to conducted a 19 day charity bike ride from proposed armament facilities on upgrade the anti-ship missile defence and Newcastle to the Ship's sponsored Australia's east coast in line with a air warfare capability of the ANZAC class charity. St Anne's School for children with Parliamentary Public Works Committee ships to better allow them to contribute RAAF F-111 and RAN guided missile destroyer special needs in Adelaide. (PWC) report tabled on 30 June this year. to Australia's defence in the 21 st century.

PAGE 4 PAGE I I THE NAVY the Royal Australian Navy. She is 42 m in There certainly is a new dawn breaking length, has a beam of 9.5 m and displaces on the horizon. The ships secondary role 670 tonnes. It is fitted with is to provide assistance to the mine accommodations and a classroom for warfare and clearance diving community. training purposes and has a ten tonne 'A' SEAHORSE HORIZON may also be called frame derrick and a large amount of clear upon to supplement other DMS activities deck space aft for cargo and equipment. when not being used in her major roles. HORIZON has two main diesel engines I have come to DMS and the Navy developing I220hp each and four Support contract from the merchant thrusters providing precise positioning marine and in my short time working with my Navy counterparts I have enjoyed capability. The Master of the vessel. what I believe is a most refreshing and Mr Ross Davey has a permanent DMS Workmen at ADI in Newcastle work on the professional attitude to the job. I am crew of five. When undertaking officers inner hull of the coastal minehunter looking forward to a long and close training the vessel is manned by a Naval DIAMANTINA. relationship with the Navy. I am sure we crew of nine, under the Command of the in DMS and the Navy have much to learn Sea Training Officer. LEUT Ian McPherson and pass onto each other especially our RAN. sea going knowledge in our specialist HORIZON forms another component of fields. HORIZON'S crewing will be slightly Interesting view of the new survey ship NUSHIP LEEUWIN as she proceeds to sea for builder's trials. In the background is HMAS FLINDERS the DMS waterfront operation at HMAS different from other DMS and naval berthed at HMAS CAIRNS at the completion of another survey. FLINDERS decommissioned in early September, 1998. CRESWELL, which began supporting the vessels, she will have two crews, one Navy under contract in January this year. DMS. one Navy, both based at HMAS DIAMANTINA: KEEL CRESWELL DMS now has 20 staff, two major vessels In general terms when she LAID and ten minor support craft at CRESWELL operates as the sea familiarisation platform she will have a naval crew with ADI has formally laid the keel of and provides a wide range of services, DMS input DIAMANTINA. the fifth of the six Huon including sail training, practice weapons class minehunters for the Royal The first HMAS DIAMANTINA. a River class recovery, boat transfers and range When the ancient mariners peered at the Australian Navy. frigate. In this view she has converted clearance operations, to name a few. been horizon they wondered at the new to the survey-oceanographic role. Excerpts from the Handover speech by The 720 tonne coastal minehunters are worlds, adventures, commerce and the new Commanding Officer; being built at ADI's Newcasde facility, a learning which lay ahead. As we look at This day marks a very special occasion for purpose-built shipyard opened four years Selecting the electronic systems that will todays horizon, both the ship and that HUONs DMS and the ship.Today. I July, marks the ago. The HUON project costing $1 Billion, define modern warships, the will past Point Perpendicular, we can rest formal start date of the Defence Maritime is on schedule and within budget. ADI be equipped with a minehunting sonar comfortable in the knowledge that our Services Port Services and Support Craft reported. HUON commenced sea trials that can simultaneously search, detect, young and future mariners will receive contract. It is fitting and appropriate the last June and the second ship. classify and route survey in depths the benefits of those ancients and other ship designed to familiarise new entry and HAWKESBURY, was launched in April. exceeding 150 metres along with fibre- mariners who have sailed to the horizon other junior officers with their first taste DIAMANTINA s keel was laid by the optic link controlled mine disposal and returned triumphant and safe, having of life at sea should be formally inducted secretary of the Department of Defence, vehicles carrying searchlights, closed overcome their fears and the ravages of circuit TV camera and a disposal charge. today. the sea. RAN auxiliary minesweepers on exercises off Newcastle, New South Wales. Mr Paul Barratt at a ceremony on Tuesday. 4 August Managing director of HUON and HAWKESBURY are in the ADI. Mr Ken Harris said the laying of water. NORMAN. GASCOYNE and now QUOKKA SAILS NORTH DIAMANTINA's keel continued the DIAMANTINA are under construction After 14 years in service in Western minehunter project's excellent while yARRA is still in plans. YARRA is Australia, the 110 tonne naval tug performance. expected to be launched in September QUOKKA (DT 1801) departed from "The commencement of HUON's sea 2001 and commissioned in August of HUON HMAS STIRLING on 14 July, for her new trials emphasised the successful on shore 2002. should be commissioned at home port of Darwin. integration and setting to work of the the end of this year. Each minehunter will The tug now supports naval movements Huon class combat system." he said. have a company of 36. and activities in northern waters, with her "While the combat system has to be first task being to tow targets during the validated at sea. a major achievement of RE-DEDICATION OF Fleet Concentration Period. QUOKKA is this project has been that we have been now owned and manned by the Defence able to install it on HUON. is already PROTECTOR Maritime Services (DMS) organisation. tested and co-inciding with the The former submarine trials and The larger 260 tonne DMS manned tug completion of the ship's platform trials." rescue vessel HMAS PROTECTOR TAMMAR remains at HMAS STIRLING. Mr Harris said the outstanding progress was re-dedicated (re-named) The upgrade will involve significant and of the minehunter contract was SEAHORSE HORIZON at HMAS underpinned by the excellent complex change to their radar, weapons CRESWELL on Wednesday I July relationships between ADI and its control, and command and control 1998. systems. subcontractors, high quality project The recently painted WA based tugs QUOKKA management and the capabilities of the The vessel, which is part of the Defence After studying the proposals from and TAMMAR, after their transfer to Defence project's workforce. Maritime Services (DMS) fleet, will undertake junior officers sea industry, Defence will make Maritime Services. The former sailed from The Huon class ships will be distinguished familiarisation training, diving and mine recommendations to the Government on HMAS STIRLING for the Darwin Naval Base by the most advanced mine warfare in July. warfare support as part of DMS's ten year SEAHORSE HORIZON, ex HMAS PROTECTOR, was re-dedicated on I July, at a ceremony at upgrade options that are suitable for system of any ship in the world today, contract providing maritime support to HMAS CRESWELL in Jervis Bay. (RAN) implementation. according to ADI.

PAGE 6 PAGE 7 THE NAVY THE NAVY modern day diving teams working outside operation which may last many years. It is ROYAL NAVY the hull to create a three dimensional anticipated, though, that it may be ENVIRONMENTAL computer model of the HMS ROYAL OAK. possible to manage, and possibly to More than 50 years after she was sunk, accelerate, the rate of oil flow from HMS PROTECTION the ship was rebuilt on screen, complete ROYAL OAK by using tfiis method. The design for the oil collector is now out to In the crystal waters of Scapa Flow. with its bulkheads and compartments. It tender Once commercial engineers have HMS ROYAL OAK is leaking oil. is now possible to take the ship apart returned their designs, the most suitable Now. experts from Naval Support deck by deck, revealing each complex will be chosen and divers are expected to Command have revealed innovative plans layer of the structure of her hull, without install it late in the summer of 1998. to protect the environment against oil the need to enter the ship at all. leaking From HMS ROYAL OAK. They have Environmental surveys also used computer discovered a unique way to harness generated wind and tide models to THAI CARRIER - A natural forces of wind and tide, release establish the likely effect of any oil leak. the oil into a container and bring it The marine environment, flora and fauna LOCAL REPORT CARD were all taken into account in an ashore. The new Thai aircraft carrier CHAKRI independent report, and the findings of The idea was inspired by Royal Navy NARUEBET was bought for the Thai Navy that report were taken into account divers working on the wreck to gather in the early nineties because "it was their when deciding the way to stop the oil. NUSHIP LEEUWIN fitting out samples of the leaking oil ready for turn to have something". Now in the late Orkney is home to a large population of prior to builder's trials. laboratory analysis. They rigged a 1990s. the Navy has no use for a carrier. It over wintering sea birds such as grebes temporary tent over the leak which only engages in coastal defence and would and divers. Scapa Flow houses 9% of the funneled the oil droplets into a container. not venture beyond land-based air cover. UK seal population, and shellfish and It worked so well that engineers have The main reason given by the salmon are both caught or farmed been asked to develop a permanent Government for a carrier is that it will commercially nearby. To the west of the version, using natural force rather than give them the edge in a scrap over the ROYAL OAK lies a Site of Special Scientific man-made pumps to collect oil that is Sprady Islands (some islands offVietnam (I Interest.This solution is designed to offer circulating within the hull. They will also think!) which are hotly disputed, although protection to them, and is to be carried be asked to investigate ways of safely about half of them are underwater at high out at times when the environment is at accelerating the rate of oil leakage from tide!). However, it is understood that its least vulnerable. specific locations. Over the coming years Thailand is about the only country in the teams of RN divers will return to Oil collection and removal will include region which does not lay claim to all or monitor the rate of oil flow, with the continued monitoring, a very controlled part of them! As well, the Thais also bought a number of former Spanish AV8A Matador Harriers to go on it which many are claiming are basically junk. Since commissioning last summer the ship has only left port twice (both in 1997). Her current status is a tourist attraction, with the ship's company conducting tours and New personnel launch operated selling souvenirs at the Sattahip Naval by Defence Maritime Serwces on Base. Sydney Harbour. I&rian Morrison) The Asian economic crisis has also played havoc with Thai defence procurement policy (cancellation of eight F/A 18s, losing only their $75M deposit). President possibility of further action as the results HMS ROYAL OAK. (RAN) Clinton waived the cancellation charge of become clear. Back in 1996, following the discovery of oil ashore on the Orkney coast, the Orkney Islands Council called in the Royal Navy to try to solve the problem, amid fears that the leak was getting worse. By 1997 the hull was filled with a large metal patch, giving the project team valuable time to seek a longer term solution which met the needs of the local environment and respected the war grave. Months of diving work, surveys, computer modelling and environmental assessments followed, during which the project team Another new of the new retrieved the original ship's plans from minehunter coastal, the Royal Naval Museum at Greenwich NUSHIP HUON. and combined them with data from ILACN Smyth MAF) Thai aircraft carrier CHAKRI NARUEBET. (USN)

PAGE 8 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY

$250M.The operations policy is going the concepts, supporting joint service "Battleship Row" 300 hundred yards much greater better training benefits same way with attempts to slash costs all requirements in the littoral. Armed with behind USS ARIZONA. She will reside COMFLOT AT RIMPAC 98 through integration with units from other over the place, so the chances of CHAKRI an array of land-attack weapons. DD 21 there for a maximum of three years nations. In answer to your specific NARUEBET going to sea. or even of her will provide offensive, distributed and before moving to a permanent site at the question we are not operating as a separate Australian Task Group in getting proper upkeep in the short to precise firepower at long ranges in most seaward end of "Battleship Row" at An interview conducted with briefly improving interoperability is the key RIMPAC at all. which I believe, is a much medium term are slim. support of forces ashore. Equipped with piers F-2 and F-3.The grand opening for COMFLOT (Commodore Russ benefit. The opportunity to work in multi state-of-the-art information technologies, Shalders) and CTG (Captain Lou warfare environment is a close second. better way to conduct the exercise. MISSOURI and her memorial museum is DD 21 will operate with forward- Rago) during Exercise RIMPAC 98 DD 21 scheduled for January 1999 What is the Australian Navy's How does RIMPAC rank to other deployed joint forces, emphasizing The United States Navy's new land-attack "These two ships together make a more What is COMFLOT's role at contribution to RIMPAC 98, and exercises that the RAN participates "sensor-to-shooter" connectivity in destroyer of the 21st century. DD 21, significant statement about our country RIMPAC 98? what is the major purpose of in? entered Phase One development of order to provide a Naval or Joint Task and the spirit of our American I'm the Sea Combat Command for the Australia's involvement? RIMPAC ranks very high up on our Force Commander with the mission system concept on 17 August with the Multi National Force (MNF). working for In the RAN Task Group itself we have priorities because of the professional flexibility to both counter any maritime servicemen and women than each ship award of a $68,500,000 agreement Commander Carrier Group Three. My 1000 young men and women at sea. value we get from it. We exercise a lot in threat and to destroy a variety of land could make by itself." Sutton said. modification to the DD 21 Alliance. function is to co-ordinate all surface and However, the total is over 1200 our region but. of the standing exercise targets. "Together they symbolize the beginning under sea warfare for the IVINF. I'm also Australians participating when you we do. RIMPAC would be top of the tree, The Alliance, comprised of General and end of World War II and the sacrifices involved in maritime interception and include the personnel involved in support only just ahead of some of our regional Dynamics' Bath Iron Works Corporation Additionally. DD 21 will use advanced made by tens of thousands of our young defensive warfare as well as small ship crews for the three P3C Orion aircraft as exercises. For example the Five Power (BIW). Bath. Maine, and Ingalls "stealth" features to make these warships men and women during that war. They helo co-ordination. This means I have well as the Australian support staff ashore Defence Arrangement exercise called Ex Shipbuilding. Pascagoula, Miss., is led by less noticeable to potential adversaries together remind the world of the Honor. responsibility for most areas of warfare and embarked in USS CORONADO and STARDEX. where we work with Malaysia. General Dynamics, who will execute the and more survivable to enemy attack. Courage and Commitment that is with the exception of air defence CARL VINSON. We have a lot of people Singapore. New Zealand and the United Phase One agreement. The use of two. Currently, there are 32 ships planned for America's character." warfare, and command and control involved and have expended significant Kingdom, is also very important to us. In independent design teams will ensure the DD 21 ship class. The first ship of the She was recommissioned in both 1944 warfare. Essentially, I look after the sea resources because we get such excellent terms of professionalism, RIMPAC is the that DD 21 benefits from intense and class is expected to arrive in the fleet in and 1986. fought in three Wars. (World and undersea warfare responsibilities training value from the exercise.The value one we value the most aggressive competition during this critical 2008. War II. Korea and the Gulf War), and was assigned to the IVINF Commander. we get from RIMPAC makes the time, concept development phase. Work will be How is Australia's role different decommissioned twice (1955 and 1992). effort and money well worth it. performed by two competing teams: the What benefits does the Royal from past RIMPAC exercises? Now. the "World's Most Famous Interaction between junior officers and "Blue Team." led by General Dynamics' USS MISSOURI Australian Navy receive by sailors of other navies during various The 1998 exercise is not that much Battleship" has returned to the place she BIW, with Lockheed Martin Government The USN's most famous warship, the participating in RIMPAC 98? social and sporting activities also helps us different from 1996, although the started her illustrious career when she Electronic Systems. Mooretown, N.J.; and batdeship USS MISSOURI (BB 63) was The RAN receives substantial benefits to understand what the other nations RIMPAC scenario has changed joined the Pacific Fleet in 1944 the "Gold Team." led by Ingalls gently guided and delicately docked to a from RIMPAC. We have been coming to cultures are and what environments they considerably over the years. In the past MISSOURI'S teak wood decks hosted the Shipbuilding, with Raytheon Systems Pearl Harbor Pier on 21 June after a RIMPAC since it started: in fact this is our work in. We really enjoy the interaction we have worked as an Australian Task Company. Falls Church. Va. Each signing of the "Instrument of Surrender" 2.300-mile voyage across the Pacific from 16th appearance. We always make an between the different nations. Group and as the Opposition Force. competing team is responsible for by the Japanese in Tokyo Bay in 1945. effort to get as many ships as we can over Bremerton, Wash., that began 3 June. When RIMPAC involved two aircraft developing an independent competitively Kihune said. "It's the last ship the Sailors here and we've been coming for a long How does the Australian TG carriers, the Australian TG worked in "Welcome Batdeship MISSOURI to your robust total ship design and life cycle see as they leave Pearl Harbor and it's the time because we do get such a lot of operate in RIMPAC? opposition to one of the carrier groups. new home port — die best home port support concept for the DD 21 System. first ship they'll see when they return. benefit from the exercise. The biggest The Australian Task Group is split for in the Navy." RADM William Sutton. What are your personal And I think it will be a reminder of all the benefit is enhancing interoperability, RIMPAC 98; we are not solely working as Commander Naval Base Pearl Harbor, working with other nations, particularly expectations for RIMPAC 98? The 21st century Destroyer is the first Sailors who have gone before them and an 'Australian Task Group' because we are told the crowd at the "Aloha Mighty Mo" surface combatant founded entirely upon the US but with all the other nations as fully integrated across the full range of My key hope and objective is that we have MISSOURI have paid the price for liberty." post-cold war thinking and strategic is tied to pier F-5 on well. A level below that is the great RIMPAC activities. For example HMAS a professionally rewarding exercise. We training benefit we get from working in ONSLOW and DARWIN are working with have come a long way and spent RIMPAC's complex scenarios with lots of the Opposition Force; the Commanding considerable money getting ourselves ships and advanced weapons firings, Officer of HMAS PERTH (Captain Lou here. What I hope to get out of it is a which in some cases we do not get a Rago) is the Surface Action Group (SAG) group of Australian ships and a wider chance to do in Australia. The general commander with no other Australian RIMPAC community that achieves structure of RIMPAC means we get to ships in his SAG.The other two Australian professional results. That's what we are practice every element of warfare with a ships. HMAS MELBOURNE and DARWIN, all about. Almost equal to that large number of other forces operating in are in completely different SAGs. Having professionalism goal is a safe exercise. We a complex and dynamic scenario. So the Australian Task Group split gives us have spent a lot of time thinking about safety. RIMPAC is a very complex activity and potentially very dangerous. Each of the Commanding Officer's and all the ship, submarine and aircraft personnel will endeavour to ensure it is a safe exercise. The third goal is that people enjoy themselves. This is a really good opportunity to understand how other people work and to really practice our training. Professionalism is the key. safety is shortly behind that and thirdly I hope our people really enjoy it and have fun doing it We love coming here to Hawaii and I think if you asked the average Australian sailor what he would like to USS MISSOURI. (John Mortimer) do. going to RIMPAC and visiting Hawaii Tribal class destroyer sails for RIMPAC exercises. (Photo - Brian Morrison)

PAGE 10 PAGF I I THE NAVY THE NAVY

When we finish RIMPAC we don't go straight back home but put the ships through a series of exercises and activities culminating in our Fleet Concentration Period in Darwin where the ships from RIMPAC meet up with another TG. which is deploying to SE Asia. The ships don't actually get back to Sydney until 23 September.

What happened on the passage over to RIMPAC? On the way over the TG received a message from RCC Honolulu that a fishing boat captain had been lost at sea from a ditched helicopter. We were close HMAS SUCCESS and an American oiler to the area, so as all mariners will do. we went to the aid of someone at sea with a would be high on the list. Sailors spend a exercise, with SO odd ships, keeps you problem.TheTG searched for over 12 hrs lot of time at sea getting here, on exercise extremely busy. The information flow is but the decision was taken, when the and getting home again but the part of the complexity of RIMPAC In my person was not recovered, to proceed to attractions of Hawaii seem to really make view, if you always do simple operations Hawaii Only a couple of days out of Pearl up for it then that is all you will ever be able to do. Harbor HMAS MELBOURNE was Every now and again we need to practice How does RIMPAC test the RAN? detached and conducted a search for a in a really complex environment. We do a sunken vessel Their helicopter located RIMPAC provides a test of how we are number of complex activities on our own the liferaft which was subsequently found going. From a Ship's Captain point of view but we just don't have the assets and to be empty as the passengers had it is a very good measure of the ship and resources that RIMPAC gathers together already been rescued. It is part of our job crews performance. You can test yourself That's the opportunity that RIMPAC to help our brethren on the oceans. And. by yourself as much as you want but provides us. unless you can base-line against other it is one of those things we train for. In The USS CARL VINSON passes the former USS MISSOURI (now museum ship) and USS ARIZONA (war memorial) as she arrives in Pearl units in an asset rich environment you How long is the Australian TG away the course of a two week passage it was Harbor for RIMPAC 98. (USN) don't get the same sort of results. The from home? most unusual for two SAR incidents to passage speed of lb knots. Spending 12 Waikiki beach whilst watching the (STG) function.When a ship comes out of amount of quantitative information that occur. The first incident was 40 miles off TheTG is away for a long time.just under hrs on task meant that the TG had to aircraft, boats and people with a cold refit, the STG puts the ships through a you have to process in such a large our track to Hawaii, and the TG had high four months from Sydney to Sydney. catch that time up. It was unfortunate beer in your hand at Dukes bar. It's one of work up process, culminating in an that the first incident did not have that the world's great places. The only assessment of its capabilities. The STG same successful outcome as the second. disappointment of this trip has been the comprises a number of experts who sea inability to visit some of the other islands, ride. They spend a lot of time working What pre-exercise activities have which we have had the opportunity to do with the ships and putting them through the Australians been involved in? in previous RIMPACs. mainly due to the a number of evaluations. Whilst the STG One of the great advantages of coming to busy program this year. Fortunately there focus is on single ship capability, it then RIMPAC is the use of the range and has been sufficient block leave periods for becomes the CM's responsibility to work support facilities at Hawaii. All our ships sailors to fly to MAUI and some of the up theTG as a group of ships.The overall have been through our Foracs range other islands in their spare time. TG readiness becomes his responsibility. testing and sensor measurement and The second function of COMFLOT. is they have conducted torpedo firings. The What aside from RIMPAC are what I'm doing here at RIMPAC and that sensor testing, ranging and torpedo firings COMFLOT's duties? is to exercise tactical command in a were pre RIMPAC activities, which have COMFLOT has two functions; the group of ships. Basically I have two roles: been very valuable. So there are actually primary one is the Sea Training Group STG and Tactical command. two reasons for being here, one is to check our weapons systems and the other is to participate in the exercise. It's a good learning process. It will probably be the last time that we do the testing and ranging here in Hawaii as we have recently built equivalent ranges in Australia.

What are some of the Australians favourite places in Hawaii? Waiamea fall and Hanauma Bay. the bars and karoke in Waikiki. lots of mountain bike riding opportunities are just some of the favourites. I reckon there is not many better sites in the world than watching HMAS MELBOURNE in Pearl Harbor. July, 1998 The frigate was the final warship depermed the sun go down over Diamond Head and at the naval dockyard. (RAN) US Navy LCAC (Landing Croft Air Cushion) during the amphibious phase of RIMPAC 98 PAGE 13 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY

joined the Navy League in 1954 and for beginning of an association, indeed a remainder of his term as Navy Chief and, It remains to be said that Admiral Sir many years served as the State President friendship, that lasted until Sir Victor's in a broader tri-service sense, while he Victors successors have, by and large, OBSERVATIONS and Western Australia's representative on death 29 years later. was Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. followed his example and so far as the the Federal Council. He is a life member It was obvious the Navy's supporters It can of course be argued that Service Navy League is concerned have "engaged From Geoffrey Evans over 360 submissions, half of which were of the Navy League. could be of very little help to their leaders who preceded Admiral Smith in regular dialogue". supplementary submissions amending the National Shipping Line Sale Moves Len has also been involved in a wide former service unless they were familiar were equally conscious of the need for Upon retirement Sir Victor was made a original, some three, four or five times, range of community activities. His with its problems and needs; this required public support for the armed forces but life member of the Navy League and The Australian Government, in its efforts were received. frankness and a close and continuous so far as the Navy is concerned, the way to dispose of the Australian National Line colleagues extend their congratulations Patron of the ACT Division. Transcript of the hearings and the written to Len on a well-deserved award. relationship between the leaders of Navy he set about "closing the gap between The Navy proposes to sell the company in three * Mr. B. A. Santamaria, July - submissions have been published, the and the organisations involved. Admiral Navy and the civilian community" (as he September 1998 issue. pieces - the liner trade (preferred bidder Admiral Sir Victor Smith latter in 16 volumes. The variety of Smith agreed and honoured the put it in a letter to the writer) was Compagnie General Maritime [CGM];self theories concerning the loss is quite For the second time this year the writer agreement to the full during the unusual and perceptive. discharging vessels (preferred bidder remarkable, but the writer gained the is faced with the sad task of commenting Auscan Self Unloaders) and shore-based impression that even if SYDNEY is on the death of a long-time and influential activities consisting of container located and the probable cause of her supporter of our Navy League* management, freight forwarding etc. THE FLEET AIR ARM CELEBRATES 50 YEARS destruction is determined. the Admiral Smith's wartime experiences and While ownership of the first two parts overwhelming feeling is to allow the ship professional achievements, especially overseas the land activities, depending to to be as she is - a war grave. those in the latter part of his career - successes achieved by British and some extent on the successful purchaser EARLY YEARS A FLEET AIR ARM The defence sub-committee is also Flag Officer Commanding HMA Fleet; American aircraft carriers in the batdes of the liner trade business, will possibly be Australians were involved in flying The naval aviation plan originally inquiring into military justice procedures three Naval Board Appointments, the last against Japanese forces, the Australian sold to one of the large Australian operations during the Great War (1914- submitted required two ex-British Light in the ADF. At the time of writing it is as First Naval Member and Chief of Naval Government decided to form its own Fleet transport companies. 1918), with all personnel serving with the Fleet Carriers, three Carrier Air Groups not known when its findings on either of Staff; Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Air Arm based on an aircraft carrier force. If they go ahead as planned the sales will British Royal Naval Air Service. and two Naval Air Stations for training the inquiries will be presented to the - are well known to former naval mean the end of yet another once proud Operations were conducted with a The first documented move by the RAN and support functions. Recruitment was Parliament. personnel and were well documented in Australian shipping company. number of Australian warships, including to acquire a fixed wing carrier force was to be achieved by volunteers from the obituary columns of mainstream The ANL was never a giant among the the battlecruiser HMAS AUSTRALIA, and in 1944 when the then CNS presented General Service, civilians and experienced The rurgotten Campaigns newspapers at the time of his death. worlds shipping companies but as an the cruisers SYDNEY. MELBOURNE and his submission to the War Council. He FAA personnel from the RN. In effect, the As readers of this column will be aware Not so well known was the Admiral's active and innovative participant provided BRISBANE was seeking a gift of an aircraft carrier early FAA consisted of almost 50% of from comment in previous issues of The acceptance of the fact that the Navy Australia with an influence in an industry from the Royal Navy. However, whilst ex-RN personnel. Navy, for several years a group of former could no longer be "the Silent Service" In the early 1920s the Australia built of absolute importance to the country. ALBATROSS many Australians were involved in early naval personnel who served in HMA and that it must have the support of the seapiane carrier HMAS was The plan was approved in August 1947. Australians may one day regret the short- naval flying operations. Australia would ships involved in the Malayan Emergency civilian community if it was to prosper. launched at Cockatoo Island, for The carriers MAJESTIC and TERRIBLE were sightedness of their governments. not form its own naval aviation force until anti-terrorist campaign and the Vietnam To gain support Admiral Smith looked in operations with RAAF aircraft Seagull III acquired, to be renamed MELBOURNE amphibians. In 1938 ALBATROSS was 1948. although many attempts had been war, have been seeking recognition and the first instance towards former naval and SYDNEY and two Carrier Air Groups eventually transferred to the British in made previously to achieve just that UK Shipping Decline similar benefits accorded to their personnel. As CNS in 1969 he invited (CAGs), the 20th and 21 st - with Fireflies exchange for the new cruiser HMAS colleagues in the Royal Navy and Federal and State Leaders of the Naval Subsequently, in October 1945, the and Sea Furies. The two Naval Air Bases Australia is not the only country with HOBART. merchant shipping problems. The August Australian Army and Air Force. Association and the Navy League to carrier acquisition debate increased. A were identified at Nowra and Schofields. ALBATROSS edition of The Melbourne Log. journal of The quite reasonable request of the Canberra to meet the Naval Board and to Throughout World War II the Royal project officer was sent to England to located at Nowra, on the the Melbourne Branch of the Company group has so far been only partially discuss, in particular, ways of repairing the Australian Navy operated improved evaluate the RAN's air requirements for a New South Wales south coast eventually of Master Mariners carried the following successful despite voluminous RAN's image which had been badly RAAF Seagull V and Walrus amphibians Fleet Air Arm and to propose a plan became the one and only Naval Air NIRIMBA item: correspondence with a variety of damaged as a result of several disasters from its three heavy, three light and two based on the then Royal Navy Station, with acquired for involving the Navy in the nineteen-sixties. technical training purposes. Initial "National Statistics has announced that authorities and representations to armed merchant cruisers. Following the organisation. The writer was one of those who technical and aircrew training courses British Shipping contributed (pounds political leaders and others which it attended the meeting and it marked the were carried out in the UK. sterling) 4.45 bi"ion in 1997 ( 4.68 bn in would seem difficult to reject. Perhaps those who advise ministers and 1996), whereas expenditure in foreign The 20th CAG, comprising 816 and 805 officials are unaware of the turmoil that shipping aggregated 5.17 bn (reduced by Squadrons, was formed at RNAS engulfed much of southern Asia in the 0.04 bn since 1996 NUMAST describes EGLINGTON in Northern Ireland on aftermath of World War II, and the efforts this as ridiculous at a time of rising world 28 August 1948. HMAS ALBATROSS of British Commonwealth countries to shipping, for an island nation" commissioned on 31 August 1948 and the maintain order in newly liberated NUMAST is the organ of the Union of first of the RAN's aircraft carriers, HMAS British Merchant Officers. It is hard to European colonies. If so reminders would SYDNEY was commissioned at Plymouth realise that not so long ago Britain was appear necessary. in the UK on 16 December 1948. The the world's major shipping nation. first of the light fleet carriers arrived in Former WA President Honoured Jervis Bay on 25 May 1949 with the 20th SYDNEY Inquiry Long time member of the Naval Reserve CAG embarked as deck cargo. The inquiry by the Defence Sub and the Navy League of Australia. Captain In April 1950 the 21st CAG comprising Committee of the Joint Parliamentary Len Vickridge OBE VRD* was honoured 817 and 808 Squadrons was Foreign Affairs. Defence and Trade in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours commissioned in the UK for transport to Committee into the loss of HMAS List and became a member of the Order Australia aboard HMAS SYDNEY. SYDNEY in 1941. completed its capital city of Australia (AM) for service to the community. hearings and nominated cut-off dates for The second of the new carriers. written submissions mid-year. Len Vickridge joined the RANR in 1934 HMAS MELBOURNE, incorporated many Altogether 79 witnesses appeared before and served throughout World War II. improvements over the earlier SYDNEY. the sub committee in Canberra, Perth. Demobilised in 1946 he remained in the The new ship became the first Melbourne. Sydney and Brisbane, while Reserve and finally retired in 1973. Len The late Admiral Sir Victor Smith. The Australian Naval Aviation Museum during a recent air day. operational aircraft carrier in the world

PAGE 14 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY 817 Squadron with eight Sea Kings now Vietnam War The Gulf War converted to the medium lift utility role Four helicopter contingents, each of 12 Ships of the RAN with helicopters and; months duration (Helicopter Flight embarked were dispatched to the Persian with a mixture of six Vietnam) joined the US 135th Assault Gulf in August 1990 and participated in Squirrel helicopters for training, five Bell Helicopter Company for land based the US led coalition war agzinst Iraq. It is 206"s for survey duties and training and. a operations in a very different type war extraordinary to note that the Seahawk pair of HS 748's for the all important from October 1967 helicopter, just delivered to the RAN, ECM training. HMAS SYDNEY, converted to a continued introduction trials on a war troopship/stores role embarked footing - with outstanding success. Also at HMAS ALBATROSS is No 2 helicopters on a number of her 24 re- In all three wars the RAN found itself Squadron, a RNZAF Skyhawk Unit on supply trips from Australia to South learning new 'tricks' to deal with vasdy contract to the Australian Defence Vietnam. The Vietnam experience was a different and rapidly developing scenarios. Forces for Fleet Support and Air Defence harrowing experience for both the In addition and on a regular basis. RAN training duties and Pel Air, a civil aircrew and groundcrew alike, with many helicopters regularly make headlines contractor operating Lear Jets, also on fatalities and wounded in operations in a carrying out daring rescue missions and contract for Fleet Support duties. permanent hostile environment. The assisting in flood relief in one extreme, to In January 1997 orders were placed for RAN Helicopter Flight Vietnam was bush fires in another. eleven Kaman Super Seasprite Preserved Hawker Sea Fury above HMAS disbanded in June 1970 ending a helicopters armed with the Penguin air to ALBATROSS. remarkable FAA chapter. surface missile system to operate from the new ANZAC class frigates now entering service with the RAN. The CALLING ALL EX-FAA PERSONNEL arrival of the Super Sea Sprites from early Grumman S-2E Tracker of the Historical Flight We are holding our Golden Jubilee Reunion it HMAS ALBATROSS - 28 OCTOBER - 2 NOVEMBER 1998 and we are trying to locate all next century will bring with it. another surviving ex FAA sersonnel to invite them to this significant occasion. The 50th Anniversary of HMAS ALBATROSS to incorporate steam catapults, an angled era of helicopter operations for the Fleet (31 August 98) is also being commemorated in a folnt celebration during the period, with the following programme: NAVAL AVIATION TODAY Air Arm. deck and a mirror landing system. Date Activity MELBOURNE arrived in Australia in May. The Naval Air Squadrons now based at The RAN Fleet Air Arm has been Wednesday 28 Oaobei 1000 - Registrations open at Museum HMAS ALBATROSS continue to support 1956 with 816 and 817 (Gannets) and involved in three significant wars since the Fleet at sea. with most of the RAN's Thursday 29 October 1200 - Registrations - continue 808 (Sea Venom) Squadrons embarked. 1948 and numerous peacekeeping principal frontline and support ships Divisions NAS 1830 - Combined Cocktail Party. Beat Retreat Museum Fixed wing carrier operations in the RAN commitments. reached a new crossroad in 1959. having the capability to embark Friday 30 October 0800 - Registrations - Museum Discussions were held regarding the helicopters. 1000 - FAA AGM-PTS Theatre Air Day Rehearsal all day disbanding of the fixed wing elements of The three squadrons at HMAS KOREAN WAR 1100 - Base Tours Museum Tours the Fleet Air Arm in 1963. when a major ALBATROSS include: SYDNEY The participation by and her 1230 - BBQ Lunch and expensive upgrade was expected. 816 Squadron with 16 Seahawk anti- CAG from 31 August 1951 was an 1400 - FAA History - Review Decisions were being made to reduce the submarine warfare helicopters for amazing feat as she sailed off to war after 1500 - Launch History Book FAA to a purely anti-submarine rotar operations from the six guided missile only two and a half years from the first PM - Mini Branch Reunions force, with the planned acquisition of 27 frigates (FFGs); flight of a Sea Fury in Australia. Dolphin Watch Wessex helicopters from 1961. The FAA 1900 - SOth Anniversary Ball "A" Hangar experienced another foui year period of Saturday 31 October 1100 - Freedom of Entry Parade with RAN uncertainty, but with the decision to Historic Flight flyover retain MELBOURNE as a fixed wing Private aircraft "Fly In" carrier, the ship went on to operate Spring Festival Mini Reunions successfully in major international Kangaroo Valley Tours exercises across the world. In April 1963 Race Day - Nowra Racecourse the carrier achieved her 20,000th deck 1900 - BBQ Museum landing since commissioning in 1956. Sunday 1 November 0830 - Ecumenical Service A third aircraft carrier. HMAS - Monument Dedication - Museum '/'6NCEANCF was also operated by the 1030 - HMAS ALBATROSS Air Day RAN in uie early 1950s. The ship was Monday 2 November - Mixed Bowls Competition and Golf Day loaned from the Royal Navy during the - Sydney Tour (All day) period 1953-1956 to fill the gap until the Would you please forward your details below (and those of known ex FAA ship mates) In order that we can make contact and forward MELBOURNE arrival of The Sycamores an invitation in due course to Join us and make this a worthy and memorable occasion. VENGEANCE delivered were the first Addms helicopters to be purchased by the RAN. Name Embarked fixed wing carrier operations Phone Fa* / Email . continued throughout the Korean and Alternatively, please send a fax to *4I (02) 4421 1999 or hardcopy to: Vietnam war periods, as well as numerous MikeLehan major international exercises until 1982 Secretary MELBOURNE when the 27-year-old was FAA 50th Anniversary Committee decommissioned, on 30 June. Fixed wing PO Box AIS operations continued for another two NAVAL PO years, after which the FAA was reduced NOWRA NSW 2540 tman may be sent to: anam{gozemail.com.au to a predominantly helicopter force. Interior view of the large vintage aircraft display area at the Australian Naval Aviation Museum.

PAGE 16 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY

specifications were larger than normal air-conditioning and dust filtration units THE KIDDS, OPPORTUNITY for use in the Persian Gulf, by coincidence this also makes them suited to Australia's ONLY KNOCKS ... top end. The main weapon system of the Kidd class By Mark Schweikert countries are lobbying to have the Kidd consists of two Mk-26 twin arm In a decision that can only be offer extended to them. Most notably launchers for Standard SM-2MR in place described as illogical the ADF the Greek Navy who recently conducted of the Sea Sparrow and ASROC launchers rejected the RAN's best opportunity detailed surveys of all four ships. of the Spruance. The forward magazine to once again become a credible The level of USN RAN interoperability holds 24 Standards while the after holds naval power when it turned down a gained by purchasing the Kidds. in 44. a total of 68 in all. USN 'gift' of four Kidd class particular with their CBGs. would be The Kidd's radar suite is also impressive Destroyers. History will record this unsurpassed by anything in the RAN. with a SPS-48E 3-D air search radar, an as the greatest strategic blunder This would have allowed the RAN to SPS-49 air-search radar (as used on the since the loss of the aircraft carrier electronically 'plug into' joint or allied RAN's FFGs and Anzacs). two SPG-SI fire Melbourne. operations giving it the ability to control radars for the SM-2MR. one fire In October of last year the USN informed exploit the USNs impressive C4ISR control radar for her two Mk-45 127 mm Australia that a window of opportunity (Command. Control. Communications, guns (as used in Anzac) a short range existed to purchase its four Kidd class Computers. Intelligence. Surveillance and track while scan fire control radar, a destroyers. USS KIDD. CALLAGHAN. Reconnaissance) capabilities and join the surface search and navigation radar. SCOTT and CHANDLER, which were being maritime RMA (Revolution in Military Her C3 (Command. Control. USS CHANDLER arrives in Sydney, 1994. (Brian Morrison) withdrawn from service prematurely. Affairs) club. Communications) capabilities are Regrettably, despite the A$30 million impressive and provide the class with a These examples demonstrate the class's make way for the 'new'. That 'new' price of each and the fact that these are flexibility only seen in more expensive flexibility. The Kidd class destroyer can be consists of more flight IIA Arleigh Burke powerful and impressive destroyers, the HISTORY Aegis equipped ships. On many SAG described as a blending of the best class destroyers with Aegis and offer was declined. Had the Kidds been In 1979 an Iranian order for four US built deployments they have performed the features of the Spruance class destroyer Tomahawk. Aegis equipped ships are accepted the RAN would have been the AAW destroyers was cancelled as a role of group command ship whilst still and the combat systems and weapons of viewed as being far more capable, flexible most powerful Navy in the South West result of the Ayatollah Khomeini coming conducting defensive or offensive the Virginia class nuclear powered guided and survivable in the littoral battlespace Pacific. South East Asia and possibly the to power. The USN then purchased the operations. One such case was the class's missile cruisers. This formula makes the environment which the US is increasingly Southern Hemisphere, restoring it to a still-in-build destroyers and renamed performance during the 'Tanker War' in Kidd class one of the most lethal afloat. being engaged in due to the end of the level not seen since the loss of the them the Kidd class, after Rear Admiral the Gulf. The class not only acted as MELBOURNE cold war. Aegis and Tomahawk allow a Aircraft Carrier Isaac Kidd killed aboard the USS flagships but also provided defence Kidd THE QDR AND USN ship to establish theatre air dominance The class has had a varied and ARIZONA at Pearl Harbor. against attacks from Iraqi and Iranian air and influence events ashore through the interesting career and its early The Kidd class reflex s what the Spruance and surface threats. SURFACE COMBATANT application of precision long-range decommissioning has nothing to do with was meant to be but a lack of funding Before the arrival of Aegis equipped ships firepower. Both these USN objectives are their capabilities but rather USN altered the design slightly. The only STRENGTH the Kidd class constandy formed the not required by the RAN. economies. But Australia's decision not to differences between the two lie in AAW defence and C3 element of CBGs The Kidd class was originally due to Further, the model used for number proceed with the offer not only defies weapons and sensors as the Kidd was logic but contradicts the recent "Strategic and BB lead SAGs.Two of the class. USS decommission in 2017 however, the requirement generation has also changed. designed for general warfare with a SCOTT KIDD. Review" which called for a strong Navy and saw action in the Gulf recent US QDR (Quadrennial Defence Basing distances on the location of recent particular emphasis in AAW. according to EISENHOWER to defeat ships and aircraft in our air-sea War as escorts to the Review) called for an all Aegis fleet and naval engagements, redefining the numoer the original buyer's intent. Another MISSOURI gap. Unlike us. other enlightened CBG and SAG respectively, the total number of US surface combatants of months between deployments and advantage of the original buyer's complementing and supporting the Aegis to fall from the current 128 to 116. How changing the point of origin of ships to escorts of the groups. this figure was arrived at and why it Part of the classes impressive radar suite. deployed areas has contributed to the affected the Kidds has nothing to do with During the UN operation "Restore From top to bottom, the SPS-55 surface revised ship numbers. the class whatsoever, ie. age or Hope" in Somalia the USS CHANDLER search radar, the navigation radar, the SPS- Another facet of the revised figure is the technological deficiencies, as detractors made a 30 knot transit from the Persian 49 air search radar, the SPQ-9A anti-missile expected contribution to USN of the offer to the RAN inaccurately Gulf to Somali. Operating within visual track while scan radar and the SPG-S ID operations of countries like Canada, the portrayed. range of Mogadishu airport for nearly a Standard fire control radar. Also visible one UK and Australia etc. US Chief of Naval month. CHANDLER provided sole air A US General Accounting Office report of the ships two Phalanx guns. Operations Admiral Jay Johnson stated in traffic control services for civilian and on Surface Combatants released in May the 1997 edition of 'Force 2001: analysis of war fighting crisis response, and military aircraft of all types from many 1997 foreshadowed a number of reasons Vision...Presence...Power* that it is overseas presence objectives". nations for the entire country. why the parameters used to plan surface essential to provide "allies or likely coalition More recently the class has been used for combatant numbers would fall. Firstly, It should be noted that if the MRC partners with US equipment, training and counter narcotics operations with great with more capable and flexible ships, ie. requirement were reduced to one then a logistics support (to improve) interoperability success. On September 27 1997 the USS Aegis and Tomahawk equipped, coming off further 45 surface combatants would be and common infrastructures among our own CAllAGHAN, operating in the Eastern the slips. 116 surface combatants was withdrawn cutting into the USN's forces". Further to this the USN Secretary Ticonderoga Pacific, chased a large ocean racing boat viewed as being appropriate to meet class cruisers. Consequently John Dalton said in September 1997 "our Kidds and seized 3.500 kg's of cocaine current mandates of US military strategy, the early withdrawal of the is not nation cannot shoulder alone the burden of estimated at US$ 165 million. On March 5 that being able to deal with two platform based as the same fate could undergirding peace and stability throughout MRC's (Major Regional Conflicts) of this year the USS SCOTT assisted in have been suffered by the Aegis and the world". One could surmise that USN simultaneously. However, (the report Ticonderoga seizing 1.800 kg's of cocaine off the coast Tomahawk equipped class. strategy calls for the acquisition of Kidds stated) "this figure was derived largely from of Honduras whilst on anti-drug With ship numbers set, the USN is by the RAN not only to help itself but budget-driven objectives rather than an Kidd class guided missile destroyer USS KIDD. (USN) surveillance operations. currently clearing out the 'less new' to also Australia.

PAGE 18 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY retention of the SM-IMR missile and no ships in the RAN. Logistically the fleet fleet wide C3 capabilities. would be under some pressure as up until To add insult to injury both contenders this point the fleet was comprised of propose fitting some equipment to the British made ships and equipment. All the FFGs already found in the Kidds. but even equipment on the DDG would be the application of this technology, and the exclusive to them thus requiring an $1 billion, will not produce a warship expansion of the fleet's logistic system. anything near the Kidds. A potentially However, this did not influence the debilitating and frightening aspect of the decision.The ships were assessed on their 'upgrade' is that much of the new combat merits. However, today the RAN is system, like the Collins class SSKs combat different. Some of the uncommon system, is untried and unproven. It is also equipment of the Kidds was cited as rumoured that both proposals now placing too much strain on the fleet's exceed the $ I billion budget. logistic system. However. I would point Detractors argued that the Kidd offer out that if the Kidds had been introduced was another second hand junk sale. the older DDGs could have been retired Nothing could have been further from immediately thus making way for the one- of USS CHANDLER on her left The bow the lost visit 10 Sydney. From the Mk-26 twin the truth. Two of the Kidds have recently off equipment of the Kidds by taking the launchers for and one of Mk-AS 127 mm naval guns (as used the 74 km SM-2MR the two been laid up in reserve and the other two place of the greater number of one-offs on HMAS ANZAC) are still fully operational and deployed. of the remaining DDGs. Remembering The aft Mk-26 twin arm launchers for the The bow of an improved Spruance class But the stigma of second hand equipment that the Kidds are significantly more KIDDS IN THE RAN CONCLUSION Standard SM-2MR. As ASROC has been destroyer showing its 62 cell Mk-41 VLS. As is still somewhat strong based on the LST common to the FFG and Anzac than the Apart from new Order of Battle Posters', Inside the RAN the battle over the Kidd withdrawn this leaves the class with a missile the Kidd class shares the same design they acquisition experience. However, it DDGs. four new names, some new ammunition offer was somewhat divisive. Many at the load of 68 Standards. could also be modified with the VLS to should be noted that KANIMBLA and and electronics stocks nothing more sharp end were in favour of acquisition It is unfortunate that our bureaucracy improve the ships firepower and reduce the MANOORA. regardless of their problems, but some dry docked Canberra into was improving the Kidds even number of crew. would be required to fit the Kidds into still represent a significant capability and force structure is so rigid and Admiral's' opposed it. Industry is certainly further and investing in a new program the RAN. except some manpower, budget enhancement and saving over new build inflexible that an opportunity like the worried as acquisition of the $ 120 million still currently underway in the USN. The The three DDGs will start to and program re-allocations. Most of the ships. One should also remember that in Kidd offer cannot be given the attention Kidds was seen as an alternative to the $ I 'Smart Ship' project is investigating ways decommission next year without ships systems, electronics and weapons the past the ADF has profited from it deserves. A senior Admiral has publicly billion FFG upgrade, as it was widely of reducing manpower onboard ships replacement, at least one FFG will be in are common to the RAN including their second hand equipment such as the F- stated that Navy did not bother to believed that four of the older FFGs would which in turn produces significant LM-2500 gas turbine propulsion plants. SHROPSHIRE, DUCHESS. investigate the offer (also evidenced by major refit and modernisation each year IIIGs. HMAS financial savings, approximately US$2.8 decommission to make way for the Kidds. and the Anzac WIP will not provide a The major difference being the Kidd's SUPPLY. JERVIS BAY. GOLDSBOROUGH to their inaccurate criticisms) given the Although this may seem a waste of four million p.a. per ship for a one-off US$8 range of 8.000 nautical miles at I7kt"s name just a few. plans in place for the current force deployable ship for nearly eight years. FFGs which have served the RAN well million investment. compared to Anzac's range of 6.000 structure. It is also regrettable that some Matters are made worse by the fact that one should consider that the FFGs were Criticism of the offer also includes the The US study team's initial findings were nautical miles at the same speed. This would prefer to invest a billion dollars in Collins is well behind schedule. designed as disposable warships at the provision of through life support. The that crew reductions could be made equates to less out of area support a somewhat pointless 'upgrade' on six With two Indian Ocean powers sabre height of the cold war, with a life span of USN Spruance class destroyers are also based on greater use of internal required by the Kidds. particularly along frigates instead of $120 million in four rattling with nuclear weapons and ballistic 23 years without major modification being decommissioned early but for communications, bridge and watch our long coastline, and thus a force recently updated operational destroyers. missiles to deliver them, it would have (USN figures). Given this philosophy it is scrap. If the RAN had repeated the very manning policy changes, increased use of multiplier. This is particularly poignant given that the made sense to have four of the worlds not surprising that doubts about the successful Goldsborough exercise with two GPS and digital charts, a self monitoring RAN is currently at its lowest ebb in most powerful destroyers inserted into RAN's earlier FFGs hull integrity are Spruance class cut up for Kidd spares condition assessment system and a ASW torpedoes, helicopters and living memory and is set to get worse. an order of battle of an island nation already starting to emerge. The Kidds then through life support could be computerised damage control facility.The helicopter handling systems are the same. sharing that same ocean. It would have also however, are large 9.000 ton warships achieved for as little as $10 million report on the program stated that "the Many of the radars and consoles along whose life expectancy is over 35 years, (remembering the virtually identical smart ship initiative was a success and can made sense to include the Kidds into the with communications equipment are consequently they will last a lot longer design of the two). provide a significant return on a modest RAN now as any future DDG common. However, what is not common than our FFGs despite the fact they were investment in technology", and that the replacement under project SEA 1400 will is the class's superb 3-D air search radar, Another problem cited with Kidds were commissioned around the same time.This program can produce "long term benefits be nowhere near the capability of the crew numbers as each ship's complement its C3 capabilities and its Standard SM- fact also means that a replacement will of positive crew moral and increased Kidds and cost an astronomical amount. It is approximately 350. As the DDG's 2MR anti-aircraft missiles, which not be needed as soon thus affording a retention of quality personnel". Recently, as crews have already been earmarked for will also come at a time of incredible stress incidentally the RAN is hoping to use on saving. part of this program the Ticonderoga Anzacs, crews would have to come from for the ADF due to block obsolescence in a WIP Anzac. cruiser YORKTOWN went to sea to At this point one should question why four decommissioned FFGs. ADELAIDE, the RAAF. Army and RAN. CANBERRA. SYDNEY. DARWIN. demonstrate the concept and was As mentioned the Kidd class destroyer The SM-2MR is essentially the only hard the Kidds were rejected in favour of the As each certified combat ready, operational and FFG upgrade. For $1 billion the FFGs will FFGs complement is only 190 this leaves offer was rejected. The FFG upgrade' is kill counter to the sjpersonic SS-N-22 safe with 50 enlisted and four officers gain another fire control radar, a short only 760 to fill a total complement of less of a capability enhancement as a $ I 'Sunburn' ASM (Anti-Ship Missile) now less. range air/surface search 3-D radar, a new 1400. But some in the RAN suggested billion Ministerial confidence investment entering the Chinese Navy. It also combat data system, a new hull mounted that a figure of 250 per Kidd could be in industry. When the history of the RAN provides a means of defeating attacking Initial elements of this new program are ASW sonar, a mine avoidance sonar and achieved through modifications to the is re-written the Kidd offer will end up as aircraft armed with ASMs beyond their already being integrated into all USN an eight cell VLS for Evolved Sea Sparrow ship's weapons and sensors, such as a footnote. But it was more than that It missile release point. Having the SM-2MR ships and submarines. The question the (Tenix proposal). replacing the two Mk-26 twin arm RAN should have asked itself was. if these represented one of the greatest capability now is vital given that more launchers with Mk-41 VLS. as on the It is not receiving SM-2MR or any modest changes were applied to a opportunities presented to the RAN to than 75 countries now possess over 90 improved Spruance which shares the significant upgrade in its long-range radar once again become a credible world different types of ASMs. These three modified Kidd of 250 personnel how coverage as compared to the Kidds. Nor Kidd's design. This would have reduced many would then be required to crew? One of the impressive features of this class maritime power. History will record this differences of the Kidds would have will it receive the same C3 capabilities, crew numbers and significantly improved Possibly 200 or the same as an FFG? is its SPS-48E 3D air search radar with a missed opportunity as the greatest enabled the RAN to mount virtually any the ASW potential, the NGS capability or the already impressive firepower of the In 1961 the RAN took a bold step and range of 402 km. Below it is the SPG-60 strategic blunder since the loss of the type of maritime operation required and the range, speed and survivability of the Kidds. acquired the Charles F. Adams class DDG. fire control radar for the Mk-45 127 mm carrier MELBOURNE. So much for the in a safe and effective manner anywhere Kidds. Some of the more disappointing One area that the $ I billion from the FFG At the time these were the first US made naval guns. Strategic Review. in the world. elements of the FFG 'upgrade' are the 'upgrade' could have been re-directed PAGE 21 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY

naval power in East Asia and a lack of exceeds the biological replacement of dumping and Maritime accidents; developed on Deep Sea Bed Mining. OCEANS GOVERNANCE AND political will to solve the growing fish. The world fishing take was therefore jurisdictional issues for navies; SW Marine Protected Areas and Refugee arguments between East Asian countries felling, and some fisheries had already Pacific Regional Co-operation; and Flows. over disputed islands and Exclusive been almost destroyed. Hunger for Oceanography and Hydrography. Clearly there are huge changes in Economic Zones. There needed to be a various types of resources increases the MARITIME STRATEGY There is now a complex array of law activities and responsibilities taking place resolution of maritime claims, and prominence of maritime disputes. developed since the UN Conference on in the ocean areas around us. The agreements on dealing with incidents as Dr Mark Valencia of the East-West idea of freedom of the seas. The tension Law of the Sea 1982. This brought with it pressures created by the population The latest seminar in the biennial series they arose. China had huge maritime between these has waxed and waned Centre emphasised the energy new challenges for navies in policing the run by the RAN's Maritime Studies interests. 25% of her oil and gas was explosion, advances in technology, the through the centuries, and has reflected the vulnerability of a number of Asian nations High Seas with limited resources. During Centre in conjunction with the University offshore; within 12 years. 10% of her GDP demand for food and minerals and political. strategic and economic and their growing dependence on energy the coming century there would be an of Wollongong's Centre for Maritime would come from fishing. China was changes in international law are making it circumstances of each particular age. When from ocean areas. Competition could increasing need to control activities on Policy and Tenix Defence Systems, developing her Oceans Policy. of growing importance that we in one or two great commercial powers have exacerbate maritime problems. The East the High Seas beyond normal national (formerly Transfield). took place in RADM Chris Oxenbould, the RAN's Australia look to our ocean frontiers. We been dominant or have achieved parity of China Sea was the last low latitude area in jurisdiction. Some recent regimes Canberra from 18 to 19 May 1998. The Deputy Chief of Navy, outlined the now have responsibility for one of the Oceans Governance and power, the emphasis in practice has lain upon the world not yet explored, and there changing the ancient Freedom of the High subject was extensive Regional Security Co-operation world's largest exclusive economic zones, Maritime Strategy the liberty of navigation and the immunity of were overlapping claims. 85% of Japan's Seas concept include:- and the seminar between Australia and East and SE Asian stretching 200 nautical miles from our shipping from local control; in such ages energy was imported. Requirements for attracted a wide audience from Austr jlia the countries and the nations of the South • the 1988 Vienna Convention on drugs coasts and island territories, together been viewed more as strategic energy by China. Korea and ASEAN states and the Asia Pacific region. seas have Pacific in many fields of naval and air which allows boarding of ships beyond with the adjacent continental shelf. than as economic areas of competition. were increasing at a major rate. Problems Overseas speakers, mainly from activities. He felt that this contributed the 12 nautical mile Territorial Sea During the conference it was announced When, on great powers have were arising all over E and SE Asia due to Universities, represented China, the USA. the other hand, to stability in the areas concerned. that the Government was about to been in decline or have been unable to overlapping claims in the offshore areas. • the Rome Convention on Maritime Korea and Samoa, while addresses were Possible improvements might include launch an issues paper for public impose their wills upon smaller States, or Problem areas included the Spratley Terrorism also given by local authorities from the concentrating on greater interoperability comment on Australia's Oceans Policy. The when an equilibrium of power has been Islands, the . the Gulf of Universities ofWollongong and Tasmania, of forces, more warfighting exercises • the HMS and Straddling Stocks policies contained in this document will the Department of Defence, the RAN. attained between a multiplicity of States, the Tonkin, the Takeshima/Tokdo Islands (fisheries) Agreement which allows such as Mine Counter Measures, be of considerable importance to our the CSIRO Maritime Research Division, emphasis has lain upon the protection and involving Japan, South and North Korea; boarding in International Waters increased training, exercises with Asean future as "the nation at the centre of the the ANU Strategic and Defence Studies preservation of maritime resources, and the Senkaku/Dia O'yu Islands and the naval forces involving Maritime Patrol • the CCAMLR covering the Antarctic world's oceans". Whatever the content, it Centre. the Attorney General's consequently upon the assertion of local Okinawa Trench/Continental shelf aircraft and inter-action with submarines. in which there are no enforcement seems quite clear that we will have to Department, the East-West Centre. authority over the sea. disputes between Japan and China. One There was also some further potential arrangements devote increased resources to Environment Australia, the HQ Australian Professor Choon Kun Lee of the Korean for pooling some efforts with New solution might be joint development in • the IMO Marine Environmental surveillance, and to enforcement of our Defence Force, the Bureau of Resource Institute for Maritime Strategy spoke on Zealand. some areas, as arranged in the agreement Sea Power and Security at the Close of the Convention own and international laws in the areas Sciences and Tenix Defence Systems. between Australia and over the 20th century. for which we hold responsibility. The keynote address was given by Korea has now established a Timor Sea. However, there did not appear So far there has been little co-ordination Dr Rosemary Balkin of the Attorney RADM A J Robertson AO DSC RAN Professor Ed Miles of the University of Ministry of Maritime Affairs and wishes to to be the political will for a solution of internationally on such matters as Piracy, General's Department spoke on (Rtd). Washington who opined that the Law of become a leader in the diplomatic field Responsibilities and Obligations under the East Asia disputes. the Slave Trade and Stateless Vessels. the Sea Conference, which took 10 years covering Oceans Governance in her local Intentional Law and oudined the various Other speakers covered fisheries and However, the United Nations is currently Federal Vice-President Navy League of to negotiate, represented the best area. He oudined the concerns now felt in Laws and Conventions to which Australia highly migratory fish species, pollution, reviewing whether conventions could be Australia. balance between competing approaches East Asia, particularly since the end of the is now committed, including the London the world was likely to achieve, and that cold war. Oceans Governance was less Dumping Convention regulating dumping we must make it work. Many countries effective now than in previous centuries. at sea. the Basle Convention on including his own had failed to satisfy the US hegemony was now not as great as transboundary movement of wastes; the Law of the Sea and this was a concern, that wielded by the Portuguese. Spanish. Marpoll Convention on Maritime not least in view of the huge claims of Dutch and B tish before her. US Strategy Pollution; the Intervention Convention on such countries as China (most of the seems to have changed, with a massive Coastal States intervening on the high South China Seas) and Chile (in the reduction of the US Navy and its resulting seas in the case of accidents causing South-East Pacific Ocean). There was East Asian presence. There was now pollution; and the Convention on Oil some conflict between the Law of the Sea doubt as to its capacity to govern the Pollution. and certain local agreements such as the oceans. Asian countries now worry over Antarctic Treaty.This latter banned mining the security of the sea lines of Dr Marcus Howard of the University of below 600 S but the new Law of the Sea communication. There has been a 39% Tasmania outlined outstanding issues allows deep ocean bed mining. increase in spending on Navies and Air with Regimes for Oceans Governance, Commander Dick Sherwood, the Forces in East Asia since the end of the stating that time was required for Director General Maritime Studies cold war. With no land threat from the implementation and there was a need for Program, followed Professor Miles with a Soviets, China was now moving towards the harmonising of national laws in a succinct historical outline of the becoming a maritime power. There was whole range of subjects. development of Oceans Governance also concern in Korea over Japan and her from the times of Ancient Greece, and its ocean claims. In covering Maritime Environment impact on Maritime Strategy including the Security, Mr Alan Dupont of the Strategic Defence Studies Centre Canberra, growing legal limitations on naval mobility. The Director of the Chinese Institute for oudined the major impact on the seas : He concluded with a thoughtful quote Strategic Studies in Shanghai. Professor Ji deriving from the great population from Professor D F O'Connell's work on Guoxing, emphasising he was presenting growth of Asia, concentrated mostly in The International Law of the Sea: his own views, oudined the problem of coastal areas. 80% of sea pollution came The History of the law of the sea has been the world's growing population and from the land and there were increasing dominated by a central and persistent scarcity of resources. He felt maritime problems of human and industrial waste, theme: the competition between the exercise co-operation could act as a catalyst and a oil pollution, radio-active waste pollution of government authority over the sea and the bridge for security co-operation. There and the degradation of land and coastal was a trend to an irreversible increase in areas. The capacity for fishing now far HMASTORRENS; 1971 to 1998.832,796 nautical miles; 61.590 hours underway. BZ

PAGE 22 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY They will fly from ANZAC and Leander The RNZN is expected to buy another THE LONG-LIVED usefulness in the rescue and utility roles class frigates. single Super Seasprite to operate from remained, of course, and the LAMPS additional platforms, with the RAN having concept took off. Both the RAN and RNZN have selected SEASPRITE options to increase its SH-2G(A) fleet the Telephonies AN/APS-143 PC radar, Kaman's Seasprite first flew in July 1959. After concept trials with HH-2D with the commissioning of new which will incorporate an inverse By the end of 1965. the U.S. Navy had conversions, the Navy selected the helicopter equipped ships. Kaman has synthetic-aperture radar (ISAR) mode in received 190 single-engine UH-2A/B Seasprite in October 1970 as the LAMPS also proposed a land-based version, to the case of the Austi alian aircraft, but the utility and rescue models, most of which Mk I.Twenty H-2s were converted to SH- carry up to eight fully armed troops for remainder of the sensor, avionics, and were upgraded during the late 1960s and 2Ds, equipped with sonobuoys. Mk46 an Army reconnaissance and fire-support weapon fit differs. 1970s with a second General Electric- torpedoes, a search radar, an active sonar helicopter for use in the north of the built T58 turboshaft engine, an uprated repeater, a UHF acoustic data-relay Each SH-2G(A) will carry a Litton country. The Department of Defence is transmission, and a four-blade rotor. The transmitter, and an electronic surveillance Guidance & Control Systems Integrated expected to issue an invitation to register second engine gave the HH-2C, HH-2D, measures (ESM) receiver. Tactical Avionics System (ITAS). with four interest in June, with a request for YSH-2E, SH-2D. and SH-2F conversions colour multi-function displays, and an tenders in June 1999. Contract award is substantially increased load-capability and In March 1971. the Navy committed automatic flight-control system. Dual planned for July 2000, with deliveries survivability. almost all of its remaining Seasprites to Litton LN-I00G ring-laser-gyro inertial from January 2003. the LAMPS Mk I program. The SH-2F The advent of the light airborne navigation systems, each featuring a version - with a more powerful upgrade multipurpose system (LAMPS) during the Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, A helicopter designed over 40 years ago of the T58. the improved Kaman 101 late 1960s changed life forever for the replace the earlier Doppler radar. is being remanufactured into a 21st- rotor, a towed magnetic anomaly Seasprite. The LAMPS, a successor to the Australia has chosen the Hughes Aircraft century fighting machine for several detector (MAD), avionics upgrades, and a less-than-successful QH-50 drone anti- AN/AAQ-16 turret-mounted forward- foreign navies. Kaman Aerospace tailwheel moved forward (to facilitate submarine helicopter (DASH), centered looking infrared set (FLIR). operating in Corporation's long-lived H-2 Seasprite, in flight operations from smaller decks) - around the use of a light helicopter to the 3-5 mm band, to provide the required its SH-2G Super Seasprite configuration, long reigned as the standard LAMPS Mk I extend the horizon of a warship's sensors range when operating in the hot and has been rescued from a well-deserved aircraft, eventually equipping six fleet and and weapons.The idea behind the LAMPS humid conditions encountered around retirement by aggressive Kaman three reserve squadrons. A total of 104 concept was to use the Seasprite to track Australia's northern coast. This is a marketing and new avionic technologies Seasprites. including 16 of the SH-2Ds. submarines and attack them with variant of the unit that Hughes is that have transformed the shipboard were converted to SH-2Fs. torpedoes, and. in the anti-ship missile- supplying for theV-22 tilt-rotor program in helicopter into an even more formidable defense role, to provide warning of cruise The introduction of the Sikorsky-built the US. with three (rather than two) extension of a ship's combat systems.The missile attack. The helicopter's yeoman SH-60B Seahawk (LAMPS Mk III) in fields of view. Elisra is supplying its AES- Egyptian Air Force and the Australian and 210 electronic support measures (ESM) New Zealand Navies all have contracted suite, which additionally manages operation with Kaman for remanufactured SH-2s. of the Israeli company's LWS-20 laser and the navies of several other nations warner. Northrop Grumman AN/AAR-54 are considering purchases of the Super missile approach warner. and AN/ALE-47 Seasprite. countermeasures dispensing system. The SH-2G(A) model helicopter will be Kaman's first SH-2 for an overseas armed with two Kongsberg Penguin Mk 2 customer rolled out of the company's Mod7 anti-ship missiles, one on the Bloomfield, Conn., plant on 21 October. starboard pylon, with provision for a The first of 10 SH-2G(E)s for the second round to port. A Link 11 terminal Egyptian Air Force was welcomed in a will be fitted for the exchange of targeting ceremony by Gen. Hazim Awad. chief and other information. The SH-2G(A)s procurement officer for Egypt, who said will be fitted with a composite main rotor that the SH-2G(E) "adds an important The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Computing Devices Canada AN/UYS-503 blade (CMRB2) with a I S.OOOh fatigue new dimension to my country's ability to and Royal New Zealand Navy acoustic processor and Mk 46 or Mk 50 life, developed by Kaman under USN defend its coastal waters." He gave special (RNZN) have ordered II SH- lightweight torpedoes. As well. Kaman is contract. Across the Tasman Sea. the praise to the SH-2's anti-submarine 2G(A)s and four SH-2G(NZ)s from fitting kits in six of the east coast aircraft RNZN selected a standard rather than a warfare (ASW) system. "This is an Kaman Aerospace International so that they can carry the Magic Lantern 'glass' cockpit. Each New Zealand outstanding aircraft and we are looking under contracts valued at in excess laser-based mine-detection system. helicopter will be armed with two forward to its becoming a part of Egypt's of US$600 million and US$185 The Australian and New Zealand Super AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface missiles, defense system." million respectively. Seasprites are planned to operate in the one per side, on new outboard weapon The SH-2G Super Seasprite is an surveillance and anti-ship roles rather pylons. Charles H. Kaman. Kaman Corporation's upgraded derivative of the earlier SH-2F than for ASW (using only two crew). The chairman and CEO. called the rollout "a As an interim measure the RNZN also model, with power provided via twin RAN's Super Seasprites have been milestone event for the SH-2G Super ordered four ex-USN SH-2Fs as interim General Electric T700-401 engines. The acquired under Project Sea 1411. like Seasprite as it marks the beginning of its replacements for the aging Westland SH-2G has been operated by the US those for Egypt, use refurbished ex-US new mission in international military Wasps, until the newer Super Seasprites Naval Reserve since February 1993 with Navy airframes taken from desert storage service. We are very proud to have Egypt are delivered.The first F model arrived in two squadrons with 14 aircraft each, one in Arizona. Deliveries of the 11 aircraft as the lead international customer for the late 1997 with flight trials from February, each stationed on the east and west under firm contract are due to span from SH-2G and we look forward to 1998 and first shipboard deployment, coasts. These helicopters carry a Litton September 2000 to mid 2002. to equip supporting this aircraft for the life of the aboard TE KAHA planned for June. Canada LN-66 surveillance radar and the ANZAC class frigates, while New program." The value of the Egyptian After the delivery of the SH-2G(A)s. Zealand has elected to procure newly program to Kaman is more than $150 ASN-150 tactical navigation system, plus the older SH-2Fs will provide a source million for the aircraft and support an anti-submarine warfare (ASW) suite of built aircraft, using some existing of spares. sonobuoys, magnetic-anomaly detector. components, for delivery from June 2000. First RNZN SH-2F Sea Sprite above Auckland city. (RNZN)

PAGE 25 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY

1983 apparently marked the beginning of T700-GE-40I engines. The SH-2G restored or replaced as needed, and capability. Like the U.S. Navy SH-2Gs, the the New Zealand and Australian Super Integrated Avionics System (ITAS),a"glass the end of the SH-2. but the relatively featured a dramatically expanded obsolete wiring is removed. Modular Egyptian versions are operated by three Seasprites. cockpit" that, according to Kaman crew members: two pilots and a sensor officials, will make the SH-2G(A) the diminutive size of the SH-2 ensured its capability over the SH-2F, made possible terminals for new avionics systems also Delivery of the first SH-2G(NZ) is are installed. operator. "most sophisticated, most integrated longevity as long as the Navy retained the by a 99-channel Computing Devices-built expected in June 2000. The New Zealand Knox rotary-wing platform flying." Australia class (and earlier) frigates, and the UYS-503 acoustic processor, a Litton- The Seasprite had never served in a The 10 SH-2G(E)s purchased by Cairo Defense Force and Kaman Aerospace Perry built ARN-150 tactical navigation system, selected the AAQ-16 FLIR and AES-210 short-hull Oliver Hazard class foreign air arm. The proposed sale of five were delivered to the Egyptian Air Force International have completed reactivating a Mil-Std 1553 data bus. and an auxiliary ESM systems for the SH-2G(A). which will guided-missile frigates. The naval buildup SH-2Fs to Portugal in 1990 did not go at a rate of one per month through July the second of four Kaman SH-2F of the 1980s kept the demand for LAMPS power unit. However, the end of the cold feature rotor blades built of composite through. A 1994 Foreign Military Sales 1998. The first three are temporarily Seasprite helicopters, which will serve on helicopters high; to meet that demand war led to cancellation of plans to material. Delivery of the first SH-2G(A) is plan to provide Turkey 14 SH-2Fs for use based in Pensacola. Fla.. for crew training; an interim basis until the year 2000. when and replace attrition, the Navy ordered remanufacture about 115 SH-2Fs to SH- Knox scheduled for September 2000. on board its class frigates was put actual deliveries to Egypt began in April they will be replaced by more advanced the Seasprite back into production after a 2Gs; ultimately, only 18 such conversions on hold by Congress because of tensions 1998. The Egyptian Air Force will deploy SH-2G Super Seasprites. 16-year hiatus, a rare occurrence in were completed. The rapid retirement of its Super Seasprites on board the between Turkey and Greece. The U.S. The first two aircraft are being used for TECHNICAL aviation history. Starting in fiscal year the six fleet SH-2F squadrons - and one Egyptian Navy's Knox class frigates Naval Reserve SH-2Gs soldiered on. training pilots and ground crews of the 1982. Kaman built 54 new-construction of the three reserve SH-2F squadrons - though, and occasionally were deployed Damyat and Rasheed and Oliver Hazard Fitted with two General Electric T-700 Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) for SH-2Fs for the Navy. In 1987. to improve during the early 1990s accompanied the to interdict drug runners. The Kaman- Perry class guided-missile frigates engines (similar to those fitted in the Knox the advanced "G" version. These aircraft survivability in the volatile Persian Gulf withdrawal of class and short-hull built Magic Lantern minehunting laser Mubarak and Taba. (Egypt is expected to RAN's Seahawk helicopters) the Super will be used for "first of class trials" on region, many Seasprites were upgraded Perry class frigates. The SH-2G never system, tested on board an SH-2F during acquire two more Perry class ships and Seasprite will be an extremely capable the RNZN's new ANZAC class frigate TE with ALQ-144 infrared countermeasures entered service with the Navy's active- the Gulf War. became fully operational two more Knox class ships.) and flexible helicopter in its normal KAHA, after which they will continue in an equipment. AAQ-16 forward-looking duty forces, but replaced the SH-2Fs in this year after two sets were delivered to operating configuration. The principal operational status. infrared (FLIR) sets. ALE-39 chaff and the two remaining reserve light anti- one of the reserve squadrons. HSL-94 at characteristics and capabilities of the SH- 2G(A) Super Seasprite in summary are: flare dispensers, and M60 7.62 mm submarine helicopter squadrons (HSL-84 Naval Air Station Willow Grove, Pa. RNZN - DELIVERY IN The SH-2Fs were obtained from the and HSL-94). machine guns. The fact that the Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk 2000 United States, where they had been in • Maximum All Up Weight (or its S-70 equivalent) had been sold to The process of turning an SH-2F into an desert storage. In New Zealand, the (MAUW) 6.166kg several foreign navies did not deter AN END AND A SH-2G is not a mere airframe Last year. Kaman Aerospace International aircraft each undergo intensive "nose to • Maximum Take Off Weight Kaman. which saw new opportunities for refurbishment and systems upgrade: it Corp. announced a contract to provide tail" reactivation to bring them back to (MTOW) 6.123kg the Super Seasprite. which can operate four SH-2G(NZ) Super Seasprites to the operating standards. Reactivation of all BEGINNING requires a complete stripping of the •Useful Load 1.823kg from ship's helopads that are too small Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN). four SH-2Fs was scheduled to be Following trials of the YSH-2G. the Navy airframe and remanufacture of • Cabin Volume 5.3cu m for the larger SH-60/S-70. The availability components that need replacement. New Deliveries are expected to begin in 2000 completed in the August-September ordered six new SH-2G Super Seasprites. • Rescue Hoist Load Capacity 272kg of small anti-shipping missiles gave new timeframe. powered by two General Electric-built engines are installed, moving parts are to replace four SH-2Fs that Kaman will • Range About 680km potency to light helicopters, and the deliver to the RNZN to serve as interim The SH-2F can be used in both Anti- increasing miniaturization of avionics • Endurance About 3.8 hours replacements for the Westland-built Submarine Warfare (ASW). Anti-Surface Sns&S!?"' made possible a lightweight dipping sonar, • Maximum Speed About 140 knots Wasp ASW helicopters on board the Warfare (ASuW). Search and Rescue, as the Allied Signal Ocean System's ASQ- Leander Following delivery and introduction into 'J WiaHB /a RNZN's class frigates and new well as for carrying up to 4.000 pounds of I8A. that the small SH-2 could handle. ANZAC service, the helicopters will be largely Meko 200 class frigates. external cargo. It carries a crew of three • Half a decade after Super Seasprite supported by a purpose designed and The RNZN plans to operate the SH- - pilot, observer and sensor operator. A production ceased, Kaman entered constructed Support Centre located -v 2G(NZ) with a two-man crew, a pilot and foreign competitions for shipboard a tactical coordinator (TACCO).The SH- close to the Nowra Naval Air Station.The helicopters. In 1996 and 1997, its 2G(NZ) version will be configured to fire AUSTRALIA - "GLASS Centre will provide a wide range of marketing efforts paid off with orders for the AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface technical and logistics services, manage remanufactured Seasprites from Egypt. missile. Test-firings of the optically guided COCKPIT" UPGRADE the repair and overhaul of engines, major * fSmjS- Australia, and New Zealand. Maverick were conducted from a U.S. Kaman Aerospace International Corp. components and avionics equipments and r •ftf^J ' iT® Navy SH-2G in February 1996. but New also announced a $600 million contract will warehouse the majority of helicopter ••J©* •L ylja^M Zealand will employ the infrared version to provide eleven SH-2G(A) Super spares. In addition the Super Seasprite EGYPTIAN AIR FORCE - from its SH-2G(NZ)s.The New Zealand Seasprites, as well as 10 years of training, Flight Simulator and the Software Government has chosen the AAQ-2 FLIR technical, and spares support, to the Support Facility will both be located at DEEP-DIPPING SONAR and LR-100 ESM systems for the SH- Royal Australian Navy (RAN). The SH- the Centre. The technical, logistics, training and software upkeep services will Kaman's first foreign model, the SH- 2G(NZ)s. which will be capable of 2G(A)s, scheduled for delivery between be conducted by industry with only a -JgiSI 2G(E). is the first and. as of late recovery on board ship using the early 2001 and mid-2002, will operate ANZAC small Defence personnel presence. Such November. 1997, was the only version of Harpoon decklock system. from the RAN's eight Meko 200 arrangements, which are consistent with the Super Seasprite planned to be fitted The $185 million Super Seasprite class frigates currently entering service with the 1,500-foot-depth ASQ-I8A contract with New Zealand includes and. according to Kaman officials, "will be the ongoing Commercial Support dipping sonar instead of a sonobuoy costs for spare parts, missiles, and able to operate from any helicopter- Program initiatives, represent a new way dispenser. A U.S. Navy SH-2G was used training. Teaming with Kaman to support capable ship - large or small - in the of supporting naval aviation and are as an evaluation platform for a new digital the New Zealand and Australian Australian Navy and will be interoperable expected to provide increased helicopter hover coupler designed by Kaman. The contracts are Safe Air Ltd. (New with their allies' ships." The SH-2G(A) availability at a reduced cost. Vista Controls-built coupler (automatic Zealand); Litton Guidance & Control and can recover on board ship using a A contract for the helicopters and stabilization equipment, or ASE) was GE Aircraft Engines (United States); and recovery-assist traverse (RAST) system. supporting infrastructure was signed on tested at the Naval Air Warfare Center Transfield Defence Systems, CSC Like the RNZN version of the Super 26th of June 1997. The first four Aircraft Division at Patuxent River. Md.. Australia Pty. Ltd.. and Scientific Seasprite, the Australian version will helicopters will be fully assembled in the to evaluate its capability in automatic Management Associates (Australia). On 5 operate with a two-man crew. Instead of USA with the remaining helicopters being approach, hover, sonar cable-angle hold, November, Telephonies (Farmingdale, the Maverick, Australia chose the AGM- largely assembled at the Nowra Naval Air and departure. The ASE reduces pilot N.Y.) was awarded a contract from II9B Penguin Mk2 Mod 7 anti-shipping Station.The first of the Super Seasprites is workload, enables the helicopter to Kaman for the APS-l43B(v)3 sea- missile to arm its Super Seasprites. The planned for delivery during the first half launch torpedoes while in a hover, and surveillance radar (with inverse synthetic- SH-2G(A)s will be equipped with the of 2001 with all deliveries completed by provides a night automatic hover United States Navy SH-2F Sea Sprite. (Kaman) aperture radar capability) to be used on Litton Guidance & Control Systems-built mid 2002.

PAGE 26 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY NAVY WEEK 98 - SYDNEY NAVAL REVIEW - THE PHILIPPINES

PROGRAMME OF OPEN DAY, SUNDAY 11 OCTOBER, 1998

Time Activity

1000 Fleet Base Opens. Cowper Wharf Road. Woolloomooloo HMA Ships Open for Inspection;

- Logistic Landing Ship HMAS TOBRUK

- Guided Missile Frigate HMAS MELBOURNE

- Guided Missile Destroyer HMAS PERTH

- Guided Missile Frigate HMAS NEWCASTLE

(with continue;» huge' Navy video wall and photographic exhibitions)

- HMA Submarine ONSLOW The former USN Auk doss minesweeper RIZAL (PS74), built for operations in the Second World War and transferred to the - Fleet Oiler HMAS SUCCESS Philippines in 1965. Stricken in 1994, the patrol ship was refitted - To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Fleet Air Arm. and returned to service from January, 1996. She is crewed by 100 four Naval helicopters available for inspection on wharfside including; personnel. The ship is armed with two 76 mm guns and four 40 mm, Sea King. Seahawk. Squirrel and 206B-1. four 20 mm and two 12.7 mm guns. (Brian Morrison) Australian Naval Aviation Museum display opens

1000 Shoreside displays open, including;

- Task Force 72 model warships

- National Flags

- Defence recruiting van BRP (Ship of the Republic of the Philippines) RAJAH HUMABON was - Naval Historical Collection display originally built for the United States Navy in 1943. She commissioned as the USSATHERTON (DE 169) and after service - Australian Naval Aviation Museum DYNAMIC DIVING BLD 902 DISPLAY AREA with the Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force was transferred to - Photographic Displays Toilets the Philippines in 19 78. Although stricken in 1993. RAJAH (Disabled access) HUMABON was restored to operational service. The 55-year-old - Naval Reserve Cadets patrol ship (PS) is expected to remain active until the early 21st - Fleet Gymnasium century. (Brian Morrison)

1100 Navy Band performance Auk class patrol ship QUEZON during the 1998 Naval Review. The 1130 Diver display in Woolloomooloo Bay two twin 40 mm guns are visible above the afi 76 mm gun. All of the original anust-^marine weapons have been removed during the 1300 Navy Band performance 1995-96 refit (Brian Morrison)

1400 Diver display in Woolloomooloo Bay

1530 Ceremonial Sunset performed by the Naval Guard and Band

1600 Ships' gangways close to visitors Display Marquees 1630 Last visitors off ships

Toilets 1700 Fleet Base closes

(Please note:This programme may alter subject to ships' availability) Another view (port bow) of the RAJAH HUMABON at the 1998 Naval Review. Her main armament comprises three single 76 mm Ferry dual purpose guns. (Brian Morrison) Fine broadside of the Auk class vessel RIZAL This 53-year-old ship is one of ten Second World War vessels (one frigate, nine minesweepers) currently forming the PS force. (John Mortimer)

PAGE 28 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY The Navy also wants to be assured a permanent mooring site based on Port SAYING THE MIDWAY District support and completion of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Late On I July, 1998 the U.S. Navy officially cornerstone of the long-term vision. The last year, the Port gave its conceptual announced its intention to award the plan is expected to be forwarded to the approval of the project at Navy Pier 11 A, decommissioned USS MIDWAY Port District for formal consideration by subject to completion ot an EIR. the aircraft carrier to the San Diego October. development of which is underway. Aircraft Carrier Museum (SDACM). "The inclusion of the MIDWAY as the In response to another Navy condition, In a letter to SDACM's president. Alan anchor of the North Embarcadero. project officials are developing a specific maintenance plan - including staff Uke, Assistant Secretary of the Navy minutes away from a soon-to-be- monitoring, encapsulation, cleaning, John W. Douglass said delivery of the expanded convention centre, is a vital cog sealing and removal techniques - to be historic ship from Bremerton, Wash, is in our city's tourism industry," noted San approved by the Environmental confirmed, upon completion of five Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau MIDWAY Protection Agency and become part of conditions. organisers expected President Reint Reinders. the environmental impact report. all of the conditions being met. Meanwhile, museum organisers expect to The Navy's requirement for adequate One of the recent 78 foot class patrol boats in service with the A group of community leaders and meet the conditions contained in insurance is being met through Navy. PG378 HILARIO RUIZ was completed in 1995, as one of 24 elected officials have been working for Douglass' letter in the near future. &RP EMIUK JACINTO, the former Royal Navy Peacock class patrol companies that specialise in museum units accepted between 1990 and l998.The 56.4 ton vessel is more than five years to moor the Said Uke. "We have been working closely vessel, transferred by sale in April, 1997. Built as HMS PEACOCK in MIDWAY insurance coverage. manned by ten crew and carries four 12.7 mm machine guns and at Navy Pier 11A in San Diego with the Navy for five years. This official 1983, the ship operated with her sister ships as part of the Hong two 7.62 mm machine guns. (John Mortimer) Bay as a tribute to the armed services and Finally, the United States Navy will Kong squadron, until the handover of the colony to mainland China notification confirms that we can be as San Diego's first new. major visitor require a lease for use of Pier 11 A, in June. 1997. (Brian Morrison) confident that MIDWAY will be coming to already developed and under review. attraction since the Wild Animal Park San Diego for her final tour of duty." Equally important, two-thirds of the opened a quarter century ago. The Navy requires evidence of "firm warehouse on Navy Pier has been financing" for the project SDACM's Vince The Navy notification accelerates the removed, creating approximately 400 Benstead and others have been meeting momentum for the project. MIDWAY parking spaces for use by MIDWAY with local banks to establish a organisers have raised more than $1.5 visitors and others. consortium of local lenders to finance million from San Diegans and are well "We appreciate your efforts to preserve approximately $3 million for the project's into their second phase of fundraising. and honor ex-MIDWAY and look forward opening phase. From the beginning. The Port District's advisory North to working with you over the coming MIDWAY organisers have adamantly Embarcadero Planning Alliance is nearing months to fulfill all requirements to insisted the project would not involve completion of a master plan that includes finalise the donation of this historic MIDWAY taxpayer funds. the at Navy Pier IIA as a vessel." said Douglass.

Vehicle landing ship BACOLOD CITY, in commission since December, The old and the new. A former Royal Navy Peacock class moves swiftly 1993. Based on an Australian designed roll-on/roll-off beachable cargo ship, the two Filipino ships (sister DACUPAN CITY) were built towards two of the older patrol ships. (Brian Morrison) in the USA as members of the US Army Frank S. Besson class. (John Mortimer)

Coast Guard Swift Mk III type patrol boat This ex USN craft was Starboard quarter view of BACOLOD CITY in 1998. A helicopter built in the mid 1970s. Mountings for the two 12.7 mm machine platform is fitted aft for operations of light helo types. Both class guns are fitted forward of the bridge. (John Mortimer) members can carry 150 troops. (Brian Morrison)

PAGF 30 PAGE 31 THE NAVY THE NAVY

The association s year-long study found a MIDWAY was commissioned on Expeditionary Medal; and Vietnam Service author's knowledge, they are all true. models, with 130 black and white and 30 sound and conservative financing plan September 10. 1945. Named for the Medal. Nevertheless, it is understandable that colour illustrations. MIDWAY, BOOK there may be differences of opinion about which should result in a successful, self- Battle of the carrier was the After being the first aircraft carrier The story of the maritime aircraft is exacdy what did happen all those years supporting museum for San Diego. The lead ship of her class, ultimately serving "forward deployed" for 17 years in related through well researched narrative ago. Most of the contributors were costs of mooring and refurbishing the her country for 47 years. More than Yokosuka, Japan, she returned to North REVIEWS and data, plus some interesting large recalling events which took place in their MIDWAY Museum will be borne by a $3 200,000 American veterans served Island Naval Air Station in San Diego for format (full page) tables which describe MIDWAY teenage years, with all now in their 70s, million bank loan. $ I million in donations aboard her. In that time, the saw decommissioning in April of 1992. Today, through figures and dates, the some in their 80s, and even a few in their as well as future surplus revenues from service off Vietnam, in the Persian Gulf she rests at Bremerton. Washington, SHIPMATES chronological history of these unusual the museum. The carrier museum will be and in a number of other conflicts and 90s. It would be surprising, indeed, if they ready to begin her final "tour of duty" as Illustrated Tales of the Mascots aircraft moored to the old Navy pier just south crises. She completed three tours off San Diego's tribute to the contributions all still retained perfect, unclouded Carried in RAN Ships and Each aircraft entry is presented via a of the Broadway pier Vietnam, her aircraft downing the first of the armed services and as a dynamic, memories of events. Establishments general history of the type, its acquisition, MIDWAY Magic's fund-raising campaign three and last MiG of the war in the interactive beacon of education and A paperback, laminated. 205 page book. By Vic Cassells armament, special notes and final passed the $1.5 million mark in 1997. course of nearly 12,000 missions. More entertainment in "America's Finest City." Shipmates is illustrated throughout with Published by Vic Cassells disposal. Most of the photographs have More than 40 San Diego individuals and recently, her aircraft flew more than MIDWAY will be converted into a multi- more than 280 black and white Price: $25.00 reproduced well, with the colour section organisations have contributed $25,000 3,000 missions in Operation Desert dimensional. interactive educational and photographs, with a bibliography and mainly devoted to the RAAF's Neptunes each to the MIDWAY Project to become Storm. entertainment complex. attracting index. The book will be available in April. This book tells of the trials and and Orions and the Navy's Gannets and "Plank Owners." The second phase of visitors and residents alike as the only 1998. direct from the author at P.O. Box Through it all "MIDWAY Magic" became a tribulations of the mascots carried in the Trackers. fund-raising, the "Centurion Club." is museum of its kind on the west coast. 229 Paradise Point Queensland 4216 for living legend in the Navy because the ships and establishments of the Royal now underway. Anticipated Highlights include carrier $25 plus $5.00 postage (add $2.50 per This book comes highly recommended MIDWAY always found a way to meet her Australian Navy - and a few RN cases aircraft on display, below-deck theatre, each additional book). and at only $14.95. will not set back the A 390-page application for the use of the operational commitments. Over five where their story is pertinent in some flight simulators, touring and permanent finances too much. MIDWAY decades of service, she received the way to this country. has been submitted to the exhibits, tours through selected portions Presidential Unit Citation: Navy Unit AUSTRALIAN MARITIME PATROL Secretary of the Navy, an application that of the ship. research/historical The most eye-opening thing found by the MIDWAY Commendation; U.S. Navy & Marine AIRCRAFT AUSTRALIAN CARRIER details virtually every aspect of memorabilia centres and displays, author during his research was the extent Corps Expeditionary Medal. Navy Published by:Topmill DECISIONS: The Acquisition of Magic's operation and impact. San Diego community events and educational events. to which these mascots contributed to Occupation Service Medal; China Service HMA SHIPS ALBATROSS, was the only city to submit an application. the morale of the men. In the hundreds of Cost: $14.95 SYDNEY and MELBOURNE conversations conducted by Vic Cassells. Reviewed by Joe Straczek By: Anthony Wright the strong affection they'd had for Maritime Patrol Aircraft is a detailed Published: Maritime Studies Program 'Digger', 'Smoky'. 'Wheels'. 'Tiddles', examination of the seaplanes, flying boats Reviewed by Ross Gillett 'Durbo' and all the other remarkable and land based patrol aircraft of the creatures in this book, comes through 'THE OLD NAVY RAAF since 1922. as well as the carrier In recent years the Royal Australian Navy just as clearly 50-odd years on. borne aircraft of the Fleet Air Arm from has. through the Maritime Studies Some of the stories are funny - even 1948. 1. standeasy; Some people in the Navy maintain that an Program, regularly added to the available WHAT IS A bawdy, and others are sad. A bit like life, Twenty-five aircraft types are discussed, pool of quality publications dealing with 2. lunch; SA(V) cannot victual. Neither side have as really. But. at least, to the best of the including sixteen RAAF and seven naval STORES ASSISTANT? 3. make and mend: yet been able to prove their point. Australian naval and maritime subjects. 4. stocktaking, etc. The Mess Gear SA(V) is usually the only The 'What is a ..." navy people series was As well, the SA(S) is so trained that unless person with plenty of Mess Gear. His originally written in the late 1950s. The • AUSTRALIAN AIR POKER he is surrounded by classes, groups, stock is effectively secured by a vast set will be re-produced in 'The Navy' section, references and Forms AS I network of cobwebs that keep the ship's during 1998 upward to AS 1.000.000. he is helpless. company at bay. All SAs can do more MARITIME Speaking very generally. Stores Assistants Training also means use of the feint. Go with a sheet of paper and a pencil than issue stores - that is. if they: (I) can find to any Main Store, ask for an item and the any other sailor. This can be seen to them; and (2) have them. SA(S) will tell you to "check at the office". PATROI advantage during store ship periods. The There are two types of Stores Assistants Go to the office, ask for the same item SA has been so finely trained that he can - the "S" and the MV". and the SA(S) there will tell you to "check make the paper and pencil appear heavier . AIRCRAFT at the Main Store". SA(S) types are either myopic, liverish or than a bag of spuds. "hung over".There are known exceptions The SA(S) has many favourite sayings. to this (see "The Navy of King Alfred's Amongst the more popular being - "Do Time" Chapter 16. and the "The Life of you know the pattern number mate?" and Henry W/f Chapter 21). Other books "Have you got your AS 156?" and "We do make further references, but only haven't got any." slightingly. The SA(V) deals with food, clothing and The SA(S) insists on the indelible pencil. mess-traps. (The Trap is the 30 cents you Without it the day's work cannot begin. get slugged for at the end of each This insistence amounts almost to a fetish quarter). $ and one can imagine the SA(S) spending SA(V)s are a fine body of men. and when many a quiet hour over the private joining a ship are issued with either a collection of indelibles. The SA(S) knows seaman or stoker, or both to do the these as instruments of signature. work. Also issued on joining is the At the Supply School, the SA(S) scribblers book. Scribbling in this book undergoes rigid courses in being able to occupies most of their day, and becomes say ^t the drop of a hat and without very feverish toward the end of the SINCE blinking an eyelid) "Sorry mate, (or Sir) quarter. At this time no-one should ask but were closed for .. for either a tin of milk or a tomato. 1921

PAGE 33 PAGE I I THE NAVY THE NAVY

The publications of the MSP have been her life as a carrier was less than half continue to be sought out and referred Battlecruisers is the second in the new paper. Unfortunately, for this reviewer, the to today's technologically sophisticated ANZAC well received both nationally and originally expected. to by students of the period. Shipshape series (after The First narrative was found to be too small for class frigates, all are covered in In The British Battle Fleet Its Inception and Destroyers) from Chatham Publishing. any period of long reading. detail. internationally and represent a substantial At the end of the book, the editor David return for a small investment-The latest Growth through the Centuries. Jane traces A wonderful book which is highly The compilation of a book such as this is Stevens, has inserted a chronology Each class is broken down into individual volume in the series Papers in the development of British warships and recommended. a daunting task, thousands of ships, ships and the highlights of each ship's shewing the major milestones in the Australian Maritime Affairs is no their associated technologies. The book numerous developments and alterations career is detailed, in peace and wartime, initial decision to acquire HMS exception. succinctly describes the development of 997 to the warships. To their credit the supported by a wealth of photographs. INVINCIBLE and the subsequent JANES WAR AT SEA 18*7-1 Australian Carrier Decisions: the ships as well as some of the social authors have presented the general Many of these photographs have never The cancellation of this project and the paying 100 Years of janes Fighting Ships changes which occurred during the reader with a well balanced, by ship type been published before, a boon to the Acquisition of HMA Ships ALBATROSS. off of MELBOURNE in June. 1982. By B. Ireland and Eric Grove SYDNEY MELBOURNE period. One of the more revealing points and national navy, overview of the 100 serious student of naval history and the and by Anthony All in all, the book provides an invaluable is how during the 1680s the lot of the Published by Harper Collins years covered by the book's sub-tide. model maker. Wright was initially written in 1978 as an insight into the acquisition process, as well seamen began to deteriorate after the Reviewed by Ross Gillett internal Department of Defence study. The book is laid out in three sections. as clearly demonstrating the impact of supply of provisions and clothing was The original work was written in the The name Janes is synonymous with many AUSTRALIAN SEAPOWER The first covers the Royal Australian political decisions on this process. passed into contractors hands, something midst of the debate over whether or not things naval and has now been so for over Photofile No. 6 - FRIGATES Navy while the second examines the To my mind I can only fault this book in akin to today's Commercial Support ships of the Royal New Zealand Navy.The to replace MELBOURNE Unfortunately one hundred years. Published by Topmill two areas, the lack of footnotes in the Program. Hopefully after 310 years things third section is made up of 16 pages of once the draft manuscript had been Reviewed by Mike James first section, though this is explained in have improved. To mark the centenary of Janes Fighting colour photos, including a rare I950's completed it was not progressed with any Cose $9.95 the introduction and secondly, the lack of Ships, the Harper Collins group has colour view of HMAS QUEENBOROUGH further. That is until now! Jane is possibly one of the few authors Janes War at Sea an index. released the impressive following her modification to an anti- The book describes the processes who places the design and construction The Australian Seapower Photofile series, 1897-1997. The book is written around submarine frigate. involved and background to the decision of CERBERUS into its true historical published by Sydney's Topmill Books, has All in all this is a very valuable the development of the warship during to acquire aircraft carriers for the context The vessel designed by Sir EJ provided a convenient and economical FRIGATES would be a welcome addition contribution to the available literature on the past 100 years, centred upon the Reed was the basis of modern warships resource for the maritime enthusiast and to the bookshelf of any ship lover and RAN. In examining these decisions the the RAN and the Navy should be major eras and warship types, from layman alike. continues this excellent series. The next book also examines the decision complemented for its production. up to and beyond the famous batdeships and aircraft carriers, through DREADNOUGHT. FRIGATES book is planned to cover the corvettes, making processes and the strategic (Copies of this book are available through In essence, everything to torpedo boats and amphibious ships. continues this worthy tradition, DREADNOUGHT CERBERUS anti-submarine and mine warfare ships. background against which these decisions the Maritime Studies Program. that had. had. covering the many and various classes of The book features hundreds of high escorts that have operated in Australian FRIGATES is available through better were made. Department of Defence (CP3-4-4I) in smaller scale, some 40 years earlier. The British Battle Fleet Its Inception and quality photographs and numerous and New Zealand waters. From the first newsagents for a recommended retail In the case of ALBATROSS Dr Wright Canberra ACT 2600) Growth through the Centuries is a timeless colour profiles, all printed on glossy sloops of the pre-World War One era up price of $9.95. clearly demonstrates the problems book and one which will provide those created by the decision to acquire this THE BRITISH BATTLE FLEET: Its interested in naval affairs and warship vessel, a ship not originally included in the Inception and Growth through the development with a wealth of Five Year Plan and one for which no naval Centuries contemporary information. This book is requirement really existed. ALBATROSS By: Fred T Jane Notice is hereby given that the strongly recommended for inclusion in was a hybrid, neither capable of defending Published by Conway Maritime Press naval libraries. herself nor able to operate at speed with Review Copy from DLS the cruisers with whom she was to Reviewed by Joe Straczek ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING BATTLECRUISERS accompany. Additionally her capability of Within the area of naval history a number By John Roberts came at too great a cost to a navy of names are instantly recognisable as Published by Chatham THE NAVY LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA operating under very restricted financial having made a contribution to the wider Reviewed by Ross Gillett will be held at the Brassey Hotel, Belmore Gardens. Barton. ACT circumstances. knowledge of national or international On Friday. 13 November. 1998 at 8.00 pm If there was a benefit in the construction naval affairs. This publication brings Steaming at high speed through a North ALBATROSS, of she at least helped together two such names. One Antony Sea swell in 1917 Fisher's Splendid Cats' maintain a level of dockyard capability in Preston is such name, a renowned were indeed a splendid sight BUSINESS Australia. Not just in the context of large authority on naval affairs and contributor So reads the first narrative in the new 1. To confirm the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held in Canberra on Friday. 14 November. 1997 facilities, but also with respect to the to a number of international Journals. Chatham publication Battlecruisers. 2. To receive the report of the Federal Council, and to consider matters raised therefrom many small sub-contractors which supply The second name virtually needs no describing HM Ships TIGER, PRINCESS 3. To receive the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 1998 the myriad of small components. introduction. Fred T Jane, perhaps one of ROYAL and UON steaming in company 4. To elect Office Bearers for the 1998-99 year as follows: The second case study follows the initial the most famous navalists of the late 19th during the latter stages of the First World - Federal President attempt, late in the Second World War. and early 20th centuries. His name War. - Federal Vice President to acquire a light fleet carrier and its continues to be associated with the Designed with the speed of a cruiser and - Additional Vice Presidents (3) subsequent rejection. The matter did not international naval scene through Janes with the firepower of a batdeship. the Nominations for these positions are to be lodged with the Honorary Secretary prior to the commencement of the end here however, and in June 1947 the Fighting Ships, which he founded and the British Battlecruisers spanned an era meeting. Chrfley government decided to purchase series of journals published by the Janes from 1908 to the late 1940s, this new S. General Business: two light fleet earners from Great Britain. group. work concentrating on their origin, - To deal with any matter notified in writing to the Honorary Secretary by 2 November. 1998 This decision was based on the lessons of The publication which has bought these design, the ship's early years in service - To approve the continuation in office of those members of the Federal Council who have attained 72 ye;ir s of age. the war and the perceived requirements two names together is the re-print of and the all-important technical side of namely Arthur Hewitt (WA).Joan Cooper (Tas) and Mervyn Cooper (Tas). of what constituted a balanced fleet The Jane's The British Battle Fleet Its Inception the various classes, from INVINCIBLE two carriers acquired required extensive and Growth through the Centuries. (1908) to HOOD (1920). Also included modifications in order to operate modern Published in 1912 this book was one of in this timeframe are the large light ALL MEMBERS ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND SYDNEY aircraft The first carrier was COURAGEOUS, GLORIOUS the first to analyse the development of cruisers and By order of the Federal Council delivered as designed, but the second, the British warship.Though this book may FURIOUS. MELBOURNE, was dramatically Don Schrapel. Honorary Federal Secretary. PO Box 309. MtWaveriey VIC 3149 not by today's standards be considered as Each ship's development is well modernised. Unfortunately no decision Telephone (03) 9888 1977 Fax (03) 9888 1083 an academic work it is none-the-less an documented, with superb perspectives was made to modernise SYDNEY and so important work and one which will and cutaway drawings of each class.

PAGE 34 PAGE I I THE WAVY STATEMENT of POLICY

Navy League Of Australia • Advocates the development of a defence industry supported by strong research and design organisations The strategic background to Australia's security has changed in capable of constructing all needed types of warships and recent decades and in some respects become more uncertain. support vessels and of providing systems and sensor The League believes it is essential that Australia develops the integration with through-life support. capability to defend itself, paying particular attention to maritime defence. Australia is. of geographical necessity, a As to the RAN, the League: maritime nation whose prosperity, strength and safety depend • Supports the concept of a Navy capable of effective action to a great extent on the security of the surrounding ocean and off both East and West coasts simultaneously and advocates island areas, and on seaborne trade. a gradual build up of the Fleet to ensure that, in conjunction The Navy League: with the RAAF, this can be achieved against any force which could be deployed in our general area. • Believes Australia can be defended against attack by other than a super or major maritime power and that the prime • Believes it is essential that the destroyer/frigate force requirement of our defence is an evident ability to control should include ships with the capability to meet high level the sea and air space around us and to contribute to threats.

defending essential lines of sea and air communication to • Advocates the development of afloat support capability our allies. sufficient for two task forces, including supporting • Supports the ANZUS Treaty and the future reintegration of operations in sub-Antarctic waters.

New Zealand as a full partner. • Advocates the acquisition at an early date of integrated air • Urges a close relationship with the nearer ASEAN power in the fleet to ensure that ADF deployments can be countries. PNG and the Island States of the South Pacific. fully defended and supported from the sea.

• Advocates a defence capability which is knowledge-based • Advocates that all Australian warships should be equipped with a prime consideration given to intelligence, with some form of defence against missiles.

surveillance and reconnaissance. • Advocates that in any future submarine construction • Believes there must be a significant deterrent element in the program all forms of propulsion, including nuclear, be Australian Defence Force (ADF) capable of powerful examined with a view to selecting the most advantageous retaliation at considerable distances from Australia. operationally.

• Believes the ADF must have the capability to protect • Advocates the acquisition of an additional 2 or 3 Collins class essential shipping at considerable distances from Australia, submarines. as well as in coastal waters. • Supports the development of the mine-countermeasures

• Supports the concept of a strong Air Force and highly force and a modern hydrographic/oceanographic fleet.

mobile Army, capable of island and jungle warfare as well as • Advocates the retention in a Reserve Fleet of naval vessels the defence of Northern Australia. of potential value in defence emergency. • Supports the acquisition of AWACS aircraft and the update • Supports the maintenance of a strong naval Reserve to help of RAAF aircraft crew vessels and aircraft in reserve, or taken up for service, • Advocates the development of amphibious forces to ensure and for specialised tasks in time of defence emergency.

the security of our offshore territories and to enable • Supports the maintenance of a strong Naval Reserve Cadet assistance to be provided by sea as well as by air to friendly organisation. sates in our area. The League: • Advocates the transfer of responsibility, and necessary resources, for Coastal Surveillance to the defence force and Calls for a bipartisan political approach to national defence with the development of the capability for patrol and surveillance a commitment to a steady long-term build-up in our national of the ocean areas alt around the Australian coast and island defence capability including the required industrial territories, including in the Southern Ocean. infrastructure.

• Advocates the acquisition of the most modern armaments While recognising current economic problems and budgetary and sensors to ensure that the ADF maintains some constraints, believes that, given leadership by successive technological advantages over forces in our general area. governments, Australia can defend itself in the longer term within acceptable financial, economic and manpower • Advocates measures to foster a build-up of Australian- parameters. owned shipping to ensure the carriage of essential cargoes in war.

PAGE 36 erat The new Collins class submarine WALLER arriving al HMAS STIRLING on 21 July for pre

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