$3.50 THE NAVY January-March 1995 Print PoM Approved PP247S7W0013
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* ISSN V >> ^ ' r I 3CCOC JuUU + J. The Magaziij^ Navy Leagu^ Vol 57 No 1 \C Launcng 7 Regular Features VSLEUTH/HjRORE * .10 ^Viewpoint Dins ^lass^gdate m 13 Naval "News_.... in Sight for Royal Yacht ....15 Naval M^Hgr^ri.. Finale for DERWENT 22 HistoryTtii
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON OUR OUR FRONT COVER: ANZAC, lead and name ship for the new class of RAN frigates is launched at Williamstown on 16 September. (Photo - NPUI. COMPLETE RANGE OF FINANCIAL SERVICE AND OUR BRANCH LOCATIONS, PLEASE TELEPHONE: CORPORATE MEMBERS THE NAVY THE AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL MARITIME ASSOCIATION Editoriai enquiries to All Navy league maga/me subM ription and (02) 264 7433 COMPUTER SCIENCES OF AUSTRALIA PTY. LTD. The Editor. Ross Gillefl. membership enquiries to BTR AEROSPACE AUSTRALIA 4 Dela Close. The Hon Secretary. NSW Division. 1 cncorr UMON UD HAWKER DC HAVULAND LIMITED Dee Why NSW 2(W NAVY LEAGUE of AUSTRALIA. FAX - (02) 261 5085 ROCKWELL SYSTEMS AUSTRALIA PTY. LTD. STRANG INTERNATIONAL PTY. LTD. GPO Box 1719 Svdnov . NSW 2001 ASK FOR OUR GENERAL INFORMATION BOOKLET Copy Deadline for not issue: 20 lanuary 1995 AUSTRALIA DEFENCE CREDIT UNION LIMITED Thr opinions or iwrrliom riprrstrd m jrtkles in Thr Nj»> jrr those o(lhr 4ulhort jnd «r not nr< esurilv those ot thr Federal Counol ot Thr NJV> Iritur o( Auslralu. PO BOX 691, DARLINGHURST, 2010/26 WENTWORTH AVENUE, SYDNEY thr Edit of ot The NJ»> of The ROSJI Ainlrjlur Nav>.
Th« Navy, Januarv March 1995 1 Launch your Federal President Retires FROM OUR READERS career...
Commander Frank Geoffrey Evans obe, vrd, ranr
J 8 The Navy, January-March 1995 The Navy, January-March 1995 3 Thoughts on... THOUGHTS ON ... THE BOULTON LECTURE FFCs is a self-contained unit boasting Defence Council in December. Piracy danger in over-emphasis on the value of tracking and targeting radars, as well was an important issue, and one that the diversionary routing, and at the serious as its multi-barrelled minigun. Navy was keen to address in consultation effect on the Australian economy which THE BOULTON LECTURE However, aside from its auto mode, it with our neighbours to the north. would occur with the loss of only a few can also be used in conjunction with In conclusion he alluded to the of our coastal ships. the information being analysed in the assertion of Captain Ross that he did not The major RAN deficiency seemed to "THE DEFENCE OF MERCHANT SHIPPING ship's operations room. Here, data think the Australian Navy had sufficient be a shortage of hulls and there seemed a taken from all the ship's sensors, resources in ships or personnel to good case to ensure that the projected - WHERE TO FROM HERE" whether active, as in the case of the adequately protect merchant shipping Offshore Patrol Vessels included in their air-search radar, or passive, as in the and carry out other tasks assigned to it in capabilities that of convoy escort as was case of the SLQ-32 electronic support By RADM Andrew Robertson the Strategic Review. This may be so, but done so successfully with their WWII measures system, can be used to in Admiral Campbell's opinion we are equivalents, the corvettes (AMS). Federal Vice-President Navy League of Australia detect and analyse the threat, say, an not doing too badly. There seemed a desirability of air-launched anti-ship missile. The "The modern era is different to WWII. defining "Strategically important command team must then make a The 1994 Boulton Lecture, presented by the Company of Master Mariners of Australia with the support of Yes, the region is largely benign. Yes, shipping" and ensuring we had the rapid decision to engage the missile there is uncertainty everywhere. But capabilities to protect such shipping. In the Navy League (NSW Division), was delivered by Captain K H Ross, the recently retired Chief General with a missile of their own, fire at it our preparedness and readiness have this regard the major role of the RAAF Manager Towage and Salvage Division of Howard Smith Industries Rty Ltd, at the Masonic Centre Sydney with their main armament, commence never been better - and No, we are must not be forgotten. There seemed on Thursday 18 August. evasive manoeuvring, engage it with not guilty of preparing to fight it like much importance in area control in view CIWS, attempt to decoy it by firing the last war. of the shortage of hulls for individual chaff or, in the most likely chain of escort. he subject of the Lecture was "The the RAN will potentially have to defend a This list is by no means exhaustive; a "The next war will be ... who can events, a combination of all these Defence of Merchant Shipping - series of harbours and anchorages, detailed breakdown of the threats sayi But it will not be plodding There was much concern at the actions. Regretfully the solution of Where To From Here" «ind some offshore oil and gas fields, shipping lanes, envisaged in the context of a short- convoys to Murmansk or island- downgrading of ASW on the basis that T and the economic exclusion zone, as warning conflict will be outlined in the arming merchant vessels is an 130 people attended including officers of hopping in the Pacific. But, as it has the last Strategic Review seemed far too impractical one. I wish the solution the current course of the RAN Staff well as protect the shipping transiting to, forthcoming Defence White Paper. been since the beginning, it is bound narrow in defining Australia's Area of were that simple, however, in reality, College. from and within Australian waters. He However, its predecessor in 1987 argued to have a high cost in the blood of Direct Strategic Interest. It thus ruled out your vessels are large, An address in reply was delivered by queried, however, whether we faced an that even these short-warning conflicts merchant and naval seamen alike." the capabilities of major Indian Ocean unmanoeuvrable targets that would be the Deputy Chief of Naval Staff. RADM insurmountable problem. would be very demanding for the The lively panel discussion which and Western Pacific maritime forces. It difficult to miss with today's David Campbell AM who spoke on the We don't face the sort of threats of maritime component of the ADF. The followed supper produced a large seemed inconceivable that there could technology." naval view of this important matter. World War 2 and the Strategic Review White Paper stated: number of questions expanding on many be a major upheaval in SE Asia without Following a much enjoyed supper 1993 paints an entirely different picture. Our force structure priorities are He then went on to highlight the fact of the points made and concentrating involving in some way the interests of break, a panel discussion was held, Since 1986 Australian strategic guidance guided by the more credible situations that Australia would not simply adopt a largely on the Naval presentation and India, China or lapan or all three. chaired by RADM Robertson. This was has had a very strong maritime flavour. requiring the protection of shipping in defensive posture. The strategic guidance piracy. Though all are benign at present and all followed by closing remarks by the Although there are uncertainties in our coastal waters and in our focal areas also supported this potential course of There was concern at the are our friends, future alignments and Admiral and Captain Norm Mackie, region, the fact remains that our region is and ports. We require significant action. downgrading of the apparent importance developments could not be foretold. Sydney Branch Master of the Company of fundamentally benign. Australia cannot forces to defend against this While the broad political of anti-submarine warfare in view of the The need to improve co-ordination Master Mariners of Australia. prepare for every eventuality but our contingency, which would be very considerations might caution against a submarine capabilities of a number of and understanding between the Navy In broad outline, the theme of the current defence planning is focused demanding for our maritime forces policy of retaliation, its prospective countries bordering the Indian and West and Merchant Marine was fully Boulton Lecture was that the RAN is now heavily on threat perceptions that we because of the distances involved and advantages, both as a means of deterring Pacific Oceans, and the impossibility of supported and it was suggested that in too small to be able to provide a believe are realistic and can withstand the dispersion of our focal areas. an attack, or if that fails, deterring foretelling the future. order to combat piracy, as well as reasonable level of defence of Australian rigorous intellectual scrutiny. In this environment, a naval strength escalation, reinforce the need for In the closing remarks a number of international action, some form of "riding merchant shipping in time of hostilities Admiral Campbell stated that of 17 major surface combatants (3 capabilities providing the option for a important aspects were raised. shotgun" defensive parties may need to (taking into account its other tasks); that regarding submarine warfare in our region DDGs, 6 FFGs, and 8 Anzacs), retaliatory response. The defence of merchant shipping has be considered if the situation complemented by the enhanced the crews of merchant ships are now so of direct strategic interest only one Admiral Campbell agreed that there always been a central role of naval forces deteriorated seriously. There was also a capabilities envisaged for the Fremantle reduced that they have little capability to country - Indonesia - has a submarine were problems in communications from Roman times. Sometimes this has call to consider a naval presence in the class patrol boat replacements - assist in defending themselves; that the capability, operating two type 209 between warships and merchant vessels been achieved by arming merchant Australian Maritime College to facilitate currently designated as Offshore Patrol lack of radio officers means that submarines. Clearly, even if Indonesia had and that there was some drifting apart of ships, sometimes by convoy and liaison. Vessels - should provide ample maritime communications between warships and the intent to wage a campaign similar to the two services. He outlined the reasons escorting, and often by a combination of Altogether the Boulton Lecture support to combined operations. This is merchant vessels will be more difficult: Doenitz's against Australian merchant for this and the measures now being measures. We should not forget the provided an occasion to air a matter of without taking into account the maritime and that the two services have drifted shipping they do not have the capability. taken, particularly with Reserves. A submarine activity around our coasts in much concern to all who have an strike capabilities of six Collins class apart over recent years, with an apparent Another world war at this point in time is detailed briefing on piracy was being WWII and its major effect on defence interest in the maritime aspects of the submarines, F/A-18 and F-lll strike lack of contact. not a credible contingency. It is not our arranged for the Australian Shipping measures. There was concern at the defence of Australia. aircraft, and even P3Cs equipped with Consideration should therefore be government policy any longer to send Harpoon missiles. given to having the means to equip Australian troops to fight overseas in the adequately merchant ships for defence. context of any notion like Imperial The government's first priority in the Naval and merchant personnel should be Defence. UN peace-keeping operations Force Structure Review was mine able to work together in the normal are radically different. countermeasures. As well, over $1 With Compliments from... course of their duties and this must be The force structure of the Australian billion will be invested in procuring six fostered. Defence Forces is focused on providing a proven Italian designed minesweepers In reply. Admiral Campbell made the defence of Australia against short- and upgrading the facilities of the mine BRUCK TEXTILES PTY LTD point that the historical and traditional warning conflicts. Threats in this sort of warfare centre at HMAS Waterhen. view of the importance of merchant environment may include: Admiral Campbell then outlined the shipping to Australian defence was not so • Small lodgements of enemy forces great difficulty of arming merchant 159 Victoria Parade, Abbotsford, Vic 3067 relevant in 1994. However the protection on Australian soil; vessels for defence in modern warfare of shipping, offshore territories and • Mining of Australian waters - noting the complexity and cost of the resources is potentially the most either harbours or shipping lanes; equipment needed. SUPPLIERS OF QUALITY PRODUCTS TO THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY demanding task facing the Australian • Infringements upon the EEZ or "Ship's defensive measures are far Defence Force and could require the Australian coastal waters; more complex now than in 1944. Telephone: (03) 417 7177 sustained deployment of forces over • Harassment of offshore resource They include a combination of extended distances. He accepted that fields; and sensors, fire-control systems and Facsimile: (03) 419 7420 Australia suffered from a low "force to • Destruction of beacons and other weaponry. For example the Phalanx space ratio" and that in time of conflict navigational aids. close-in-weapons systems fitted to our
4 The Navy, January March 1995 Ttie N*rf, lamurv-Marrii 1W5 5 ANZAC Launching
REPORT YOUR INJURY NOW! By Antony Underwood
ANZAC - first of class of new Australian and New Zealand ships - slipped eagerly into the water off If you ore injured during your Army service, including training, it is most important that you formally Trans field's Williamstown shipyard on September 16. report your injury by completing Form PM24 - Report of on Injury or Illness - Army. hief Executive Officer of Transfield Groans briefly traced the history of the two ships Shipbuilding, Dr John White, The significance of ominous groans which previously bore the name, first the It you believe any miury 01 illness you suKei is in some way related to your Army service ond you ore concerned it moy affect your future service ot leisure Ccalled for three hearty cheers from and creaking from the launch cradle from 1600 ton destroyer leader presented to activities, it is in your interest to submit a claim lor compensation by completing o an enthusiastic crowd after ANZAC had the start of the ceremony was not lost on Australia by the United Kingdom in 1919 form ABI68- Cbmfa Rehabilitation and Compensation assumed an impatient mind of her own Dr White or the thousands who attended and then the 3500 ton Battle Class early in the launch ceremony. the launch. destroyer launched at the (then) With Transfield's shift horn blaring and With the bow of the ship towering Williamstown Naval Dockyard on August these forms ore ovoiloble through your Orderly Room ond your local administrative staff can assist you in completing the focms. company riggers throwing streamers from above the dais, Dr White introduced the 20, 1948 which served two tours of duty the bow towering above the dais, Chief of Naval Staff, Head of Transfield in the Korean War and in the Malayan ANZAC III slipped easily into Port Phillip and Mr Keating. Emergency. Detailed information of your rights ond entitlements under the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988 as amended by the Military Bay to be "rounded up" by tugs loitering Chief of Naval Staff VADM Rod Taylor It was as a training ship, however, that Compensation Act 1994 ore contained in Defence Instruction (General) PERS 271 filed as ARMY PERS 48-1. at a respectful ANZAC II was distance from the remembered by slipway. presently serving Claims for compensation ore administered by Compensation and Rehabilitation Staff at the Defence Centre m you State or territory Should you have any She rode easily members of the enguines about compensation contact your local Defence Centre - Compensation ond Rehabilitation Section on the following numbers on the gentle swell, RAN: many senior high in the water officers of today's with some 1500 RAN had their first tons of completion seagoing Townsville - (077) 216157, Brisbane - (07) 226 2826, Sydney - (02) 266 2280, material and experience equipment to be onboard her and Melbourne - (03) 282 6860, Hobart - (002) 37 7288, Adelaide - (08) 293 9471, added before sea VADM Taylor Perth • (09) 311 2414, Darwin - (089) 80 1211. trials begin. served as Her entry to Port Navigating Officer Phillip was followed in ANZAC II in the by two thundering period 1962-64. flypasts by four S70B2 Seahawk Technology Proud Suppliers to the R.A.N. helicopters from He said choice RAN 816 Squadron, of the name one on either side of ANZAC with the a sparkling motto United We aerobatics display Stand - symbolised by the seven Pilatus the continuing PC9 aircraft of the commitment of Todaytech RAAF Roulettes Australia and New Computers (Canberra) Pty. Ltd. precision aerobatics Zealand to regional ANZAC on the slipway prior to launching. (Photo - NPU). COMPUTERQUEST team. security. It was entirely Shop 5 ANZ Building. fortuitous also VADM Taylor added, that OF CANBERRA 12 Moore Street. LTCOL Vivian Statham better known as Canberra City. ACT. 2600 Sister Bullwinkel - who had displayed TOSHIBA such strength and compassion as a nurse captured by the enemy during World War i II, should play such an important part as ATOSMIM Computer launch lady for the ceremony. "On behalf of your Navy, I look Equipment forward with high expectations towards Professionals accepting this ship into service". ^r One of the two joint chairmen of 5-STMt DEALER Transfield, Mr Franco Begiorno-Nettis, Quality Computers at Affordable Prices traced the establishment of the company Telephone when he and fellow engineer and chairman. Carlo Salteri, arrived from Italy in 1951 to build power transmission lines (06) 288 4377 in the field to brighten the future of Shops 4 & 5,14 Briefly Street. communities which had been plagued by blackouts, spread across the vast Weston, ACT 2611 distances of Australia. FACSIMILE (06) 288 4526 "Now we have this combination of steel and technology becoming a ship - 1994 AUST & NZ TOSHIBA DEALER OF THE YEAR The ANZAC launch block. Launching dates for the other units of the class will be inscribed into almost a sculpture ... a living sculpture," the timber as the ships are completed. (Photo • NPU). he said. "It is a great day."
6 lhr Navy, |jnujrv Mjrch 1995 The Navy, January-March 1995 7 ANZAC LAUNCHING
Achievement Transfield nas Construction and Technologies Divisions as well as one for Shipbuilding and construction sites in Newcastle. Adelaide, Cockburn Sound (WA) and Whangarei in New Zealand's North Island. It employs more than 6000 people including more than 2000 in Victoria alone.
HMAS SYDNEY passes her new "running mate". (Photo
ANZAC LAUNCHING
"We build good ships," he said This achievement, Mr Keating said, Sweden for the command and weapons proudly, "- at a profit if we can, at a loss should make Australia a more confident, system. if we must." assertive country able to compete with Known as a man to have his say, the The Prime Minister described the the best in the world. Prime Minister recognised that the 2035 launch as a great day for Australia and He noted that the ANZAC ships are tonnes of steel towering above his head New Zealand. being constructed in the modular form were on the point of rapid escape "The class of ANZAC ships not only in line with the modern notion of towards the water. He cut short his underlines the shared conditions of shipbuilding with superstructures remarks with the smiling observation that sovereign nations but shows as a product being constructed in New Zealand, "this bit of moving sculpture ... seems to of both - a callaborative project between some modules in Newcastle and want to move". gearboxes assembled in Wollongong all Australia and New Zealand." he said. "It Principal Naval Chaplains led prayers being brought together for final underlines both countries' belief in their and pronounced an ecumenical blessing assembly as ANZAC ships at shared destiny and that no task is too over ANZAC before also curtailing their Williamstown. technically difficult. part in the ceremony - short of singing The Prime Minister congratulated "It also underlines that Australia and the Navy Hymn - to allow Launch Lady Transfield staff - "the men and women New Zealand are technically LTCOL Statham to perform her brief but who have given so much of themselves" sophisticated countries and that we can important duties. do things other countries can do. Part of Blohm and Voss of Germany whose She swiftly named the first of the this is to build and furnish our own Meko 200 design is the basis of the Navy Seahaw ANZACs, smashing the champagne bottle weapons and systems to go with them." ANZAC ships, and CelsiusTech of new ANZAC. (Photo - NPU). against the bow and calling "God Bless Her and all who sail in her" as the irresistible force gathered momentum to plunge into her natural element. Close up view of the new frigate. (Photo - NPU).
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Tugs from Melbourne come alongside lo move ANZAC to her fitting out berth. (Photo NPU)
The Navy, January-March 1995 9 8 The Navy, January-March 1995 Wolf relayed a message about her trip to the Pacific upon return to Germany while captured crew from Malunga told of her demise by throwing overboard notes in a sealed bottle. The Navy Board's fears about Australia's exposed shores had been substantiated, but they now had to become more serious about their defence plans. Sleuth was ordered back to Sydney, and a coastal steamer Mourilyan put in her place. Sleuth was made tender to the training ship HMAS Tingira. teaching cadets steering and navigation and towing targets for gunnery practice. Bui she was shown to be of little use even in these mundane tasks because frequently she broke down. Sleuth was offered, lor sale and. no doubt, it was a relieved Navy Board which decommissioned her in 1920 when a buyer was found. Renamed Ena and refitted in her original finery, she passed through several (Above) Underway in Sydney Harbour. hands until the early 19 30s when a (Below) Aerial perspective shows off the boats Hobart trader. Captain Walter Driscoll, The steam yacht [NA, when owned by Mr T.A. Dihbs. fine lines and bought her. Driscoll and a group of local businc •ssmen had j)lans lo use Lna lo cart apples and other produce Irom the Huon and Derwent River valleys, despite the fact thai she had little space above or ErsiA below decks. His plans foundered when a restraint of trade suit was issued by jam-maker Henry Jones IXL. Laid up for Hy AI tin Deans - Photography by David Moore years in Hobart. Ena eventually was Ixjught by three brothers who wanted to make their fortune fishing for lobsters and reserves under the command ol scallops. The Roches rep laced the steam Lieutenant lames Capstick-Dale. Sleuth engine with a Gardiner diesel. fitted her On 8 October 1994, Hamilton Publishing of Sydney released the new book, was ordered to intercept traffic passing with water tanks to hold live fish and ENA, the story of the 1900 vintage steam yacht of the same name, launched in through the strait and to inspect their christened her Aurore. She worked Sydney in 1900 and commissioned by the Royal Australian Navy in 1917. mail. Anything suspicious was to be successfully in the stormy waters of the Renamed HMAS SLEUTH and converted to a patrol boat for service in the reported by telegraph. Southern Ocean for a succession of Torres Strait, the 108 ton craft was armed with a lone three pounder gun and owners for 40 years. But, one calm night painted the traditional naval grey. However, the story of this remarkable steam Sleuth may have provided peace of in the early winter of 1981 while yacht was more than her three short years in commission with the "senior mind lor a worried Naval Board, but she motoring up the middle of service". offered precIOUS little else. Frequently she ran aground on the uncharted coral D'Entrecasteaux Channel on her way Author Alan Deans has thoroughly researched the career of this now 85 year outcrops which proliferate in the straits, back to port, Aurore met her fate for a old veteran, the resultant book, costing $49.50 and spanning more than 80 and she and her crew became the butt ol succession of owners. pages of narrative is accompanied by numerous historical and restoration jokes among those garrisoned at Her owners at the time, Noel and refloating, meantime, had reached the illustrations. Thursday Island. Within months of Geoff Harper, say it was all over in a ears of a Sydney businessman. Pat Burke, From the camera of well known photographer David Moore, the book is arriving. Capstick-Dale sent two urgent matter of minutes. Alerted by a deckhand who was keen to buy a stately, old brought to life via a series of more than sixty black and white and colour signals to the commode re at Garden who wa* awoken from his sleep in the pleasure cratt. Satisfied as to the pedigree images, all reproduced on the finest stock of quality paper. David approached, Island. The lirst said that Sleuth could not lore cabrn by a huge thump, Noel Harper of Aurore and happy thai she could be followed, searched through, walked under and flew over all parts of the ENA in Sydney. The restoration was completed in keep course thanks to the dangerous tides found the engine room filling rapidly repaired. Burke arranged to buy her and a successful photographic task to capture the beauty and spirit of the yacht, the time for Ena to be part of the official and winds, and he asked that the patrol with water. The crew barely had time to she was towed to Sydney. resultant illustrations bringing the ship to life in almost every nautical aspect. review on October 4. 198b. held to duties be assumed bv a "lull bodied radio for help and heave free the dinghies The restoration took three years to celebrate the seventy-fifth anniversary of The following article on the ENA ex AURORE, ex HMAS SLEUTH, ex ENA motor vessel with high speed". The before she went down in 30 metres of complete. Master boatbuilder Nick the Royal Australian Navy. was prepared by the author for The Navy Magazine. second signal indicated that the crew water, the lights burning lor a long while Masterman researched Ena's background EDITOR But the story does not end there. The were on the brink of mutiny and had after the last ripple had disappeared. The carefully to ensure that she would be as stockmarket collapse of 1987 left Pat refused to go to sea because "the ship is next day, a sea and air search was she was when owned by Dibbs. He Burke in dire financial straits, although totally unsafe". He asked that the reserves mounted for signs of Aurore and a buoy found parts of the old vessel in Hobart. his two panners in the boat - Rene Rivkin be replaced by permanent ratings. was spotted under the surface marking ustralia was left unprotected and vessel chosen was banker Sir Thomas stripped off her during the 1940s when and David Baffsky - pulled through. Ena where she sank. The Harpers dived vulnerable in 1916 alter the big Dibb's steam yacht Ena. 100 feet in The commodore, however, had other converted for use as a fishing boat. A had been mortgaged to repay funds to down, and found the boat with barely a guns of the Ruyal Australian length and built for luxurious day trips on more urgent matters on his mind. The new steam engine had to be made from Burke's company and, when the loan was A mark, having keeled over onto her holed Navy's fleet were ordered to the waters of Sydney Harlx>ur. island trader Malunga had mysteriously patterns taken from the disused ferry defaulted on. she was seized by the bank. port side They decided that, with the use the Atlantic and Indian oceans. There It was a sign of the desperation of the disappeared on a trip to Rabaul, and Excella, and a boiler fabricated. All of the An outraged Rivkin tried unsuccessfully of buoyancy bags, they would refloat her. was evidence that Germany was times that Ena. eventually refitted with a there was evidence that a German original wooden, brass and gold-plated to buy her back, but to no avail. preparing to attack targets in the Pacific, three-pound Hotchkiss gun mounted on raiding vessel. Wolf, had been in After months of dangerous work fixtures had to be recreated. Dozens of Eventually Ena was sold at auction to a skilled crasftsmen were employed, and so the Navy Board issued an urgent her foredeck and renamed HMAS Sleuth, Australian waters laying mines. Sleuth during the winter of 1981, Aurore was private company which today maintains the work co-ordinated in many different request that suitable merchant craft be was chosen to patrol the treacherous remained on station while a fruitless hunt refloated and towed to Victoria Dock in her as an elegant charter boat on Sydnev foundries, sheds and docks around found to guard Australian waters. One waters of the Torres Strait. Crewed by for both ships was carried out. Eventually. Hobart. News of the sinking and Harbour.
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J 8 The Navy, January-March 1995 The Navy, January-March 1995 12 End in Sight for Royal Yacht
BRITANNIA will cease to rule the waves in 1997. The Royal Yacht is to be decommissioned after more than 40 years of service and over a million miles at sea.
aking the announcement. Defence Secretary Malcolm MRifkind praised the "outstanding contribution" made by the Royal Navy's oldest active vessel. He said it reflected the great care and professionalism which the Royal Navy and, in particular, the Royal Yacht's successive ship's companies had devoted Royal Yacht. HMS BRITANNIA, at Circular Quay in Sydney, (Photo KAN' to her. The original decision to build HMY point, together with other options for making no comment on the speculation. Britannia was taken in 1938. She was to meeting the tasks presently tulfilled by While recognising the need for be a vessel fit to carry a King Emperor to Britannia." change a £17m refit in 1996 would his colonies and dominions. Now the Feelings at Westminster vary only have extended Britannia's Government is to consider the question enormously. Mr Barry Field, Tory MP for seaworthiness for five years the Royal of whether to replace her at all. the Isle of Wight, claimed "Britain Family will feel a tinge of sadness at the 8 Mr Rifkind said, "The Queen has without Britannia is like the Tower decommissioning. made it known that in the light of without the Crown Jewels". The ship has supported state visits to ORACLG changes in the pattern of Royal visits While Mr Alan Williams. Swansea more than 135 countries and has called since the Yacht was built she does not West's Labour MP, said. "At a time when a» 600 j)orts. as well as acting as a private Proud Contractor to the R.A.N. consider a Royal Yacht to be necessary in we are cutting defence expenditure and holiday home for the Royal Family at IMPORTERS AND DISTRIBUTORS future solely for the purposes of royal axing hospital beds, the idea of a Cowes Week and during the Queen's travel. replacement for Britannia would be too annual Western Isles cruise. OF ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS "Nonetheless, in view ot the success grotesque." The Queen will be consulted on Oracle is a leading supplier of information management of Britannia in her representational role Millionaire businessman Sir Donald future j)lans for the vac ht. Mr Ritkind said software. Oracle develops and markets the Oracle? family during state visits, and on other state Gosling, a former Royal Navy rating and "a usetul f>urf)ose" would be sought for of software products for database management; trusted Computer Memory Upgrades, Penta Labs occasions, and of the part played by the now and Honorary Captain of the Royal Britannia. Royal Yacht in trade promotion, the Naval Reserve, is rejjorted to be a leading Sfieculation has begun that she might Oracle? for secure database management, the Cooperative (USA) Electron Tubes, Satellite Receiving Government believes it right to consider, member of a consortium ot companies be turned into a museum, possibly on the Development Environment (CDE), a complete set of Equipment, Computer, TV & VCR Spare without commitment, whether there prejiared to chip in £5 million each to Thames or on the Clyde where she was CASE and application development tools lor should be a replacement at some future provide a new royal yacht. He was built. Parts, Cellular Phone Accessories. enterprise-wide, client/server computing; and Oracle Cooperative Applications, packaged client/server solutions Capacitors, Connectors. IC's etc.. for commercial accounting, manufacturing, distribution, Microwave Oven Spare Parts, 3M Static Proud Contractors to the RAN government accounting, human resources and project Protection Products. control. Oracle software runs on personal digital assistants. PCs. workstations, minicomputers, mainframes, and DAWSON INDUSTRIES KC^MII massively parallel computers. PTY LTD [ei-Ed Tronic: | 484 Albany Highway, Victoria Park, WA 6100 ORACLE (03) 819 2466 Telephone: (09) 470 4000 • Facsimile: (09) 362 2905 Oracle Systems (Australia) Pty. Umited SKANDIA ELECTRONICS PTY LTD 17 Tomans Street. Braddoa ACT 2601 183 Burwood Rd„ Hawthorn Ph (061247 9366 Fax: (06) 257 4806 "A Recommended Service" Fax (03) 819 4281 •wwMw.f. "mtMHguminpn,.
14 rhf Navy, January-Mirth 1995 The Navy, lanuary-March 1 "MS 15 Rockwell jjrojJLj TIMKES $ NAVAINEWS
n ___ midland —• In service the ship will held at the Heet Base East in New Helicopter Ship have a top speed in excess of Woolloomooloo Bay. The CAT s^ SHfe F.T-W ® 20 knots, embark up to four Minister for Defence Senator Arrives helicopters and provide Robert Ray attended the event onboard accommodation for to accept the new ship and to MARINE SEALS over 400 persons, plus young men and women, the officially welcome for MAS KANIMBLA. the stowage space for landing arrival in Sydney was the KANIMBLA into the Fleet, the second ol the RAN's craft and military vehicles. It Rudder Stocks, occasion tor the long awaited new Training and is also planned to establish a latter having been formally Forward Slcrn Shafts. H re-union between the crew commissioned in America last Helicopter Support Ships 100 bed hospital with the and their lamilies and Iriends. AFT Stern Shafts. associated surgery and August. sailed into Sydney Harbour on alter almost ten months in the off the Benz shelf! intensive care support. MANOORA will remain Bulkhead and Friday, lb November. USA. laid up inactive, until |uly. Your local Benz. BeniFrelghtllne Truck Dealers carry: on-bourd pumps On 25 November, the Pretghtlirer Truck Dealer . Hockwe«/Eaton differential parts .Eaton axle & Fuller THSS MANOORA was when she will begin has all the b.g names in transmission parts . Detroit'Cumm,ns/Caterp.llar eng.ne pans John Crane Australia Pty. Ltd. formally commissioned as conversion, with her sister American drtve line pans .Sp*er drive line parts. Sp*ef/RockweH clutch parts to surt the most tight HMAS at a major ceremony ship, to the new roles. .Rockwell ax,es .A range of brake hrnngs an,' brake drums Engineered Seating Systems ftsted operator • exhaust stacks and lubricants to Suit most American trucks PO Box 200 Bankstown 2200 Mercedes-Benz (Aust) Pty.Ud., Hm-on* Parts Distribution COTtr* 166 Eldndge Road. Bankstown 2200 Mercedes Becz 75 Airtord Av«rx* MILPFHRA 22i« Telephone (02) 709 2288 New Hydrographic (02) 771 1500 Facsimile (02) 707 4327 Ships
he year 1995 will mark proposals including ship specifications. design SYDNEY TRUSTS the 75th anniversary of J.R. Tthe Royal Australian proposals, etc. Companies Navy's Hydrographic Branch. contracted at this stage ol the EMBROIDFRIFS Over the years the RAN project include: manned numerous survey, a. Transfield Shipbuilding: 72-76 Fenton Street hydrographic and ocean- b. Australian Submarine UTTONS ographic ships. Beginning in Cor|>oration; and Huntingdale Vic 3166 ARNCLIFFE 1924 HMAS GERANIUM c. TNH (a consortium commenced operations and comprising Thyssen. USS FAIRFAX COUNTY arrives in Sydnev on 19 September for Specialists in then in 1925 the first HMAS NOEA and HDWl handover to the RAN. (I'hoto - C hns Momssou) SUTTONS MOTORS • Embroidery by the metre MORESBY entered service. Each ot the three proposed OPEN 7 DAYS AUSTRALIA'S No.1 HOLDEN GROUP • Allover Embroidery The 8,300 ton ship had In early 1995. KANIMBLA Today's "fleet" is led by the designs are for ships of • Badges • vokes departed Norfolk in Virginia. is expected to begin her first veteran HMAS MORESBY III! approximately 75 metres in length and a displacement of • Pockets • Collars USA on 18 Oc tober are Ix-ing training cruise and then operating out ol HMAS Stirling purchased from the United in Western Australia. HMAS 2500 tonnes. Each survey ship See the team at Suttons Arncliffe lor a great range ol . Culls • Guipure participate in exercise Tasman States Navy, along with her Link with other Fleet units In FLINDERS operating trom will embark three 10.7 metre New and Used Vehicles, quality Spare Parts and • Iron on Motifs sislership MANOORA i,irriu-(l mid year she is sc heduled to Cairns and the lour newly survey motor boats plus one excellent Customer Service. on 19 September). commence a conversion to the commissioned survey motor intermediate size helicopter. If It's Embroidery For Commander Glenn role ol training and helicopter launches. HMA Ships Both of the new ships will be We Can Do It Curran and his crew of 180 support ship. PALUMA. MERMAID. Darwin based, with a planned 93 Princes Highway, Arncliffe NSW 2205 SHEPPARTON and BENALLA. operating schedule of 300 days per year per ship. To Telephone also homeported in Cairns. Telephone: (02) 599 3666. Fax: (02) 599 3827 The Navy is currently in the meet this demanding (03) 544 6777 process of investigating how schedule, three crews will be required to man the two PROUD SUPPLIERS TO THE R.A.N. Facsimile (03) 562 8372 best to replace the older tonnage, with the project team ships. formed for four years lo The three competing devleop plans for the next proposals will be reviewed generation survey vessel to with two contracts placed with satisfy this most important the successful tenderer, the naval task. first for the construction of the The decision to build two ships and the second for new hydrographic ships for follow-on support. The lead Kelly's survey ship is expected to be the Royal Australian Navy was officially announced on 10 delivered in December 1997 May 1994 as one of six major with the second in December Providores capital equipment projects 1998. approved in the 1994-95 Following the comm- Defence Budget. Selection of issioning of the new vessels, Wholesale Fruit and Vegs. contending ship designs is HMAS MORESBY and HMAS currently underway with a FLINDERS will be decomm No. 8 Warehouse "H." Flemington Markets. Flemington 2129 decision on the successful ship issioned in 1997 and 1998 Ph: 764 3725 A.H: 533 2790 FAX: 746 2206 expected late 1995. respectively. MORESBY 33 Proud Suppliers of Fruit &. Vegetables to the R.A.N. USS FAIRFAX COUNTY, secured to a naval buoy. Note the size of the To date three contracts years of service completed bow horns and the single close-in-weapons-system atop her bridge. have been let for the and FLINDERS, a quarter of a 'Photo NPU) development of the competing century. 16 Th* Nav?, Mnujrv-Mjrch 1995 The Navy, January-March 1995 17 Participants will come understanding and knowledge from a variety of of the various social, political, Continued NAVALNEWS Continued HMAS PROTECTOR to NAVAli^EWS backgrounds, both from economic and military factors Australia and overseas will that influence national Deploy for Submarine Trials include Australian Defence defence and regional Mine Warfare Exercise New Defence College Force and military officers security", Senator Ray said. of the less as MV OSPREY. being renamed from countries in the region The college will provide a (glamorous ships ot the BLUE NABILLA when Opens as well as other security 46 week academic program o Royal Australian Navy, purchased by the National partners. covering: security and the HMAS STIRLING-based Safety Council of Victoria in he Minister for Defence, The aim of the college is to Senator Ray said, "The defence; international HMAS PROTECTOR has 1987. Senator Robert Ray, prepare selected defence and college will be an important security; policy formulation; commenced one ol the most After the demise of the NSC opened the Australian civil leaders for increased part of the Government's organisation and manage- important tasks in the Navy T of Victoria the ship was College of Detence and strategic, defence and emphasis on dialogue and ment; Asia and the Pacific; today, as submarine escort and purchased by the Navy on Strategic Studies at Weston security responsibilities in enhancing learning within the and regional security and safety vessel to the first of October 18. 1990 and Creek, Canberra on 27 Australia, Asia and the region. cooperation. The first intake Australia's new class of converted to its present October. Pacific. "It looks to extend of students will be in lanuary. submarines. COLLINS. configuration. PROTECTOR sailed from HMAS PROTECTOR is fitted Garden Island on October 1 2 with a full outfit ot equipment bound lor Adelaide to begin to assist in the safe recovery of New Patrol Boat to working with COLLINS. personnel and equipment in WARHORSES IN Tuvalu
RETIREMENT ustralia has presented a Patrol Boat and local support new Pacific Patrol Boat infrastructure to help meet ihe to Tuvalu. expressed needs of South Auxiliary minesweeper (small) BROLGA. (Photo • Chris Morris* A The Minister for Defence. Pacific Forum member nations Senator Robert Ray, handed for an effective means of even of the Royal Australian the auxiliary minesweepers over ihe Pacific Patrol Boa!, protecting their Exclusive Navy's mine counter (small). BROLGA, KORAAGA named HMTSS TE MATAILI, to Economic Zones. measures (MCM) vessels and BERMAGUI. and S the Prime Minister of Tuvalu, HMTSS TE MATAILI is the sailed from Sydney on 7 a clearance diving learn and the Honorable Kamula Latasi. eighteenth boat to be built for November, to begin a major shallow water mine at Ihe Transfield WA the Pacific Forum nations. exercise off (he southern New countermeasures element. Shipbuilding facility on 8 Previous vessels have been South Wales coast. From 1996. ihe MCM force October. given to Papua New Guinea The vessels participated in the in Sydney will l)e strengthened Senator Ray said, (4), Tonga (3), the Solomon MCM fleet concentration pericxl by the modernisation of the "Australia's gift of a Pacific Islands (2), Republic of FIJI (1), held in the lervis Bay area irom RAN s Mine Warlare Base at HMAS PROTECTOR, now South Australian based has been painted Patrol Boat to Tuvalu will Federated States of Micronesia 21 November to 2 December. HMAS WATERHEN. and the naval grey, replacing the former orange and red colour schemes. upgrade their national (2), Kiribati, the Republic of Exercise Dugong. a combined introduc lion ol a mine warlare The two month deployment the event ol a submarine surveillance capabilities, help the Marshall Islands, Cook Australian/' American ordnance systems centre. As .veil, the tirst - ;; _ -v ~ was the first of many over the ensure their national Islands. Western Samoa and disposal exercise few the Navy's ol six Huon class coastal accident. This includes an 1 - _ - • - - sovereignty and assist in the Vanuatu (one each)." divers was also conducted. minehunters to be built in next eight years as she works underwater telephone, diving management of valuable Under the control of the Newcastle will !*• completed in with each of Australia's six new equipment and satellite The Pacific Patrol Boat marine resources." Commander of Australian Mine 1998. submarines as they are communic ations. Project is the largest Defence Warfare and Clearance Diving For the exercise a Forward launched. Other onboard equipment The Pacific Patrol Boat Co-operation Project Force. Commander Russ Baker, Support LJnit (FSU) and mobile Commanded by West aboard PROTECTOR includes project was established in undertaken in Australia and the "fleet" comprised four types headquarters, (comprising 26 Australian Lieutenant a remote operated vehicle, 1983 to develop, in now involves 11 Pacific Island of mine countermeasures units: containers) was established al the Commander Guy Burton. sidescan sonar and a portable conjunction with regional nations and will eventually - Uvo catamaran hulled lervis Bay airfield, with the ships HMAS PROTECTOR displaces six man recompression countries, a standard design comprise 20 vessels. minehunters. RUSHCUTTEK operating from both lervis Bay 670 tonnes and carries a c hamber below dec k and SHOALWATER; and Port Kembla. Seventy complement of four officers The ship also carries an Effer iwo auxiliary minesweepers personnel were based ashore and 16 sailors. sea crane and a 10 tonne "A" National Reunion for (large) BANDICOOT and and another 90 in the MCM Constructed by Elder Prince frame to perform heavy lift WALLAROO; force afloat. (now Stirling Marine Services) operations from the sea bed in Western Australia in 1984 and for the launching and Old Sailors the ship commenced her career recovery of the ship's boats. ong standing mateships forged in the cramped Corvettes were used for Lquarters of diminutive many tasks including convoy Australian corvettes during escort work, anti-submarine Sandgroper World War II were re-lived patrols, minesweeping. recently at the 9th Annual surveying, shore bombardment, hree Royal Australian ened period of naval activity in National RAN Corvettes assault landings, transporting Navy warships carrying Western Australia waters over Association National Reunion stores/ troops. almost 800 sailors arrived the ensuing month. T held in Perth. They saw service in the at HMAS Stirling on October The ships sailed in company More than 1100 former Indian Ocean, the South West 21 for a three day operational with the guided-missile frigate sailors and their wives attended Pacific area, the Atlantic, the HMAS DARWIN on October een alongside in the Swan River at East Fremantle in visit. the National Reunion which Meditenanean, the Persian Gulf 24 to participate in Exercise Western Australia last July were two former Royal The ships were the guided- ran from October 20-23. the and some were present at the "Sandgroper '94". from Australian Navy Fairmile motor launches. At this time missile destroyer HMAS October 24 until November 4. S second to be held in WA and Japanese surrender in Tokyo Bay their RAN numbers are unknown. HOBART, guided-missile frigate Other units involved were the sadly, because of advancing in 1945. Corvettes achieved the The W. SELVILLE KENT has been converted to a HMAS SYDNEY and the WA- submarine HMAS ONSLOW, years almost certainly the last to RAN's first sinking of a Japanese houseboat configuration while PRINCESS ROYAL lex- based destroyer escort HMAS Seahawk helicopters and P3C be held in the west. submarine when HMA Ships I5LANDER V) is a former Rottnest Island and Albany ferry. TORRENS. Oiion aircraft of the Royal In excess of 20,000 sailors DELORAINE. KATOOMBA and (Photos - Vic Jeffery). The arrival signified the Australian Air Force and the served on the Royal Australian LITHGOW sank the 1-124 off The recently acquired AM(S), BERMAGUI. (Photo • Chris Morrisson). | commencement of a height- United States Navy. Navy's 56 corvettes, during the Darwin in 1942.
J 8 The Navy, January-March 1995 The Navy, January-March 1995 19 NAVALNEWS Continued NAVALNEWS Continued Major Move for Submarine Squadron
significant milestone Two Royal Australian in the implementation Navy and one United States A of Australia's Two Navy submarines berthed Ocean Navy policy was alongside. with each attained on Monday, providing a squad for the November 14 with the Opening Ceremony. A fourth Official Opening of the new combined squad came from Australian Submarine the Submarine Squadron Headquarters and the Headquarters located at Navy Sea Kings operating from HMAS STIRLING during recent Submarine Escape Training HMAS STIRLING. exercises with Fleet units. (Photo • Navy PR). Facility. At the ceremony, the Maritime Commander Australia. Rear Admiral Don Chalmers AO RAN officially opened the two storey building. In the 27 years since it was formed, the Australian Submarine Squadron Headquarters along with the Commander of the Australian Submarine Squadron and his staff have been located at HMAS Platypus in Sydney. Nine of the RAN's fifteen Fremantle class patrol boats on exercises in northern Australian waters. Closest to the camera is HMAS CESSNOCK. HMAS Platypus, I Photo RAN). previously the traditional Economic Zone is the important performance home ot Australia's responsibility of the Federal evaluation of the weeks submarines, is being slowlv Patrol Boats Practise Government agency, the concentrated efforts. run down and will close Australian Fisheries Manage- with the decommissioning of What They Do Best The participating patrol boats the last Oberon-class ment Authority. Customs Coast- were HMA Ships DUBBO, submarine in 1998. large force of the Royal IxiaLs have had plenty of recent watch co-ordinate the surveill- CESSNOCK. LAUNCESTON. Australian Navy's 15 practise at fisheries patrols and ance of the EEZ with Navy GEELONG. WOLLONGONC. The relocation of the patrol boats have saiied surveillance, but we are always acting as their response arm. and GAWLER from Darwin. Headquarters was timed to A the waters of North Australia to looking at ways to improve the The exercise concluded on HMAS IPSWICH from Cairns coincide with the practise what they do best, the way we handle our increasing 18 Noveml>er as the patrol boats and HMAS GERALDTON from commencement of Collins- protection of Australia's workload". returned to Darwin for the all Rtxkingham WA. class trials. Australia's new An impressive line-up ...... » .... „„.«„ . „„ Exclusive Economic Zone that Since early Septeml>er more generation submarines of AS rum AS and the USN super-carrier, USS SARATOGA, working together for NATO exercise stretches some 37,000 than 50 illegal foreign fishing which all six will be based at Dynamic Impact, involving 93 warships from eleven nations. kilometres around the country HMAS STIRLING vessels have !>c*en escorted into and 200 nautical miles out to Darwin and Broome for further sea, in a week long exercise that investigation into possible started on Sunday 13 November. breaches of Australia's fishing Current Contractors to the RAN With officers of the Australian laws. Fishenes Management Authority "During the exercise we not embarked, the Fremantle Class only looked at fisheries ROCKINGHAM ENGINEERING SERVICES Patrol Boats sailed from Broome. surveillance but the way patrol Unit 5, Crompton Road, Hillman, Rockingham, WA 6168 Western Australia, and Darwin boat Captains and their crews and Gove in the Northern handled their ships in multi-ship Territory. At sea they worked situations ... it's like being part Specialising in: with Coastwatch surveillance of a precision driving team, you aircraft and practised fisheries have to know what your • Precision Engineering • Pump & Machinery Overhauls surveillance techniques in multi- limitations are, what is ship situations in the waters right happening around you, and across North Australia. how to handle it". Commander • Stainless Steel & Aluminium Welding The new $12 million magnetic treatment facility (aboveI was Commander Warwick Conlin said. handed over to the RAN at HMAS STIRLING on 3 lune. The all Conlin, RAN, the Commander The protection and manage- timber facility, measuring 150m by 30m also provides a vessel Telephone (09) 592 1423 • Facsimile (09) 592 1423 of Australia's Patrol Boat Forces ment of the fisheries aspect of degaussing coil prediction function. (Photo - Navy PR) said, "Most of the Navy's patrol the Australian Exclusive
The Navy, January-March 1995 21 20 The Navy, Januarv-March 1995 I FINALE FOR DERWENT
fragmentation, limpet mine and electronic warfare series. Fire Series The aim of this series of experiments is to gain a better understanding of how fires behave onboard ships. The series involves the generation of fires onboard the Derwent using simulated missile impacts. Under investigation are the severity of such fires and their spread characteristics, particularly as a result ot unspent rocket fuel. The fire protection provided by insulating glass/plastic wall materials and The explosion and resultant fireball ripped through DERWENT's former Seacat magazine, iPhoto • Navy PR). coatings will be compared to existing steel walls. Blast and Fragmentation Series In this series, the Derwent will be Finale for Derwent subjected to a range of explosions which will simulate the effects of missiles. Naval personnel inspected the buckled Seacat magazine. The black and white grids painted on The recorded results of these the ship were for the benefit of scientists from the DSTO to assist with their measurements. | By Vic Jeffery explosions will be used to test methods (Photo - RAN). for predicting damage levels and to more accurately identify safety hazards for the The Smoke Series involved generating Electronic Warfare Series One of the highlights of the ten week series of destructive tests being carried out on the former Koyal crew. smoke from fires of varying severities in a The Electronic Warfare Series is an Australian Navy destroyer escort Derwent occurred in naval waters off HMAS STIRLING compartment on Derwent and recording additional series of tests designed to on Monday, October 17. Smoke Series the behaviour of the smoke. extend knowledge of the transmission of Smoke and high temperatures The data will be used to predict the electro-magnetic radiation across sea program - is to assist SM-l Standard associated with fires onboard a ship likely hazards to crew in real fires and to water. Results emerging out of this the Navy to enhance missile 35kg present one of the most significant improve crew training in combating such series will be used to test theoretical the combat surviv- warhead was hazards to crew. hazards. models. A ability of ships and detonated in the their crews to a former Seacat range of weapons magazine aboard and associated Derwent to simulate Proud to be Associated with the RAN threat effects. These the impact ot a threats include missile on the ship electronic inter- and allow the ference, explosive evaluation and projectiles, anti-ship measuring ot the missiles and limpet extent of resulting mines. damage. Air BP THE POWER IN The series of About HMAS destructive tests, DERWENT known as the Ship COMMUNICATION Built in Victoria's Survivability The actual moment of detonation, shows a door in the air after being blown off the vessel. Williamstown Enhancement Pieces of metal have already landed in the water. Air BP, proud suppliers of AND NAVIGATION Naval Dockyard, Program, was a joint Defence Science and Technology Derwent was launched in 1961 and Supporting the Marine Industry Royal Australian Navy/ Defence Science Jet A-1 Organisation. commissioned into the RAN on 30 April, and Technology Organisation throughout Australia with complete 1964. Now 30 years old, Derwent has to the Royal Australian Navy undertaking. communications & navigation systems The Ship Survivability been paid off to release the ship's The blast, smoke, fire and Enhancement Program company for the manning of the first of fragmentation tests were planned to assist Capabilities include: The Ship Survivability Enhancement Australia's new generation of Anzac- ship design and construction and was Ship's GMDSS Radio Stations • Autopilots Program (SSEP) is a bold new project of class frigates. Derwent's crew comprised aimed at containing battle damage and • Gyro Compasses • Inmarsat Satcom Equipment • the Defence Science and Technology some 220 officers and sailors and the enhancing the survivability of naval Air BP • Weather fax • GPS • Radar Systems ^ Organisation (DSTO) and Royal ship was originally part of a class of six ships. • Echo Sounders • Logs Australian Navy (RAN). The program vessels designated Destroyer Escorts. BP Australia Limited This was the first lime a consists of a series of fire, smoke, Former members of Derwent's crew • Telex over Radio " ' '**' decommissioned Australian warship had weapons effects and electronic have joined Navy personnel in 6/420 St Kilda Rd • VHF&l'HF Transceivers been used for this purpose and attracted experiments which will be conducted on supporting the SSEP and ensuring its • Spare Parts Back up interest from the United Kingdom, the ex-Naval ship, Derwent. The SSEP success. Melbourne Vic 3004 Canada and the USA. represents the first time that experiments Ph: (03) 268 4301 •S\dn»->: (02) 791 0704 •Brisham : (07) 3«i7 2007 A highly specialised team of 50 DSTO of this kind are being conducted on a About the Experiments •Melbourne: (03) 335 f»555 •Fremantk: (09) 11» JHM j scientists supported by naval personnel, near operational ship. This unique The experiments will be carried out Fax: (03) 820 1548 •Darwin: (OM9) 41 1 HMi •Cairns: (070) 3391 I 1 some of whom are former Derwent crew program will generate a number of on the Derwent at the Royal Australian •Tnwnsvilh : <077) 79 2099 *IM Kembla (042) 2fi 9980 members, conducted the program. benefits for Australia's defence and for Navy's Fleet Base West at HMAS •V Wiasth : (019) 52 137 The following data describing the the wider community. The major STIRLING. The program is spread over a SSEP (Ship Survivability Enhancement outcome - and the focus of attention for 10 week period and is divided into four AWA - 80 Years of Innovation Program) is reproduced courtesy of the over 50 DSTO personnel working on the series - the fire and smoke, blast and
22 The Navy, January-March 1995 Th» Navy, January-March IWS 23 NAVAL MATTERS NAVAL MATTERS
possible contenders. France, Sweden, Germany and Russia would b the main contenders however bids from China, South Korea and possibly the Australian Submarine Corporation with the Collins class cannot be discounted. As with all such purchases the problem will be in convincing sceptical politicians that maintaining the capability is worth the price The new patrol-corvette program is a requirement for a minimum of four 1.500-3.000 ton offshore patrol vessels (OPV). These ships are to be ASW capable and should be lx*tler able to withstand the very rough seas enc ountered off South Africa. It is envisioned that they would lx- fitted with Skerpion SSM's and a hanger and flight deck capable ol operating a medium sized helicopter such as the Aerospatiale Puma already in Naval service. As four vessels would be inadequate for the size of the task it can be expected that additional orders would follow, either for further OPV's or for more a capable frigate class. Given the international interest generated from shipbuilders for the similar Malaysian OPV requirement it can be expected that bidding for this contract will be equally fierce. The SAN insistence on an absolute maximum of South African content may prove a deterrent to some however. The resurrection of a true blue-water capability is a prioritv for the South African Government and Navy. Defence Minister |oe Modise has stated that "Our major problem is the Navy, whose strike craft are very near the end of their service lives, with some of them beginning to sutler metal latigue. The patrol- «( omul met*c, U RHOTN MAN II R,.,I corvettes program will partly address this problem The real question in this ambitious expansion is whether the South African economy can support the government's ambitious social justice program and leave anything for the Navy's long overdue revitalisation. The continuing unrest in the country points to difficult times and rough water ahead for the South The South African Navy Afric an Navy. AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE? Minister c 24 The Naw. lanuarv-March 1995 Th* Naw lanuar.-March 199S 25 HISTORY REVISITED Contractors to Garden Island Naval Base WE'LL DO ANY DEAL TO BE NO. 1 D'Orsogna Ltd Suppliers of: Premium Smallgoods, Hams and Bacon Cnr Leach Highway & Slock Road. Melville. 6156 Telephone: (09) 337 3444 Facsimile: (09) 314 1380 Hunter Holden & 0 New Hunter Holden are proud to support The Navy & OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS 10 IHE DEP1 OF DEFENCE THE DEFENCE * SERVICES • See Peter Thompson for your Defence Discount CABLEXm i r o Monufoclurers of looms X Assemblies in line with AS3902 ~ Hunter Holden ^ Suppliers of Military Connectors and Accessories New Hunter Holden ^ 3/6 Burgess ltd. Boywola Vtto™ 3153 603 VICTORIA ROAD RYDE 808 9123 446 PACIFIC MWY CROWS NEST 436 0008 Telephone (03) 7T90039fix "0)7187147 J 8 The Navy, January-March 1995 The Navy, January-March 1995 26 American Naval Strength AMERICAN NAVAL STRENGTH Aircraft Carriers Table v 3 Force Structure • Command. Control, and Communications 28 The Navy, January-March 1995 11* Nav>, lanoarvMarch 199S 29 the Japanese. It is an intensely AMERICAN NAVAL STRENGTH BOOK personal story of survival and courage. Whiting has interwoven a system using a 5-inch-diameter surface-to-air missile Operation Desert Storm and subsequent deployments. The personal story of life aboard (SAM) - will be an effective point defence system against FYDP continues ongoing reductions in the active MPA PERTH with a clear account of the cruise missile threat. During the coming year. RAM force from 24 to 13 squadrons, while holding reserve the ship's history and procurement will begin lor future installation in DD-9b3s. strength at the FY 1994 level of 9 squadrons. Together, operations to make FFG-7s, and LSDs. An additional layer of air defence, the these steps will enhance the integration of reserve forces, compelling reading. Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS), will be enhanced permit the early retirement of reserve P-3Bs, and reduce The Battle of the Java Sea, through computer hardware and software upgrades. A costs as the entire MPA force shifts to a common P-3C in which PERTH was involved, new version of the NATO Sea Sparrow Missile, called the airframe. The Navy expects to operate its P-3Cs to 40 clearly demonstrates what can Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile 'ESSM), is being developed years and is studying additional extensions to about 50 happen when inexperienced for potential installation on several ship classes. The years. With P-3Cs no longer in production, modernisation naval commanders are given integration of non-Aegis sensors and air defence weapon is focused on P-3C upgrades. Emphasis has shifted from free reign in battle. systems has also been developed and tested as the Ship ASW to surface surveillance and antiship missions, Interoperability between the Self-Defence System ISSDS) MK I for modernisation of including the Anti-Surface Warfare lASUW) Improvement various ships and national non-Aegis ships. The SSDs, schedule for installation within Program (AIP). This is a previously developed initiative elements of the Combined the FYDP period, combines with the Navy's planned Co- that will improve the ASUW and over-the-honzon Striking Force was not operative Engagement Capability (CEO to meet ship self- targeting capabilities of P-3Cs. REVIEWS exercised or tested. That was defence requirements against advanced cruise missiles. Tomahawk. The Tomahawk cruise missile has not deemed necessary by its A Surface Ship Torpedo Defence (SSTD) system is also demonstrated exceptional operational effectiveness from a ROYAL AUSTRALIAN commander. Rear Admiral under development to enhance ship defences against variety of launch platforms, as evidenced in Operation NAVY Karel Doorman. There was torpedos launched from submarines. Some elements of the Desert Storm and in the 1993 strikes against Iraq. Several even less co-operation SSTD system are nearing the end of development and will improvements to the system were introduced during the Profile No. 3 between air and naval forces be installed on ships during the FYDP years. past year, including the Block III missile and improved Maritime Patrol: in the region. It was not until SH-60B/F. Helicopters extend the range and are integral to mission planning facilities and systems. The Block III Helicopter Ships, the experienced Captain of the overall capabilities of surface combatants for anti- HMAS PERTH. Hec Waller, version provides extended range, improved lethality, and Submersibles, submarine warfare (ASW). surface surveillance, and over- enhanced mission planning flexibility. took command of the Amphibious, Mine Warfare the-hori/on targeting missions. Consistent with the dec line Naval Surface Fire Support. With the retirement of its remnants of the Combined in surface combatant force levels, the Navy's inventory battleships, the Navy is studying near- and long-term and Patrol Craft Striking Force (HMAS PERTH requirements for SH-60Bs have been reduced. An improvements in this mission area to support amphibious By and USS HOUSTON) that the additional seven SH-60B aircratt are slated for operations. Currently, most naval fire support is provided Michael Wilson correct tactical action was procurement through FY 1944, completing production ol by tactical aircraft. While tactical air forces will continue taken - withdraw to fight this model. Experience in Operation Desert Storm and to play a critical fire support role in the future, surface Published By another day. subsequent Navy analyses support adding an organic Topmill Pty. Ltd. combatants also have important capabilities to contribute. Poor tactical intelligence helicopter capability to the DDG-51 to enhance the ship's 102 Victoria Road, Accordingly, the Navy is investigating gun. missile, and also took its toll. The Captains littoral wartighting capability. Accordingly, the DDG-51 Marrickville NSW 2204 rocket technologies that could provide surface fire support of HMAS PERTH and USS Flight IIA will employ the SH-bOB. including an armed at various ranges. Promising examples include advanced HOUSTON were not told that version for antiship missions in littoral environments. Cosf. $12.95 projectiles for existing 5-inch guns, advanced guns based Front cover of the new RAN Profile, the third in the serin. The new a large Japanese force had The F version of the SH-bO is replacing the obsolete on liquid-profX'llant and electro-thermal chemical designs, Reviewed By edition, MARITIME PATROL, describes and illustrates the RANs new been sighted about 100 miles carrier-based SH-3H as naval battle groups' inner-zone helicopter ships acquired in 1994, the secretive submersibles of the and use a new attac k missile system aboard ships. TONY GRAHAM north of Saint Nicholas Point ASW helicopter system. Enough of these aire raft have been Second World War, all types of mine warfare and patrol boats, as well Acquisition decisions on specific programs await at the entrance to Sunda Strait. procured in prior years to meet the carrier ASW as the amphibious vessels and boom boats in service with the Australian completion of ongoing Navy tests and analyses. This is the third volume in As a result, the two ships requirement through the turn of the century. Accordingly, Fleet since 1911 to 199S. Surveillance and Communications. The FY 1995 budget a five Profile set dealing with sailed towards Sunda Strait the FY 1995 budget terminates SH-bOF production. includes funds to upgrade the surveillance capabilities of the ships of the Royal and their fate at the hands of In the future, SH-bOFs and SH-bOBs will be the Navy's P-l. E-2C, and EP-3 aircraft. The budget also Australian Navy since its the same Japanese fleet of remanutactured into newer variants that will provide many privately owned SHIP OF COURAGE supports an expansion of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAVI formation in 1911. While the which they had not been advanced capabilities for littoral warfare and special vessels, requisitioned for capabilities, designed to give air-capable ships an organic first book dealt with the advised It was a battle to the operations. These conversions will help meet requirements naval duties in both the First The Epic Story of HMAS aerial-surveillance capability. Funds also are provided for Major Fleet Units and the end; both PERTH and for sea-based helicopters. and Second World Wars. The PERTH and Her Crew critical communications programs, such as extremely high second. Submarines. inclusion of such ships HOUSTON lighting until they frequency and superhigh frequency systems (EHF/SHF), Destroyers and Escorts, the were out of ammunition and P-3C Maritime Patrol Aircratt. Land-based MPA squadrons provides the reader with the By the Joint Service Imagery Processing Systems (|SIPS). and new volume describes and could shoot no more. provide important surveillance and identification complete story, with many of Brendan Whiting the loint Tactical Intormation Distribution System (JTIDS). illustrates a much wider capabilities for peacetime operations and major regional the "ships taken up from In the command, control These systems will enhance the command and control variety of naval ships in Published By contingencies. The responsiveness and utility of these trade" forming the major part and intelligence aspects of capabilities of force commanders in joint operations. service during the past 84 Allen & Unwin forces in littoral environments have been evidenced in of the RAN's strength during these battles, there are lessons years. the early war years. Cost $34.95 (hard cover) for all naval commanders. Part one of the Profile is More than anything else. rom the recently devoted to the purpose built Reviewed By SHIP OF COURAGE is the Proud Suppliers to the R.A.N. purchased helicopter naval ships built since 1939. BRIAN ALSOP personal story of the men who Fsupport ships KANIMBLA up to and including the two survived the sinking of PERTH and MANOORA to the newly purchased ex United his is a book that in Sunda Strait and endured SPECIALISTS IN COOGEE secretive submersibles of the States Navy tank landing the horror of imprisonment for • REMOVAl/REPLACEMFNT everyone interested in ROOF & WALL CLADDING Second World War through to ships, to be re-configured as TNaval history should the remainder of the Second • REMOVAL OF VINYL TILES CHEMICALS the numerous mine warfare, helicopter support ships from read. More than just another World War. What makes this • IDENTIFYING & ADVISING amphibious and patrol mid 1995. account of a ship's life and book special is the assistance • COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC PTY LTD vessels, Profile No 3, For the photographic or death, it is the story of and co-operation the author PATTERSON ROAD KW1NANA, W.A. 6167 provides a well researched model enthusiast. Profile No. PERTH'S crew; first through the had from those survivors. In Brendan Whiting's words: narrative of both individual 3 includes ten pages of diary of the author's father, a Manufacturers of "I probed as far as I could and warship classes, colour and over 140 black Chief Petty Officer who like into the hearts and minds ^•a.c.r. - Agricultural - Mining - Industrial Chemicals highlighted by both historical and white illustrations, with 352 of his shipmates went of the officers and men FO-JNOATIOK RECONSTRUCTION CO PTY LTD special appendices devoted down with PERTH, and then _ 1 J 8 The Navy, January-March 1995 The Navy, January-March 1995 30 Leaders in ship repair and modernisation for over 100 years. ADI has a long history as the equipment. principal contractor for the repair, refit ADI has continually developed and and modernisation of the vessels of the upgraded its material management Royal Australian Navy. system and expertise in both commercial Through this experience, ADI has and defence supply systems. This allows developed extensive and specialist ADI to offer the Navy much more to capabilities ranging from the docking of facilitate purchasing and inventory ships to the installation and testing of control functions. sophisticated electronic systems. In addition, ADI's testing and For years ADI has worked with the calibration centres in Sydney, Melbourne Navy in facilitating stores supply and and Perth are available to check any maintaining and repairing replaceable equipment for the Navy. ADI The strategic edge. ADI Marine, Garden Island, NSW 2(MX), Australia Tel: (02) 562 3298. Fax: (02) 562 3821 The Navy League of Australia APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP HISTORICAL The Navy League was established in Australia in 1901, initially in the form of small branches of the United Kingdom Navy League (established in 1897) and since 1950 as an autonomous national body headed by a Federal Council consisting of a Federal President and representatives of the six States, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. The Navy League of Australia is now one of a number of independent Navy Leagues formed in countries of the free world to influence public thinking on maritime matters and create interest in the sea. The Navy League of Australia cordially invites you to join us in what we believe to be an important national task. s MEMBERSHIP JOINING THE LEAGUE Any person with an interest in maritime af lairs or who wishes to acquire an interest in. To become a Member of The league, simply complete the Application Form below, or knowledge ol. maritime affairs and who wishes to support the obiectives of the and post it. together with your first annual subscription of $20.00 (which includes the 4 League, is invited to K»n quarterly editions of "The Navy"), to the Hon Secretary of the Division of the Navy League in the State or Territory in which you reside, the addresses of which are as OBJECTIVES follows: NEW SOUTH WALES DIVISION: GPO Box 1719. Sydney. NSW. 2001 The principal objective of the Navy League of Australia is "The maintenance of the VICTORIAN DIVISION: PO Box 30». Ml Wavertey. Vic, 3149. maritime well-being of the Nation" by: QUEENSLAND DIVISION: C/- PO Box 170. Clovaland. Old. 4183 AUSTRALIAN CAPIIAL TERRITORY DIVISION: O 45 Sklniwr Street. Cook. ACT. M14. • Keeping before the Australian people the fact that we are a maritime nation and SOUTH AUSTRALIAN DIVISION. GPO Box 1529. Adelaide. SA. 5001 that a strong Navy and a sound maritime industry are indispensable elements of our TASMANIA* DIVISION: a- 42 Amy Road. Launcaalon Taa. 72S0 WEST AUSTRALIAN OIVISION: a 23 Lawlor Road. Attedele. WA. »1S6. national well-being and vital to the freedom of Australia. • Promoting defence self reliance by actively supporting manufacturing, shipping and Subscriptions mi dua on I si July >n each year, and your membership wilt Da currant lo J0th June rmmedrelety following the data on which you |o«n the League, escepl thet il your first subscription IS received during the parto d transport industries. isi April lo 30th June tn any year, your inrtlal membership win be attended to 30th June m the following year • Promoting, sponsoring and encouraging the interest of Australian youth in the sea and sea-services, and supporting practical sea-training measures THE NAVY LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA • Co-operating with other Navy Leagues and sponsoring the exchange of cadets for Application for Membership training purposes. To The Hon Secretary The Navy League oi Australia ACTIVITIES The Navy League of Australia works towards its objectives in a number of ways: Division • By including in its membership leading representatives of the many elements which Sit or Madam form the maritime community. • Through soundly-based contributions by members to journals and newspapers, and I wish to join the Navy League of Australia, the objectives of which I support, and I enclose other media comment. a remittance for $20 00 being my first annual subscription to 30th June next • By supporting the Naval Reserve Cadets, and assisting in the provision of training Name facilities. (Mr) (Mrs) • By encouraging and supporting visits by recognised world figures such as former (Ms) PI I AM PHtNT CHAM V (Rank) United States Chiefs of Naval Operations and Britain's First Sea Lords. Street Suburb • By publishing "The Navy", a quarterly journal reporting on local and overseas maritime happenings, past, present and projected. State Postcode • By maintaining contact with serving naval personnel through activities arranged during visits to Australian ports of ships of the Royal Australian and Allied Navies. Signature Date • By organising symposia, ship visits and various other functions of maritime interest Sabscrtftiaas are tee sa tit Jtrif * eacl taar sae jaar mstMsrtms •« M camel » WK Jaaa i«in«ml| ll»m»| »e Ma throughout the year. •a rIKI res isf* the Lssfss lies* ttrat if ieer first setsenmaa is rscsrrsa Sanaa M parte* 1st tpaf la MB Jaaa la say Member participation is encouraged in all these activities. JOIN THE NAVAL RESERVE CADETS // you are between the ages of 13 and IS years: The Naval Reserve Cadfts provide for the >f>inlu THE NAVY" All enquiries regarding the Navy Magazine, subscriptions and editorial matters should be sent to The Hon. Secretary, NSW Division NAVY LEAGUE of AUSTRALIA GPO Box 1719. SYDNEY. NSW. 2001 $3.50 April-June 1995 New Zealand Seaiift Ship 4 *** Mothballs to Museums ...8 ifffmr^mr* Collins at Sea 9 The Magazine of the "rt»e RAN in WWII..... 10 Aftii. - Rob* by Senate Committee .JLSjEC.tt Navy League of Australia The Indian Navy ...... -13 Vol 57 No 2 Bark Endeavour ...A '*K>\..•.8 Regular Features AGIOS ANDREAS jgfPPjwttt HMASGEAANIUM 27 "ffipiT latters Good Ship ALMA DOEPEL 30 tf^fevri News DERWENT in the Deep ...» 32 ' "tlBlory Revisited Final Role - USS DECATUR 34 " Book Reviews »««» ff|* THE NAVY LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA V |mr|>h< AM MjNinr> 4»Sl.w SiirH Cm*. AC I .'«.I4 Irl SOUTH AUSTRAIIAN DIVISION S|>S1A| K.4»t1-«v AO l>M KAN Rid> Mm Bird C OKI H 11' ' Pjlron Mntwrllm<> thr (' The Navy, April-|une 1995 1 Tall Ship. She conducts Sail celebrated during the Training voyages on Port AUSTRALIA REMEMBERS Phillip Bay for the youth of PROGRAM announced GIBSON BATTLE MARINE FROM OUR READERS Victoria. recently by the Prime Minister. During World War 2 ALMA It is hoped that old soldiers TRANSMISSION PRODUCTS DOEPEL was commissioned as Brampton Island and The and iormer crew who served LOHMANN & STOLTERFOHT Whitsundays. Ex "Sandra" Army Ketch AK-82 to work as on AK-82 can be located tor a changed hands a tew times, an explosives and ammunition re-union to be held onboard GEARBOXES COUPLINGS finally to home port in Cairns. Naval Cadets in ship, carrying stores and during a special ceremony to Ex "SANDRA" still has the Memorial Unveiling personnel to remote outposts commemorate the ship's war CLUTCHES BEARINGS Roylen appearance and is in in northern Australia and the service. The ship will be Pacific Islands. In April 1945 good condition. Dear Sir, presented with a plaque in PROVEN MARINE DEFENCE AND the ship carried approximately Another Fairmile ex Cadets from T/S ONSLOW recognition ol her vital role 800 troops into action under AEROSPACE TECHNOLOGY. "ESMERELDA" also had a at Caloundra recently played a during World War 2. General "Red Robbie" chequered career. Belonging significant role at the unveiling CUSTOMISED PRODUCTS: Robertson, shuttling them A special iund-raising to several owners beiore Ix-ing and dedication of a Naval MARINE PROFUSION along the coast undercover ot campaign is also underway lo purchased by Mr Peler Tibbs. Memorial at Maroochydore. SONAR ARRAY HANDLING darkness to assault remaining iinance a Commemorative The boat however had a tragic T/S ONSLOW Cadets under lapanese strongholds in New Youth Sail Training Voyage in CABI Ji DEPLOYMENT AND RECOVERY ending, catc hing tire in 1990. the command of Lieutenant Guinea. memory of the dedicated Ex "A|AX" another lustin Dax, NRC. assisted by efforts ol our war-time heroes. Fairmile now named "PETAI" Sub-Lieutenant Peter Fletcher This year is the the 50th Yours faithfully, DIRECT AND INDEPENDENTLY | also served out of Cairns as a and Petty Officer Bernard anniversary ol Ihe old ship's Wjujem CAPT P.L. Ballantyne MOUNTED V-ANCLE MARINE | HMAS KIANCA. minn^eeping oh Capt Morrlon in February 1942. dive vessel, like the others had Verwayen made up the active service, coinciding with a changing career. Many years Catafalque Parly, did duty as Anzac Day and the V.E. day North Melbourne 3051 FRESHWATER CLOSED 1 TRANSMISSIONS | Dear Sir. *** in Papua New Guinea tlag handlers and generally (Victoria in Europe) 50th See article in this issue KEEL COOLERS I have been «i member ot the working on the Fly River, mack' themselves useful. anniversary, which will be Editor) Navy League kx many years. I Dear Sir, however ihe rot had set in and The memorial, situated in GIBSON BATTLE & CO. know you like lo have old I have been reading the story the boat returned to Cairns for Cotton Tree Park. photos ior THE MAW Here is »-|»«/«11 A [)t vision oT HO WATER Tult I rxJ uslnoo Pll. by Mr Brian Alsop on Army "Aus Dive" and was still in Maroochydore was unveiled a photo ot HMAS KIANGA Sydney Newcastle Melbourne Wateicraft Part 4. Oct/Dec Issue survey at the time of sale in by Commander D.A. Caton, under I. tony one 12 PDK, , 684 5600 (049) 694 155 315 9044 (KM) 94. I have collected small 1994. She now resides in the ADC. RAN. Officer-in-Charge. one Oerlikon. two M.G.s THINGS CHANCE IN THE RIGHT Brlabane Perth Adelaide amounts ot iniormation on the Solomon Islands, her fate Naval Support Office, South double sweeps. Aux 277 4544 279 4511 346 2622 tollowing in which some old unknown. (Queensland and dedicated by DIRECTION - CONTINUED minesweeper taken oil "Tars" may lincl interesting, and Readers of THE NAVY will know of the relevanc e of the sea Queensland 1941/42 iiom to lind out what hap|»ened to lo our defences. They will be aware of the importance to our HMAS TAMBAR. there old ships. prosperity of sea borne trade. These matters are not widely As told to n»e by a member Yours laithfullx. understocxl. They arc not normally in the forefront of people's ot the crew, he said around John Douglas thoughts. Even when, as recently, there has been debate over the about that time TAMBAR was Cairns 4870 future of the ANL. much of the reporting in Ihe general press living, she wrong-signalled, and gave priority to the |>olitical implications. the shore Kilters ofM'ned up on he ex Fairmiles B motor It seems that Australians look inland. The cultural emphasis is her in Morel on Bay. She was hil vessels are still operated on the sunburnt country. It is the wide brown land for us. Of TRANSFIELD by a six inc h shell with one T.ind in survey. These are course, the vast majority of ihe population have their homes killed and one Stwd suitering ex "MAUREEN" 2769 now within 100 kilometres of the sea. It is ironic that we prefer to live his legs blown oil. The shell CHALLENGER" and ex where the land 's neither too wide nor too brown. Australians linished up in the W.T. ottice. A •SANDRA 2770 now 'REEF CONSTRUCTION. have to be reminded that their c ontinenl is an island. very unfortunate occurrence. ENCOUNTtR SANDRA". lx>th Thought you may be interested. belong lo dive companies in The League has been tackling this awareness problem in So did Mix Cairns. many ways. This magazine, the Sea and Australia video and seminars run by the League are but examples. The League Y(tmr\ sincerely. Ex "MAUREEN" 2769. From 85tt Wooden Cargo Vessel. Senior Naval Chaplain remains involved in Ihe Naval Reserve Cadets. The State the end ot the war "MAUREEN Ken Blakeley I ike so many others alter the Graeme Adsett, RANEM. divisions of the League and individual members have also had a tew owners. One being Highett 1190 war, a vessel believed to be busied themselves assisting maritime museums, preserving the Port Authority ot Fremantle Hugh Anderson of the *** the ex Navy diving tender historic vessels and lighthouses and generally doing their bit to W.A. where she served as a Sunshine Coast Sub-section of ALBATROSS" GPV961 found promote the cause. pilot vessel lor many years. Her the Naval Association oi its way to Cairns. She is now lop sick* was reUnlt with a new Australia designed and built All these activities are lo be encouraged. They each in their Dear Sir. known as CORAL REEF", also pilot house and cabin in the memorial. own way help spread the maritime message in the community. I reter lo the lirst ot the working lor diving charters to aluminium construction. Kevin Baker Even DM and OFs are members of the community! TRANSFIELD mystery ships appearing in the the Great Barrier Reel. She has Caloundra 4551 Which brings us back to the DM and OFs. The competition lanuary-March edition ot THE Her present owner Mr Alan retained her appearance and +** from interest groups will not lessen. In this ever changing world Southwell of Cairns, operates NAVY. Records held by the helm, with only a lew extras it is clear that the League will have to work hard to ensure that her in the waters off Cairns, as a Naval Historical Section added since. whenever it has a point to make its views are not submerged in indicate that the hull number diving vessel, now known as This vessel is owned by Mr Dear Sir. all the other competing demands lor the eyes and ears of our A COMMITMENT 71 was allocated to the "Challenger". In early 1995 this D.|. Williams of Cairns. Recent editions ot THE DM and OFs. requisi'ioned trawler LUCY vessel was up tor sale. She 56U Wooden Cargo Vessel. NAVV have been running And now a few words about Geoffrey Evans. Many fine STAR. Uniortunately not much could now be sold to a TO EXCELLENCE. One of the vessels still exists articles on Army watercrait. I tributes have been paid to his work for the League and for is known alMxit her service. Brisbane owner. today, the tormer RAN diving enclose some additional maritime affairs generally. All justly deserved. But it should be The possibility oi this being Ex "SANDRA" 2770 is still tender "TURTLE". She is details on AK-82. ALMA made clear he has not been pensioned off to idle retirement. He LUCY STAR is further supported owned and operated by Mr believed to be working in The DOEPEL. remains in scrvice as Chairman of the Federal Advisory Council. Transfield Construction Pty Ltd. by the tacl that she was armed Peter Tibbs ot Cairns, as a dive Gulf of Carpentaria. As late as The Sail Training Vessel Although his words will no longer appear in Viewpoint readers with a single Oerlikon, one is vessel on the Great Barrier 1994 "TURTLE" has kept her ALMA DOEPEL was built in might wish to keep an eye on other pages of THE NAVY. 24 Outram Street, West Perth WA 6005 visible on the quarter deck. Reei. Aiter war's end ex grey marine diesel. Australia in 1903. and has -SANDRA" belonged to the Tel: (09) 322 6244 Fax: (09) 322 3946 Yours sincerely, Hope this may shed some spent most ot her lite in Graham HARRIS McLean family operating up to J.H. STRACZEK light on old ships, to old ship Australian waters. In recent Federal President nine such vessels as Roylen Senior Naval Historical mates. 50 years on and still years the ship has been P.S. There is a prize for the best alternative acronym to DM and Cruisers irom Mackav to oin and Archives Officer £ K restored as a fully operational OFs. 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 3 —I NEW ZEALAND SEALIFT SHIP — NEW ZEALAND Naval Dockyard, Auckland, the ship will undergo a short HMNZS CHARLES UPHAM SPECIFICATIONS series of preliminary modifications. She will be named GENERAL: HMNZS CHARLES UPHAM in honour of the Second World SEALIFT SHIP CJverall Length 131.70m War New Zealand soldier who won a bar to his VC. Dun 6.1 bin A number of modifications will be required before the ship A project definition study lor such a vessel was finalised in The Mew Zealand Deience Forces purchased the DWT at 6.16m 7,220 ml is fully ready for military sealift operations, including: former mercantile Roll-on/Roll-off motor vessel 19H9, with ship facilities for two medium helicopters produced Service Speed 14.5 kn by British Maritime Technology Defence Services. With the Phase 1A: Initial Modifications. This phase will include MERC AND!A QUEIN It in late 1994. TOP DECK: defence budget under severe pressure a conversion was deemed initial operator and maintainer training and implementation of Clejr Height IGaragel 4.0 m the only affordable alternative. Various solutions were an integrated logistic system, bringing the ship up to RNZN fter arriving in Auckland on 24 March, initial training Deck Area lOpenl 1.390 sq m investigated and in late 1994 the Danish MERCANDIA QUEEN SOLAS and MARPOL required standards, painting the ship began, along with the conversion to a military sealiit ship, Deck Area (Garagel 400 sq m to be named HMNZS CHARLES UPHAM. Commissioning II was pure based at a price of Dkr55 million (US$9mi. grey and fitting required naval communications equipment. A MAIN DECK: is expected into the Royal New Zealand Navy in mid October, MERCANDIA QUEEN II was originally completed for the Phase IB: Commissioning and Trials. Commissioning is (Tear Height 4.5 m 1995. Danish Mercandia COmpany by Danyard's Frederikshavn yard in envisaged for mid Oct 95, to be followed by trials covering Platform Dei k above 1.B7m For a number ot years the "Kiwi" Navy has required a sea I lit noise ranging, degaussing, heeling/stability and aviation. The Plattorm Deck below 2.30 m or logistic support ship capable ot taking a company lilt ot the In early lanuary, 1995, after a brief overhaul at the Fredericia ship is anticipated as being available for contingency Deck Area 1,575 sq m Army's Rapid Reaction Force, up to a maximum capacity ot 500 Shipyard in Denmark, the ship proceeded to New Zealand via operations over the 95/96 cyclone season. Plattorm Det k 180 sq m in an emergency. the Panama Canal, her crew British civilians. At the Devonport Phase 2: Limited Operations. This will include pre- LOWER DECK: deployment training in the ship, loading, deployment and Clear Height 4.0 m unloading training. Deck Area MIOsqm As the navy familiarises itself with the ship, tenders will be- EXTERNAL RAMPS: sought from local shipyards, including the privatised Slern Ramp 15.5 x 8.2 m Devonpor! Naval Dockyard, for the full conversion. Roadway width 7.7 m Starboard Quarter Ramp 13.0 x 4.5 m Phase 3: Final L'ser Requirement Modifications. This will Roadway width 4.0 m include provision of a helicopter deck and hanger, lor two Capacity (Both Kampst 60 ml Army helicopters, permanent accommodation for 65 and facilities for a further 150 Army, increased dry and refrigerated CARGO LIFTS: storage capacity, the fitting of a full communications suite, Starboard IServes all decksl 16.0 x J.lHm SRBOC and 0.5 cal machine guns. The envisaged helicopter Capacity 45 ml deck capacity is for one Chinook or two medium lift Port (Serves lower decksl 16.0 x 3.17 m helicopters, with the ability to hanger two medium lift Capacity 35 ml helicopters. Getting Married? You need NHBS. Families of naval personnel can have the best possible health care at the lowest possible cost. NHBS is your private health fund responsible for making sure your family has the best cover available NHBS recognises the needs of Navy people Check NHBS costs and benefits and compare them with civilian Internal arrangement of the Ne%• Zealand Logistic Ship, prior to conversion. funds You will find we look after your family better. For brochures and application forms, call NHBS free call (0081 333 156 or (03) 510 3422. BEST WISHES TO ALL NAVY PERSONNEL Waiting periods could apply From All Round Motel - Inn the Pink /naval\ 263 Sheridan St i HEALTH $ § BENEFITS 5 Cairns 4870 ^SOCIETYw v PH: (070) 51 4800 FAX: (070) 31 1526 A REGISTERED HEALTH BENEFITS ORGANISATION 4 The Navy, April-Junr 1995 The Navy, April-lunr 1995 S NAVAL MATTERS NAVAL MATTERS Already equipped with the anti- provided by ships with an embarked Gulf in 1991. The modifications would surface targetting capabilities of their helicopter, a minimum of twelve ships is be implemented from the fifth ship in FFG Upgrade helicopters and Harpoon missiles, and seen as essential. Further, although the class, with the two earlier RAN their 76mm guns, the FFGs are helicopters provide surveillance over a vessels being retrofitted. considered to be adequately armed for very wide area, they cannot detain and Plans for the future destroyers are surface warfare. escort trespassing fishing vessels into further from finalisation. However, the Navy's First Priority Up to Si billion is envisaged for the harbour. The senior command need for successors to these ships is FFG upgrade. professional naval view is that the RAN manifest. Provisional plans involve SA2 billion is envisaged for the RAN must be structured to conduct its utilising Australia's growing warship By A.W. Grazebrook share ot the joint patrol vessel project. Of assigned wartime role. Necessarily, this design capability (developed by this SA1.6 billion would fund only nine will involve the assignment of over Transfield tor the Anzac frigates) to build capable units to peace time roles such a class of major surface combatant that * Upgrading the six FFG7 class ships. new types of sea skimming anti ship ships, with SAO.4 billion for the ships' With the long lead times required as fishery patrols. would both succeed the DDGs and form * Building a new class of destroyers to missiles. That means countering Ixjth the intermediate surveillance helicopters. A for new equipment, the RAN a basis for the long term successors to replace the aging Adams class DDGs. missiles themselves and their launching further SAO.3 billion is required lor The eight Anzac frigates on order will must plan ahead for the next the FFGs. * Utilising the extra space and weight in vehic les (both aircraft and ships). helicopters for the Anzac frigates. Both l>e armed with one 127mm (S inch) gun, twenty years at least. patrol vessels and Anzac frigates are a hull mounted sonar and anti The capabilities required for the the Anzac class to enhance their anti- Options now being considered expected to receive the same type of submarine torpedoes for close range DDG successors have not yet been air warfare armament and C2 systems. include modernising the FFG7s' existing Lynx sized helicopters. defence, and one Mark 41 vertical determined by the Australian Defence The RAN is now doing just th.it. This * Under a joint programme with medium range Standard SMI missiles to The RAN and RMN have developed missile launching system for 8 Sea Force. involves considering such key factors as: Malaysia, building offshore patrol Block VIB standard, upgrading to jointly capabilities which meet the Sparrow (later 32 evolved Sea Sparrow) Time is getting short. HMAS PERTH, ' The long term detente strategy combatants, capable of operating under Standard SM2. installing the rolling air requirements of both navies. These meet anti-aircraft missiles. There is only one the oldest DDG, commissioned thirty determined by the elected combat circumstances, to succeed the frame missile (RAM) and installing the RAN's need for ships which not only channel of fire control for the anti- years ago. Her anti-air warfare Government. Fremanlle < lass patrol lx>ats. evolved Sea Sparrow to meet the need lor have the range and sea keeping qualities aircraft missiles, and no Phalanx close armament, gunnery system and ' The roles assigned to the KAN within Although a strong case can be a new layer ol defence against anti-ship to undertake patrol and surveillance work range anti-missile multiple gun system. command and control system have been that strategy. established in pnnciplc lor each project, missiles. Evolved Sea Sparrow, which is around Australia, but also have the However, space and weight have been extensively modernised and could serve * The tactical threats to the KAN that there are doubts that sufficient funds will still in development, would require the damage control and self defence anti-air provided for a second eight cell Mark 41 tor some time to come. With no are forecast for the period over which be available to undertake each project on installation of a vertical missile launching sensors and weapons to operate under missile launched, a second channel of helicopters and the removal of Ikara, the existing and planned ships and aircraft the scale and timetable necessary to system, whilst the latest SMI would some degree of threat. The current fire control and a Phalanx type system. ships are limited to short range anti- are expected to remain in service. ensure the RAN's ability to meet its require new target illumination systems. Fremantle class are helpless in these Recognising the space and weight submarine self defence. The hull and That is up to thirty five years from assigned strategic role. The SM2 option would require the circumstances and would have to be already provided, exploiting the full steam propulsion system are ageing. The now. The issue is complicated by the installation of a current generation withdrawn if serious fighting developed. potential of the Anzac frigates offers the latter is personnel intensive and the * The equipment options available lor evolving nature of the joint pjlrol vessel combined surveillance and target To ensure flexibility to meet the RAN excellent value for money. longer time taken (compared with a gas meeting these threats. project, the timetable tor which may selection radar. requirements of both the RMN and RAN, Estimated to cost well under SAO.5 turbine system) to build up to full speed * Bearing in mind ships and aircraft impose a demand lor funds earlier than Operations in the Kuwait Liberation a number of detailed design variants are billion for the 8 RAN ships, a second can be a major tactical disadvantge. already in service, the alternative would !>e the case if the Fremanlle were War demonstrated the need lor warships under consideration for the joint patrol quad packed eight cell Mark 41 Against this, the ships have been well methods of acquiring any necessarv to serve their full life of type. to be fitted with the capability to avoid vessels. Drawings have been prepared for launching unit for evolved Sea Sparrow refitted. Unless a decision is made soon additional capabilities. The prUnities set by the RAN for the floating (as distinct from bottom) mines. an 8 cell Mark 41 or Mark 48 vertical and a second fire control system would and work starts on their successors, they With the DDGs due to end their FFC7 update are: This can be done by installing a missile launching system forward of the bring these ships up to the standard will have to serve on longer than service around the turn of the century, the 1. Upgrade the anti-air warfare specialised (relatively cheap) sonar or bridge, with the rolling airframe missile required for operations in the Persian planned. focus of ihe KAN's current studies is on capability. modifying existing anti-submarines remaining an option. At least one the future of the surface combatant lorce. 2. Install the capability to avoid sonars. option provides berths for one The cuirent and forecast strength is: floating mines. A low priority is assigned to commanding officer, 10 officers, * The three Adams class DDGs arc- 3. Anti-submarine warlare. modernising the FFGs' anti-submarine 10 senior sailors, 36 junior sailors highly capable in anti-air warfare and 4. Anti-surface warfare. capabilities because, with their S70B2 and 15 embarked personnel in c ommand and control capabilities. The key objective of updating the Seahawk helicopters, the ships are (trainees etc). For the peace time They are fitted for but not with surface ships'AAW capabilities is to deal with already fairly well equipped in this fishery patrol and surveillance to surface weapons, but both their respect. However, there is a substantial role, the RAN would man their surface warfare and anti-submarine body of professional opinion which ships with much fewer personnel. capabilities are limited by their lack ol disagrees with this. That body perceives a Within a segment of the RAN integrated helicopters. need for RAN helicopters to be equipped outside Canberra there is a * The two River class destroyer escorts, with a dipping sonar. Because the Official concern that only nine hulls can with limited lighting and anti- view assigns a low priority to anti- be funded for ships to fill an submarine capabilities, will pay off in submarine warfare improvements, a operational function over a very the next three years. dipping sonar is unlikely to be installed wide area. There is a view that * The six guided missile frigates are very in ihe Seahawks for some years at least. more cheaper, but not smaller, capable in anti-air, anti-submarine and ships are desirable. Even surface warfare. However, the recognising the greater coverage advance of technology will render these ships steadily less capable, particularly in anti-air warfare. ' The eight Anzac frigates on order will be well equipped for surveillance and self defence but of limited anti- submarine capabilities. * The lack of combatant capabilities of the fifteen Fremanlle class patrol boats is a major concern when planning for countering threats. To meet the demands of the future, the RAN is now considering four major aspects of the long term development of their surface combatant force: 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 7 Above: USS MISSOURI, arriving in Sydney. 1986. Right: USS NEW IERSEY. berthing Garden Island. 1988. New submarine COLLINS on the Port River. Adelaide I'hoto RAN Mothballs to Museum Pieces On 13 january 7995, the US Navy's last four battleships were removed from the naval vessel register on the orders of US Navy Secretary fohn Dal ton. The action makes them available tor three possible options: foreign military sales, scrapping, or becoming a naval memorial or museum. The ships. USS IOWA. MISSOURI. NEW JERSEY and WISCONSIN have been in mothballs', in a reserve status, tor several years. In this status the ships would have been able to be brought back to active duty tor a cost of $95 million each, according to navy sources. That price tag. along with the $80 million it would cost annually to operate each ship, if re- activated. led the US Navy to conclude it would be unaffordable to ever deploy the battleships agdn. Flying the Red Ensign for her trials, COLLINS is expected to be commissioned in 1996. As well there was little point in spending $100,000 annually on each ship to maintain them in mothballs. Proud to be Associated and Best Wishes to All Navy Personnel from Navy sources said it is likely the ships would be turned over to charitable entities in the USA to become memorials. There is no apparent foreign military sales market due to the high cost of DIJMLOP BEDDING operating the battleships. 20 Scrivener Street, Warwick Farm NSW 2170 The ships were re-activated in the 1980s at a cost of $425 million each. The WISCONSIN and MISSOURI participated in Operation Desert * WE SPECIALISE IN A RANGE OF MATTRESSES, PILLOWS. SOFA BEDS Storm'. But the navy mothballed all four ships again by the early 1990s. TO SUIT YOUR TASTE & NEEDS This decision will leave the navy without any 16 in (400mm) guns to provide naval surface fire Telephone: (02) 821 7444 support. A number of solutions remain under consideration to fill that requirement, including a Facsimile: (02) 821 7401 marinised version of the Army Tactical Missile Mobile: (018) 209 484 System. 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 8 The RAN in WWII 1430 The contribution of industry to navy's war in the THURSDAY 25 MAY Pacific. DrC. Coulthard-Clark 1515 Afternoon tea The RAN in WWII 0800 Registration Session 4 - Operations Session 1 - Introduction Chairperson - Dr. K. Fewster, Director of the Australian National Maritime Museum jointly Hosted by Chairperson Captain j.H. McCatfrie. RAN. Director 1 545 The RAN contribution to operations in the the RAN Maritime Studies Program General Maritime Studies Program Mediterranean, Mr E. Grove. University of Hull 0900 Welcome. the Australian Naval Institute Vice Admiral R.G. Taylor. AO RAN. Chielot 1630 Southwest Pacific Sea Frontiers - The Forgotten .ind the Naval Stair Command, Mr D.M. Stevens. Director of Naval 0910 Opening remarks. The Hon C. Sciacca. MP. Historical Studies Australian National Maritime Museum Minister tor Veterans' Affairs 19 30 ConferenPacific experiencesc e dinner . Senator D.I. Hamer 0930 Australian naval policy 1919-45, Commander Thursday 25 - Friday 26 May 1995 I. Goldrii k. RAN 1000 The war in the Pacific: A strategic overview, FRIDAY 26 MAY Australian National Maritime Museum Mr I. Strac/ek. Senior Naval Historical A Archives Officer Session 5 - Social Aspects AUSTRALIAN Darling Harbour 1045 Morning Tea Chairperson - Rear Admiral C.I. Oxenbould, AO RAN NATIONAL MARITIME Sydney, NSW Session 2 - The RAN and Allied Navies President of the ANI MUSEUM Chairperson - Ass 10 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 11 THE ANL... Probe by Senate Committee INDIAN By Geoff EVANS NAVY urther developments in the Minister Brereton's conduct of the sale Minister's statement above, an government's controversial proposal process; his controversial statements in improvement of between 200 and 300 to relinquish sole ownership ot the respect of its value and viability, and the million dollars in value over a decade F consequent statements in respect of its of depression in the world shipping Australian National Line t The Navy, April-June 1995 13 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 THE INDIAN NAVY THE INDIAN NAVY design agency responsible for ihe Russian SS-N-22 SSM's and SA-N-7 and operate British-built, American- Six NILGIRI class frigates, CHARLES DE GAULLE class CVN would SAM's, a 76mm gun, torpedo tubes and designed Sea King helicopters. As may be commissioned from 1972-81, are based be retained to assist in the design of a two Sea King helicopters, all on a expected there have been some on the "broad-beamed" Leander design. replacement to be built in India. displacement of 6200 tonnes. It is equipment compatibility problems! Constructed at Bombay, they were the Following reports of a change of intent reported thai all three ships are running However, the Indian Navy is persevering first major combatants to be buill in within the Indian Navy, it was announced behind schedule due to difficulties in wilh ihe class and three more have been India. The major difference to the original in 1991 that the design for a replacement procuring needed sub-systems from Ihe ordered to a slightly larger design, design is the inclusion of a telescopic would be shifted to an Italian disparate parts of the former Soviet utilising a great deal more indigenous hangar to accommodate a larger GARIBALDI design. Current thinking Union. This may well result in additional content. helicopter, with the last two, TARAGIRI within the Indian Navy is for an and VINDHYAGI, extensively modified lo indigenously constructed carrier to enter allow the operation of a Sea King service by the year 2000. This project, helicopter. Five Russian Petya II class however, takes secondary priority to the frigates comprise the remainder of the nuclear submarine project. Recently frigate force, survivors of an original class reports have surfaced that Russia is of ten. Four have been deleted with the offering the Kiev class VTOL carrier fifth, ANDAMAN, sinking in heavy ADMIRAL GORSHKOV (ex BAKU) for weather in the Bay of Bengal on 22 sale. The current condition of the August 1990 with the loss of 14 crew. GORSHKOV is reported as poor. The latest additions to the corvette force are the KHUKRI class. Designed in India, they are armed wilh SSM's, SAM's and a 76mm gun. all on a displacement of 1350 tonnes and a crew of 79. Four have been completed wilh Iwo more under construction and a further Iwo on Above: Modified Kjshin class destroyer INS RA/PUI. Right: INS GANCA, Codnari cliff frigate. Harrier V/STOL jets armed with Sea Eagle Above: missiles. Both types operate from the i3 Bear F reconnaissance aircraft. year old VIKRANT and the 35 year old Right: VIRAAT (ex HMS HERMES). VIKRANT INS SAKTI refuels the frigate INS operates a mix of six Sea Harriers, nine CODAVARI. Sea King helicopters and a single Chetak (Alouettel search and rescue helicopter. Falkland's War veteran VIRAAT was western systems being procured to allow acquired from the UK in 1986 and was their completion. commissioned in 1987 following a UK The three GODIVARI class frigates are refit. Normally operating a group an example of the Indian mix-and-malch comprising twelve to eighteen Sea philosophy. Built at Bombay and Harriers, seven Sea Kings and two commissioned in 1983-85, they are Chetaks, up to thirty Sea Harriers c ould based on the UK Leander design (wilh be operated in an emergency. substantial modifications), utilise British Whilst conferring a capability are in need of urgent replacement. The mainstays of any blue water navy steam turbines and sonars, Russian unmatched within the region both vessels Initially it was announced that the French are its surface combatants, the destroyers SAM's. SSM's and guns, Italian torpedoes, and frigates, and once again the Indian French helicopter handling equipment Navy utilises a varied mix of Russian, Western and indigenous designs. Largest members of the surface fleet are the five modified Russian designed Kashin class destroyers, the RAJPUT class. Commissioned in 1980-88 they are equipped with surface to surface missiles (SSM), surface to air missiles (SAM), anti- submarine torpedoes and mortars, two 76mm guns and operate a Helix helicopter. Now under construction in Bombay, the Project 15 class guided missile destroyers (DDG) represent the future for the Indian surface fleet. Designed in India to incorporate the best features of the RAIPUT's and the GODIVARI class frigates, the DELHI. MYSORE and the unnamed third ship will utilise mostly Russian weapons and western electronics. Later ships will have Indian- designed weapons and electronics fitted as they become available. Impressive Aircraft carrier, INS VIRAAT. August 1994. The ship is listing to port, with her "ski jump" ships, as designed, they will operate prominent at the bow. (Photo • A.O. Baker IIII Submarine SINDHUKIRI, built to the Russian Kilo design. 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 14 The Indian corvette KHUKRI in May 1990. Note the helicopter deck aft, but no hanger. (Photo A.D. Bakif III). THE INDIAN NAVY order. The remainder oi the corvette iorce is made up oi Russian designed vessels, three Nanuchka II class delivered 1976- TH. tour Pauk II class delivered 1989-91 and 9 Tarantul I class, iive built in Russia and three built in India with one more under c onstruction. A mix oi Russian and Indian built patrol cratt are operated, with the largest and most modern being the seven SUKANYA (lass. Displacing 1890 tonnes they are underarmed with only a single 20mm Oerlikan cannon and a Chetak helicopter, however they have the capability to be more heavily re-armed in THE INDIAN NAVY a crisis. Two iurther units are on order with six more heavily armed sisters in service or six modern minehunters. Constructed of building ior the Indian Coast Guard. glass reinforced plastic, these 800 tonne A measure oi the reach oi a navy can vessels will be built at Goa although their be determined by the size oi its auxiliary progress is reported to be proceeding at a arm, the larger its ileet oi underway slow pace. The Indian Navy has excited the interest of commentators, politicians and naval officers around the Indian Ocean and beyond. What India describes as a navy suitable to her stature as the world's Above: largest democracy, regional neighbours RAAF photograph of the Indian Silgiri see as a threat growing ever larger. These (Leander) class frigate, INS TARAGIRI. neighbours, most vocally Pakistan, point to India's willingness to use force to Left: support what it perceives as being its The fourth Khukri class corvette seen from the national interests, as demonstrated by starboard quarter. Taken January 1994. Indian military intervention in the Maldive Islands and Sri Lanka. replenishment ships the greater its Nonetheless, despite the fears of her capabilities and the further from its home neighbours, India is committed to the bases it can deploy. With only two 16000 qualitative and quantitative growth of her tonne DEEPAK class replenishment tankers Navy. in service, India is shackled with an inadequate replenishment capability. Their The year 2005 should see India's navy ability to supply only fuel means that spare operating nuclear powered submarines parts and ammunition resupply must await and two powerful carrier battle groups the return to port. This limitation has been based around two new V/STOL carriers, recognised with the ordering of a third INS RANIIT, leads a Codavari class frigate and a Spruance class destroyer of the United States escorted by modern, powerful, surface vessel to a modified design. Navy. (Photo - A.D. Baker III). escorts and supported by a fleet of This ship. ADITYA. to be delivered in modern replenishment ships, all built to 1995, will be able to carry approximately however, to support a carrier task force at slow, but welcome, increase. Six Russian Indian requirements, in India. The 2170 cubic metres of stores and any distance from home ports. YEVGENYA class inshore minesweepers continued growth of the Indian Navy ammunition in addition to fuel and Mine warfare is one important and twelve Russian NATYA class ocean over the next few years will indeed bear diesel. Additional ships would be needed element of the navy that is undergoing a minesweepers are to be joined by at least watching. 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 16 BARK ENDEAVOUR of the Bark ENDEAVOUR arrival, taken bv the Manly Daily newspaper. Every size of craft from fire-tugs to one-man jet skis came Hark ENDEAVOUR arriving off Sydney on Sunday, 18 December 1994 The Detailed port quarter view of Bark ENDEAVOUR. The ship had earlier taken out in force to accompany the ship's arrival. ship was greeted by at least two hundred water craft as well as six tall ships. aboard VIPs in the Pittwater, north of Sydney. The bark was then placed on After sailing from Iter place of construction, Fremantle, the previous exhibition at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Pyrmont. In March October, ENDEAVOUR visited Albany. Adelaide, Hobart and Melbourne. 1995 Bark ENDEAVOUR began her sailing programme. Later she will return IPhoto - RAN). to Fremantle to be refitted for a voyage to England. (Photo - RANI. Bark ENDEAVOUR makes her way up Sydney Harbour for the Man-o-War Steps at the Opera House. To ensure arriving at the announced time, the ship used her auxiliary propulsion, in almost windless conditions. In addition to the welcoming armada, tens of thousands of Sydney-sidets One of the tall ships to rendezvous with Bark ENDEAVOUR was the sail training ship YOUNG ENDEAVOUR, presented to Australia in 1988, a bi- centennial gift from the United Kingdom. IPhoto - RAN). witnessed the scene from numerous vantage points around the long shoreline. (Photo RAN). 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 19 NAVALNEWS PROUD CONTRACTOR TO HMAS STIRLING SHEARER evening ol Thursday, December recall of many ol HMAS Navy Rescues Lone 29, 1994 lor a dash to the site Darwin's crew which were on WRIGHT of the disabled yachi which leave and the supplementing of was drifting some 840 nautical some of ihe ship's billets wilh AMRI miles south west of Hobart. personnel from other units al HYFLO JuJ A.E. BAKER & CO French Yachtswoman The rescue involved the short notice. SDT/IVC one French yachtswoman operation was carried out some TAYLOR Lot 418. Ocean Street. Kwinana, WA 6167 55 nautical miles from where VELAN Isabelle Autissier (3H) was Lrescued from ner disabled HMAS Darwin was holding off. Ms Autissier was flown lo GRiSWOLD FLOW CONTROLS yacht Ecureuil Poitou Charentes DAVID GRIGG RAAF Base Edinburgh by - PYPLOK II which was drifting in the HMAS Darwin's Seahawk EL O MATIC ACTUATORS Manager Southern Ocean, by a Royal helicopter on Monday, January - PROMET Australian Navy Seahawk helicopler on Sunday, January 2. QUALITY RANGE OF INDUSTRIAL AND Telephone: (09) 439 1799 1, 1995. HMAS Darwin, comm- PETRO CHEMICAL VALVES Operating from the guided- anded by Commander Davyd EXTENSIVE STOCK. ACTUATION AND Fax: (09) 439 1795 missile frigate HMAS Darwin, Thomas, returned to HMAS CONTROL'! AVAILABLE ihe Seahawk, piloted by Stirling on Thursday, January 5. Pager: (09) 482 5184 Lieutenani Commander Tony HMAS Darwin was crash- 66 Hailey Crs. Condell Park Dalton, carried out Ihe rescue sailed from ihe HMAS Stirling Telephone: (02) 791 0702 in moderate wealher naval base al Garden Island in Fax: (02) 790 2907 Suppliers of Engineering. Industrial & Electrical Products conditions. The successful Western Australia on ihe Proud to Ik• Associated with the RAN Proud to he Associated and Best Wishes to all Navy Personnel A. GONINAN & CO. LIMITED from Formerly COCKBURN ENGINEERING WA 147 Barrington Sfieet, Bibra Lake WA 6163 Telephone: (09) 434 1199 Facsimile: (09) 434 1533 SIGMA "A Recommended Service" The Navy's Fleet Base West, HMAS STIRLING, held an Open Day MARINE on November 20, 1994 with its new 314 metre two-deck fleet pier being one of the popular attractions. Officially named the "Diamanfina Pier" at its opening two days before, it had the guided- PROJECTS, missile destroyer HMAS BRISBANE, the guided-missile frigates HMA Proud to be Associated and Best Wishes to all Navy Personnel from Ships ADELAIDE and DARWIN, the submarine HMAS OVENS and The guided missile frigate HMAS DARWIN berths at HMAS STIRLING the patrol boat HMAS BUNBURY alongside. A crowd of 18,000 on 5 January after her return from the high speed mercy dash to rescue poured onto Garden Island for the occasion. (Photo • RAN). NORDSTROM REFRIGERATION lone French yachtswoman, Isabelle Autissier. (I'hoto Navy I'A • WA). 4Ha Rcdford Road, Unit 8, 114 Gilba Road, Girraween NSW 2145 Reservoir Vic 3093 Telephone: (02) 688 2247 Telephone (03) 469 3669 Fax: (02) 631 9697 Fax (03) 469 3662 J GLADE MANUFACTURING J MSA MSA SAFETY 4 © Aeip»«ioiy Con*u»M*/Tou EQUIPMENT 82 Yerrick Road, Lakemba, NSW 2195 Ovei 4.000 Industrial Safety Products lo protect workers Non-Standard Items a Speciality environment and facilities Automatic & Repetition Engineering CONTACT Self Tapping - Metal Thread Screws SALES DEPT: Washers - Full Range of Metric Bolts, Nuts, Screws (02) 688 0399 MSA (AUST) PTY LTD Telephone: (02) 688 0333 Telephone: (02) 750 9444 if Fax No: (02) 896 1835 M CoirmnaiOT 1 The former Attack class patrol boat HMAS ARDENT is now being employed as a navigation and seamansh Facsimile: (02) 758 1361 137 Giitia Road. Gnraween number is A243. (Photo - RAN) 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 20 NAVALNEWS Continued NEWCASTLE - Navy Helicopter Freedom of Entry "Lands on" Pole Motorists driving along the Princes Highway HMAS NEWCASTLE, beware! arrived in iter name port on Navy Marches Wednesday, 25 January, at the on Newcastle Navy helicopter is now is the first helicopter placed start oi her second visit to the visible, flying at an on a pole in Australia for City ot Newcastle. altitude of just four public viewing. The Iroquois he guided missile frigate A The ship berthed alongside metres in the southern Sydney was lifted onto its new HMAS NEWCASTLE was Throsby No. 1 Wharf suburb of Heathcote. "home" at the Heathcote Inn, granted the Freedom of following a ceremonial entry T The machine in question, a Princes Highway on 16 Entry to the City of Newcastle, during which an "eleven gun former Navy UH-IB Iroquois, December. The Naval on Saturday. 28 lanuary. salute" was fired as a mark of In a tradition which dates respect to the City as the back centuries, HMAS frigate moved up Harbour. NEWCASTLE was given the bodies travelled the Before entering the Port ol salute near the Cenotaph. right to march through the City countryside they were rarely Newcastle the ship also The parade continued "with swords drawn, drums down Newcomen Street ard admitted to other cities. conducted a "speed run" off Iroquois 894. (Photo - Bill Cunneen). beating, bands playing, However, in special cases, the City from Merewether along Scott Street before colours flying and in full some bodies of armed men Beach to Nobbys Head. Such concluding after crossing Watt Aviation Museum at HMAS of jervis Bay on the NSW panoply and regalia...". were allowed the special runs are normally undertaken Street. ALBATROSS at Nowra south coast. After being raised privilege of freedom of entry periodically to test the The ceremony was held arranged for the helicopter to and repaired. No. 894 was to a city "with swords drawn, performance of onboard adjacent to the Customs be attached to the four metre returned to operational Background to the drums beating, bands playing, machinery. House in Bond Street, high pole. service, before being formally followed by a march through colours flying and in full Commodore Geoff Morton, retired in 1985. The Iroquois While in Newcastle, the Freedom of Entry the City streets. After a Independent companies of panoply and regalia...". It was Commanding Officer of was then placed on public ship's company provided challenge by the Police in armed men were maintained mark of great trust and close HMAS ALBATROSS officially display at the Naval Aviation practical support to the Hunter Watt Street outside Customs by the various land owning links between the men and the presented the vintage Museum. Orthopaedic School and on House, the parade continued nobles in medieval Europe. citizens of the city. At the city helicopter to the citizens of Friday, 27 lanuary, 40 sailors Heathcotes most unusual up to and then along Hunter Often there were disputes and gates, the unit would be Heathcote. from NEWCASTLE undertook tourist attraction will be visible Street where the Lord Mayor, tensions between them and challenged by the guard and a working bee at the school, Iroquois No. 894 was first from the Princes Highway and Councillor John McNaughton. the threat of occupation or after production of evidence, cleaning up the grounds and flown by the Fleet Air Arm in at night will "glow" with all its AM and Maritime Commander attack and looting of towns usually in the form of a scroll Commodore Geoff Moreton from HMAS ALBATROSS at the official 1964, but on 25 November navigation lights burning carrying out landscaping tasks. from city, the unit would be *** Australia. Rear Admiral C>on and cities was ever present. handover of the Iroquois to the Heathcote Inn. (Photo Bill Cunneen). 1970 ditched into the waters brightly. Chalmers. AO. RAN took the Hence, whenever armed granted permission to enter. The United States Navy nuclear-powered Los Angeles-class submarine USS INDIANAPOLIS (SSN-697) seen proceeding down Cockbum Sound on 4 November for a two day visit to HMAS STIRLING prior to her participating in "Exercise Lungfish" with the RAN submarines ONSLOW, ORION and OVENS off the West Australian coast. USS INDIANAPOLIS operated from Fleet Base West between 20 October and lb November. She was alongside for the opening of the new Australian Submarine Squadron Headquarters on 14 November. (Photo • RAN). 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 22 NAVALNEWS Continued likely in the event of a fire at controls each individual fire, Navy Ablaze sea. has the capacity to run, in real The gas-fired helicopter fire time, up to five training levels training facility, demonstrated of increasing difficulty. The oyal Australian Naval training facility is geared to at the opening was also on the sophisticated design of the gas personnel subdued a train all naval personnel how site. It is capable of simulating fired training units, enables the spectacular helicopter to fight and beat tires in ships R a major crash fire, engine fire, fires to react to the way a fire at Jervis Bay in mid and aircraft. The lacility is gas- cockpit fire ... or a firefighting team performs, February. tired and believed to be the combination of all three. therefore allowing complete The blaze was the major safest and most A central computer which realism in training. highlight at the opening of the environmentally friendly fire Navy's new gas-fired training unit in the c ountry. Firefighting Training Fac ility at It is designed to resemble HMAS CKESWELl. lervis Bay. the structure of a warship, by the Minister lor Defence. with decks, watertight doors Senator Robert Ray. The and compartments to give school's new fire fighting students the feel of conditions Ship Ashore! arts salvaged from a Navy reliance and lower training ship were formally costs for the Royal Australian Punveiled at Garden Island Navy. The new facility houses on 17 February. As part of the nine functional radar and project, the Navy expects to weapon systems as fitted in save $12 million over the next the RAN's destroyers and five years. frigates. The parts including radars All up, the scheme and weapon systems, mainly involved the purchase of came from the former US GOLDSBOROUGH from the guided missile destroyer United States, stripping the GOlDSBOROUGH - were ship and installing several of installed in the Navy's new its combat systems in the Combat Systems Maintenance School. School, opened by the Chief An excellent example of of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral co-operation between Rod Taylor. Defence and private industry, Resulting from an initiative the Combat Systems to conduct training in Maintenance School will offer Australia that was formerly all the advantages of its undertaken in the United American counterparts while Panoramic view of HMAS WATERHEN in Sydney, during its current modernisation. Most of the older structures have been removed States, the opening of the new also incorporating various prior to the new buildings. 24 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 25 Charting The Northern Coastline HMAS GERANIUM 1919-1927 By Lieutenant G.J. Swinden, RAN ! Launched at Greenock, Scotland on 8 November 1915 HMS GERANIUM was a Flower Class Sloop of some 1250 tons and capable of 16'A knots. GERANIUM arrived in Australia in late 1919 with her sister ships MARGUERITE and MALLOW to conduct minesweeping operations (to clear minefields laid by the German raider Wolf in 1917). The three enjoyed limited success as only one mine was swept, this being off Cape Everard, Victoria on 8 September 1919. ll three were decommissioned from ten officers and one hundred and three eyes as they were unable to completely the Royal Navy in Sydney on 18 ratings. Depths in shallow water were wash the dust from their eyes and skin. calculated by lead line - a rope with a lead The former RAN training ship HMAS IERVIS AOctober of that year and handed Being in harbour was not all hard BAY sails from Sydney to begin the third over to the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) weight on the end was cast into water and work, leave or liberty was allowed and the phase of her career. (Photo • Tom Strasser). as part of Britain's "Gift Fleet" to the RAN. the depth read off from marks on the rope. local hotels received a large amount of This comprised six modern destroyers, six Many a long day from early morning until patronage from the GERANIUM'S men. submarines and three sloops. dusk was spent in a ship's boat pulling These included the Continental and Star From late 1919 until decommissioned through bays and inlets as the lead was Hotels in Broome, the Terminus and on 23 luly 1927 HMAS GERANIUM was swung to record the depth. Tides were Victoria in Darwin and the Torres Strait employee! as a Survey Vessel in Australia's gauged by setting up a tide pole and a and Metrapole at T.I. (Thursday Island). Agios party of men would be detailed off to northern waters. After being paid off she THE GERGER's next survey was off the lay in reserve at Sydney until 1932 when watch the pole. Each hour for several days South West Coast of Tasmania, but in she was handed over to Cockatoo Island the depth would be read and recorded. 1923 she returned to warmer climes when Andreas for dismantling. On 24 April 1935 the During their off duty hours (the dog she conducted surveys of the Great Barrier GERANIUM, was sunk off Sydney Heads. watches) the men wcxild often gather on Reef, Arnheim Bay in the Gulf of These are the bare facts concerning HMAS the forecastle for a sing song or spend their Carpentaria and Roel>uck Bay at Broome. Tenders for the sale of the former GERANIUM as found in any reasonable time catching sharks, which were prevalent The 1923 survey was particularly in northern waters. The polishing of HMAS JERVIS BAY closed in text concerning the history of the RAN. interesting for several reasons, not the least such as George Odgers, The RAN. an tortoise shell and pearl shell as souvenirs of all being a mutiny of sorts. On the way Sydney on 30 November 1994, Illustrated History. What is left out, for family and friends was also a popular north, THE GERGER called in at Cairns and the ship was sold for $2.1m obviously through lack of space, in these and leave was granted. That night some ot on 23 December. general histories is the actual history of the the men who were ashore and under the ship what did she do. where did she go influence of alcohol ran across the Captain During 16 years service with the and who were the men who served in her. **The need for adequate charts (Commander Harry Bennett. DSO. RN) RAN, IERVIS BAY provided For much of her career GERANIUM or of Australia's coastline was, and and Lieutenant |.P. Dixon, RN, and thousands ot young trainees with as she was known to her crew THE proceeded to use foul language in front on their first taste of life at sea, visiting many GERGER was emploved as a survey vessel still is, a necessity for the safe them. Later that night when Dixon parts of the world, as part of the returned onlxwrd he found some oily rags in Australia's northern waters. The RAN passage of vessels in our waters, Australian Fleet. One of its last tasks was Survey Service began in 1921 and and peanut shells littering his cabin. Dixon to ferry Australian peace-keeping troops GERANIUM was specially fitted out to as most of Australia's trade enters was not liked by the crew of GERANIUM, to and from Mogadishu in Somalia. carry out survey duties. The period between being described as "a RN man who insists Launched at Newcastle in 1969. the March and November of each year was and leaves through her ports and on discipline and will have things just so. rx 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 27 HMAS GERANIUM 1919-1927 From point lo point on an endless track Smilh. at the point where he crossed Pulling oars and straining the back. Australia on his flight Irom Britain in 1919. In the bows of the boat the leadsman Hcjwever. matters did not improve. One of keeps the GERANIUM'S men returned from leave drunk and instead of going onboard Alert of mind, to call the marks and deeps. GERANIUM went aboard the steamer After many weeks of labour - to Port for MONTORO (which travelled between liberty Darwin and Sydney) and went to sleep. Then back upon the survey ground, When found by the MONTORO's crew he- recording accurately did not want to leave and it took nearly The shoals, reefs and shallows and two hours to remove him from the vessel. hazards of the sea Another incident arose when several To make it safe for other ships, to travel Aborigines were brought onboard to carry trouble free. out menial jobs, five were paid the price of one beer a day while the head On shore the "Tide Pole Party", hourly Aboriginal was paid the price ot one note the tide whiskey a day. What upset the crew was Registering the rise and fall, a pole their this Aboriginal was allowed to use a only guide. ladder, which was reserved purely for the A relief from sounding party, billeted on use of Petty Officers and above and land which, it they dared to place a foot on. Awake, they keep their vigil, from tents would result in instant punishment. pitched on the sand. Matters did not improve when GERANIUM put to sea and !>egan survey Eight months of constant toiling, then for Sydney bound work in the Gulf of Carpentaria. In the Sir were being taken ashore the cutler in before decommissioning was on 13 May Suspension of "hard layers", instead long Edward Pellew Group of islands, several which they were being carried was 1927 when she towed ihe passenger ship leave is found. officers wenl ashore and became lost in a accidentally rammed by a Pearl lugger. TASMAN off a reef al Clarke Island. On 23 A routine which created, a brotherhood of mangrove swamp and look an entire day Later, oft' Moreton Bay, heavy wealher July 1927, GERANIUM was paid off inlo man to get back to ihe ship. Another officer was encountered and THE GERGER had to reserve and later sunk. There is little to By working close together, when survey discovered in the scrub of Turtle Island a put into harbour. remind Australians today of the valuable strange log which was painted red and work began. Finally, GERANIUM reached Sydney, work done by the GERANIUM. One of her yellow with plugs of mud and leaves at Ihe ship docked and repairs were made. ship's company, was so proud of her, he The "Cergers" work is forever, plotted on each end. Pulling out one of the plugs the This survey cruise was over and many a even burst into verse, detailing THE the chart officer found lhal the log had been sigh of relief was breathed. The cruise had GERGER and her activities: Around Australia's coastline, many poles hollowed out and contained Aboriginal Officer) we will be anchoring in five capstan to pull the GERANIUM off the nol been a total disaster: Adequate surveys apart. remains. The log was taken back lo minutes'. So I left Ihe bridge and made my reef. One cable parted but the other had l>een conducted and several types of HMAS GERANIUM Ships now travel on routes the "Cerger" GERANIUM where the Aboriginal workers way along the boat deck and clown ihe remained firm and enabled THE GERGER fish not known to exist in Australian When World War I had ended and peace pioneered onboard went into a frenzy, refusing to ladder lo the quarterdeck and just as I said. lo get oft the reef. The anchors had to be waters had also been discovered. had been restored, With men of the Survey Service who touch the log, and calling out thai it Three sweepers ot the Flower class came 'Compliments of the Captain No 1 we are set by hand, each being taken out and set By Oc tober 1923, GERANIUM was worked and persevered. contained a devil. under Navy Board. going to anchor in five minutes', when all by one of the ship's boats. Once off the again in northern waters on survey work Chief Petty Officer Lovell Mears Nine days later the GERANIUM, whilst Two to sweep our coastline, destroying of a sudden we hii this reef. She rolled to reef THE GERGER's troubles were nol and on 12 October towed the passenger Boxsell, as published in Open Sea. preparing to anchor, struck an uncharted enemy mines starboard then to port straightened up with over. She began to take water through vessel MONTORO off Young Reef in, the A more poignant reminder is on reef near Vanderlin Island. Able Seaman The other one for survey work in our her snout up in Ihe air and her stern partly several holes in the hull but fortunately Great Barrier Reef. Soldiers Point on Melville Island's east Alec Chixik Fowler was on the bridge al sul)merged. No 1 said. Fowler I think we these were plugged by divers with cement, In 1924, GERANIUM embarked a Northern climes. coast. There lie several rusted iron poles the time and remembers the event. "At are well and truly bltxxfv well anchored'. which was used onboard for making Fairey HID float plane for use in survey and a concrete bench mark bearing the about 1530 I asked the skipper if he The "Gerger" was selected to map our Well it was all hands lo ihe pumps and survey benchmarks. work, thus becoming the first Australian inscription HMAS GERANIUM 1917. But required the sounding machine going and coast and Bays ship to use an aircraft in survey work. In perhaps her most noticeable legacy are the he said, 'No Fowler, we've been in this what ever could be spared had to be GERANIUM then made passage to And modernise the many charts made in 1925, a second survey vessel. HMAS charts that were produced from the data area before.' I was the sounding recorder moved aft. All the heavy gear from the Thursday Island, but encountered bad earlier days. MORESBY, commissioned. From 1925 she collected. Although now updated, and I couldn't remember being there mining room amidships below the weather. After this, it was decided to take From Darwin down to Bynoe, from until 1927 GERANIUM and MORESBY they were for many years the only reliable before, but then who was lo have a l>etter messdeck was manhandled off. the Aboriginal remains ashore as many of Broome to Arnheim Land operated together in northern waters. charts for navigation in our northern memory than an officer. The Captain then Commander Bennett put out Iwo the crew believed they were responsible From early morn till late at night, the lead waters. told me, 'go aft and tell No 1 (the Executive anchors, and hauled in ihe cable by the for jinxing the ship. Even as the remains One of THE GERGER's last actions was heaved by hand. r.r.r Proud to be Associated and Best Wishes v m m to All Navy Personnel from I.R. EMBROIDERIES ftarv ARCADIA-CHEM PTVLTD 72-76 Fenton Street, Huntingdale Vic 3166 ROYSTON (Inc«»T|>onitcd in Victoria) DIESEL SALES PTY LTD ISECO Specialists in (Aqua-Chcm Division) ' Embroidery by the metre We can <• Ifer a superior senwe to the prmiiremeiu <>/ genuine OEM Diesel F.ngme Spares uith our many years of Importing expmence Worlluide. REFRIGERATION • Allover Embroidery DIESEL ENGINE FngM Elect. Rushm. Paxman. BUkstmv. Mirrfces. eh Suppliers of Distillation Plants • Badges • Yokes • Pockets • Collars • Cuffs Tl'RBOCHARGERS: Napier. Brou-n Bmm. Holvt. etc to Department of Navy 38 Boyland Avenue, Coopen Plains, Qld 4108 • Guipure • Iron on Motifs FUEL INJECTION: Bryce. B ,>uh. I.'Orange. Dmop. etc Telephone: (07) 277 8599 If It's Embroidery we can do It PO Box 1062, W'angara 6065 39 Malcolm Road, Mordialloc, Vic 3195 Fax: (07) 875 1392 Unit 3. 37 Dcllamarta Road. Wangara, Western Australia Telephone: (03) 580 1655 Telephone: (09) 309 1366 Telephone (03) 544 6777 Fax: (03) 580 8337 SUPPLIERS OF REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT Facsimile (03) 562 6372 Facsimile: (09) 309 1374 28 The Navy, April-J jne 1995 The Navy, April-tune 1995 29 I A History Revisited ALMA DOE PC L. taken in December 1959. (Photo L. Hex) Good Ship "Alma Doepel" Sleek hulled "ALMA DOEPEL" was once a famous But they were wanted in thousands and so men from all schooner. Three-masted, full of sail, she held the walks of life, who thought they would like to try the army in a A member of the North Coast Steam Navigation Company, the 1911 vintage coaster COOLEBAK also served as an auxiliary minesweeper. Hobart - Port Phillip crossing record. ditferent role, volunteered. That wasn't much over two years ago. Today they are sailing ships of over 300 tons. he was pretty under canvas, with the wind behind her ond When the army took over the old "Alma", contractors water curling from shapely bows so pretty she caught the stripped her, leaving only the heavy toremast sticking above the Sfancy of artists. Paintings of her hang in more than one hull. They added cabins, installed engines, put in armament, a Australian hotel. bridge and wheel house. Army tried her out, did more things and One day recently she put out of Sydney bound tor Brisbane made her a !>etter ship. and many points north. But they didn't call her the "Alma AK82 AK stands tor army ketch weighed I SO tons, with a Doepel" then. She had a symbol on her !>ows and across her 105 feel length at the waterline. Crow's nest of the big mast was boat deck a big AK82. She carried 65 feet above water, one of the engines instead of sail and a high causes, said an old seaman on wheel house and bridge. They spoilt board, that made her buck in a her lines a bit, but they were They call her "Dopey seaway. modern touches. There was the usual forecastle Scars and chips and cracks in Alma" but no ship afloat with bunks and tables, the home of her hull were buried beneath putty the soldier-seamen, comparatively and brand new paint. She was grey has a prouder crew comfortable, decidedly small. A big from mast tip to rudder. hold took up the rest of Ix'low-dec k The "Alma Doepel" was on than hers. space to the engine room, a neat active service. place of green paint and shining The army's sailors manned her, copper and bright moving wheels, men who in peace days were shearers, cooks, solicitors, counter but hot and noisy; certainly no paradise when water poured in hands, horse breakers and apparently everything except seamen. while rounding the location of Captain Cook's troubles - Cape But now they were talking of galleys instead of kitchens, watches Tribulation. instead of fatigues, and they studied charts in place of maps. Aft, was the master's cabin, high but poky, with cupboards for Ot course, affectionately they called her "Dopey Alma", but walls, filled by radio sets, a zunk, a table where charts were they were proud of her. She was making her maiden voyage prepared. under the flag of the Water Transport branch of the Royal Above deck was the forward ward room, or in other words, Australian Engineers, which controls the army's small craft. the sergeants' mess, the bunks of the first, second and third lap entry into the war caused the birth of army small craft. engineers and bosun, and a table fitting it ... then the galley, so Island fighting meant little ships to get to places where troops small that one should be a Dante to work in it, the four by three- were likely to be stationed. Those little ships would have to carry foot space being taken up by a fuel stove and bench. stores and equipment, sometimes men; be able to dodge around Then the aft ward room, or officers' mess, an oblong seven by reefs, in and out of bays where larger vessels could not go. four, the greater part housing a kerosene refrigerator, which Willing men from all units of the army were transferred. didn't work properly because kerosene refrigerators, instructions Above all, this new branch was looking for fellows who had had say, have to be set and kept level. Travelling level was not a War. PATERSON was pre-war experience with ships in the islands, and it is perhaps habit of the AK82. employed as an auxiliary minesweeper. IPhoto - Newcastle Maritime Museum). not surprising that they were found in hundreds. Front Army: |une-july 1945. 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 30 DERWENT IN THE DEEP Above: The battered hulk of the former destroyer escort DERWENT is towed to her watery grave off the West Australia coast. (Photo NALCO EXXON ENERGY DERWENT IN THE DEEP Navy PA. WA). CHEMICALS Australia Pty Ltd Q>4 Jervois Street. Torrensville SA 5031 DERWENT as a recreational diving wreck By Vic Jeffery off the WA coast, ihis concept being Telephone (OS) 234-1773 abandoned when the ship was Fax (OB) 234-1255 The battered hulk of the former Royal Australian navy destroyer escort DERWENT was sunk 15 nautical considered loo dangerous lo be suitable for use as a dive wreck. SUPPLIERS OF OIL SPILL DISPERSANTS miles west of Rottnest on Wednesday, 21 December, after being towed into position by the medium naval DERWENT sank in two minutes and (Official Contractors, to the Navy) tug TAMMAR. 55 seconds. cuttled in the Rollnesl Trench ot ship around 1.30pm after selling the Since its decommissioning al HMAS 2.30pm (local time) the ship now demolition charges. STIRLING on August 8. IM94 DERWENT Srests in 200 metres ot water alter .1 DERWENT now forms a fish attracting has undergone a unique series of number of small explosive charges were device wilh local angling groups survivability lests carried out in detonated inside the ship's hull. claiming it will become a haven lor a conjunction wilh ihe Defence Science Divers from Australian Clearance great deal of marine life and help keep and Technology Organisation. Diving Team Four were removed off ihe marlin and yellow-fin (una in the area. Initially il was proposed lo sink Air BP Air BP, proud suppliers of Jet A-1 frhm.Australian Fresh to the Royal Australian Navy FRUIT JUICES - DRINKS SALES & DISTRIBUTION Air BP SUNBURST REGENCY FOODS BP Australia Limited 6/420 St Kilda Rd 43 WANGARA ROAD, Melbourne Vic 3004 CHEITENHEM, VIC 3192 TELEPHONE: (03) 584 8666 Ph: (03) 268 4301 FACSIMILE: (03) 584 7363 Fax: (03) 820 1548 (Photo • DERWENT is shrouded in smoke as a series of pre-set demolition charges are set inside the ship. "Proud Suppliers to H.M.A.S. Cerberus" Navy PA. WA). (Photo • Navy PA. WA). 32 The Navy, April June 1995 The NJW. April-Jim* 1995 33 THE KAISER'S PIRATES - these ships begins the 1994 edition and provides an German Surface Raiders interesting description of the in World War One vessels and their capabilities, especially when one compares By them to the Victorian and later John Walter RAN monitor CERBERUS. Reviewed By Chapters are also devoted Joe Straczek to the Royal Navy's Abdiel class fast minelayers and the r Walter has written origins of Canadian Carrier an interesting book on Aviation, with all illustrations a naval aspect of the accompanying the text of the M highest quality. As usual the First World War which is usually glossed over in favour editor has described the year's of battles such as Jutland and new construction, deletions, the Falklands. The German modernisations, activities and aviation aspects in The Naval The mothballed destroyer USS DECATUR refitted is a demonstration platform for the United States Navy's new self-defence systems. Navy's operations against Britain's sea lines of Year in Review. Naval Books communication almost cost of 1994 and Warship Notes Britain the war. These complete another fine annual. operations consisted of the use Conway have over the Final Role - USS Decatur of surface vessels and years become renowned for operations which saw the "The Kaiser's Pirates", is, The U.S. Navy plans to use a former warship as a test platform to demonstrate the effectiveness of the submarines. Mr Walter's book destruction of the apart from ihe title, a very well the quality of their naval examines the operations of the KONIGSBERG. HMAS books. This policy continues service's burgeoning ship self-defence efforts. written, illustrated and former. BRISBANE'S hunt for the researched book which helps into 1995. In his lengthy, bul very WOLF. Like EMDEN a number to contribute to an aspect of y using a remotely controlled Congress added $11 million to the measure the system's reaction time or if valuable, introduction the of the other German ships the Great War generally warship, ihe Navy will be able lo Navy's 1995 budget to speed the the amount of firepower was adequate. author provides an overview were the ships of the German overlooked. The book should conduct more realistic and dramatic integration of a full Ship Self-Defence Until SSDS is deployed, ihe lest ship B of the naval and maritime Pacific Squadron which appeal to a wide range of tests, aiming actual anti-ship cruise System ISSDS) into the lest ship to ensure will be outfitted with the Phalanx close- environment at the outbreak of HMAS AUSTRALIA and other missiles at ihe lest ship to gauge ihe that the future system is fully tested. in weapon system, the NATO Sea naval enthusiasts and is highly the Great War. He covers such units of the RAN searched for effectiveness of its ship self-defence The extra funding will help speed Ihe Sparrow anti-air missile and an recommended. issues as the development ol in vain during the opening systems, service officials said. installation of a complete SSDS suite lor electronic warfare suite, Whalen said. the German Empire, the stages of the war. The Navy has long been stymied in ils ai-sea testing, Whalen said. The Rolling Airframe Missile will be importance of commerce, the The presentation of the efforts to lest sophisticated aniiship cruise The system is destined for deployment added to the ship over the next year, he development of the turbine book is very pleasing wilh two missiles against real ships because of safety aboard virtually every class of warship, added. and the Etappe system. In exceptions. The bibliography, concerns and ihe reluclance lo potentially amphibious assault ship and aircraft Having a dedicated lest ship also will many ways this introduction normally found at the back is WARSHIP 1994 damage active warships, service officials carrier. speed the schedule for testing critical helps set Ihe stage for the located in the front of the said. While initial tests of SSDS were elements of the SSDS. Whalen said, second part of the lx>ok. book and half way through the Edited By Having a ship dedicated to testing will successfully conducted in 1993 aboard because the Navy will no longer be histories of the individual John Roberts address many ol the long-standing the amphibious assault ship USS forced lo wait lor an active ship to raiders is a list of German concerns about the capability of the self- Whidbey Island, the fact that it was an become available to perform the tests. Published By warships on colonial stations. defence systems the Navy is developing active ship limited the kinds of tests that With the overall number of naval Conway Maritime Press Both of these would have and will make those systems more could be carried out, Whalen said. ships declining, it is becoming more been better placed at the rear Reviewed By effective, lames Whalen, program manager The lests proved the system's difficult to find ships available lor testing. of the book. Ross Gillett for ship self-defence systems at the Naval architecture was sound, but couldn't Whalen said. Sea Systems Command. Arlington. The author's, or more ROYAL AUSTRALIAN Virginia, said in a December 12 interview. possibly publisher's, use of the he latest yearbook from NAVY the Conway stable is a "I think wilh a manned ship you just term pirates is very misleading. compilation of sixteen have lo put on so many iimitalions that These were men of war T Profile No. 4 you always leave a fairly broad gap of engaged in the destruction of articles researched by many of New Construction Ships CAN WE FULFIL YOUR REQUIREMENTS an enemies military the world's leading naval credibility about whether this system will and Auxiliary Vessels capabilities. If they were really act correctly in wartime," Whalen The second section of Mr writers. pirates then so to were British said. IN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING AREAS? Walter's book deals with the Conway's annual provides By men of war engaged in the "Being able lo lest all the way to final individual ships engaged in a variety of technical, naval Michael Wilson destruction of German firing adds credibility," he said. commerce destruction. The aviation and historical writings • Light Metal Engineering merchant shipping. Published By The Navy has taken the mothballed technical details are given for on the world's navies. Well Topmill Pty Ltd destroyer USS DECATUR and revamped it each ship. This is followed by In many ways the known American naval • Indoor Plants - Rental & Re-Sale 102 Victoria Road, to serve as a test ship. a detailed narrative of the commerce raiders of ihe Great commentator, Norman Marrickvilie NSW 2204 The former warship was essentially • Printed Material career of Ihe vessel. This War were victims of Friedman discusses the gulled internally with ils entire engine section is supj>orted by a fine technology. Unlike their massive development of the Reviewed By system and weapons removed from the • Book Binding & Repair se'ection of photographs sailing predecessors they post Second World War mine Tony Matte rson ship. showing the ships concerned required constant supplies of counter measures ships of the coal to remain operational. A new remotely controlled engine was • French Polishing and other vessels, either prey United States Navy and from avy Profile No. 4, just Their presence in a given area installed that allows the ship to achieve or ultimate nemesis. Details of the now "free" Russia comes released by Topmill, is could be broadcast to the speeds of about 8 knots, Whalen said. lesser raiders are provided in two articles on the Chapayev the largest of the series an Annex al the back as are world through the use of N Martin Marietta Services Group, Cherry and Svediov class cruisers and so far published. The Profile details of vessels sunk or taken radio, thus attracting the Hill, New Jersey, refurbished the ship and Wacol Correctional Centre the Baltic dreadnoughts of the describes Ihe new as prizes. unwanted attention of enemy will provide ongoing maintenance and Sevastapol class battleships. construction ships of the PO Box 600 Darra, Qld 4076 warships. While some of the support to the program, company of Some of the raiders During the late 1800s and 1995-2004 period and the achievements of these ships officials said. described have important early 1900s, the Swedish Navy ocean-going and harbour Station Rd, Wacol, Qld 4076 were spectacular their overall NUliANIIIFAF historical connections to the constructed and sailed a series support vessels in service "We install and integrate all the combat contribution was not large Tel: (07) 271 9511 RAN. EMDEN was sunk by since 1911. systems lo be tested on the ship," Neal INDUSTRIES when compared to the of powerful monitors for use HMAS SYDNEY. HMAS Linkon, company spokesman, said Fax: (07)271 4501 submarine. as coast defence ships. Author For many years now naval December 13. PIONEER was involved in Daniel Harris' description of enthusiasts have been 12 The Navy, April-June 1995 The Navy, April-June 1995 35 BOOK REVIEWS Contractors to the Department of Defence WARSHIP LATE NEWS Adacel Cummins Seven South East Asian Australian Software Diesel Nations In Australian Engineering Excellence Sponsored Maritime Sales & Event Service Ships, aircraft and more than 5000 military personnel from seven South East Asian countries came together in a major fleet concentration period in north Australian waters during March. DISTRIBUTORS FOR: aritime units from the defence forces of Australia. New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, • Cummins Diesel Engines MIndonesia and Hong Kong (United Kingdom) gathered in the Timor Sea for a range of training activities • Fleetguard Fillers and manoeuvres. Naval observers from the Philippines brought to eight the number of countries represented in Fleet Concentration Period (FCP) KAKADU 2. • TEC50 - Total Engine KAKADU 2 is the second Fleet Concentration Period in Coolant the KAKADl) series, the first having been conducted in 1993. FCP KAKADU 2 represented more than twice the number of maritime assets and personnel as KAKADU 1, being • Onan Generator Sets primarily an Australian work-up activity before Australian units deploy to South-East Asia. • Duffield Hydraulic Hose & searching lor a low cost series from the well known and long The FCP, which was centred on Darwin, provided an of RAN profiles. At only serving PLATYPUS and IERVIS opportunity for bilateral activities between Australia's Fittings $12.95 per booklet, this is |ust BAY through to the "maids of maritime forces and those of our South East Asian the set. The profiles portray all work", the versatile general neighbours. The concentrated training environment of the • Real-time Systems the growth in individual ships purpose vessels and motorised • Dayco Belts and Hoses FCP, rich in maritime assets, benefited all participants and • Air Traffic Control and the larger classes via a lighters. was another example of increasing defence co-operation in comprehensive historical and For this profile, various our region. Apart from general training in damage control > Simulators technical narrative. This latest tables set out the basic and communications procedure and interaction between air, • Air Defence in the sehes. No. 4, continues technical specifications of all surface and subsurfacp assets, the FCP provided a wide range 50 KEWDALE ROAD that trend, with additional of the purpose built units with of other opportunities including personnel exchanges and • Automated Test Systems colour pages to illustrate the an additional annex devoted work in explosive ordnance disposal techniques used by WELSHPOOL new Collins class submarines, to ship's names and pendant clearance divers. • Communications Anzac class frigates, Huon numbers. Photographically, FCP KAKADU 2 involved 22 ships, 2 submarines and class coastal minehunters and Profile No. 4, New • C31 maritime patrol and fighter aircraft and helicopters. For the the two recently purchased Construction Ships and Phone: first time, an Indonesian warship participated in the FCP • Validation and Verification helicopter vessels, KANIMBLA Auxiliary Vessels, more than KAKADU series with Ihe TNI-AL Frigate KRI FATAHILLAH and MANOORA. matches the earlier • Safety Critical Software participating in the Harbour Phase of activities in Darwin. publications, with all of the The support ships are sub- FCP KAKADU 2 began on 1 3 March and concluded on • DoD-Std-2167A 458 5911 black and white images well divided into the ocean/coastal 31 March. and harbour service types produced on quality paper. • AS3563 Fax: •OOD Pioud suppliers lo the Royal Australian Navy GRANTHAM • Ada 458 2394 LODGE > C++ ALCAN ALUMINIUM / Serviced CENTRES Apartments BRWCHES AT: A Division of Alcan Australia Limited Convenient loc»d,np*«,8»usr«l, KALGOORLIK: . Point - opposite HMAS 00 • INDUS THY, TRADE, DO-IT-YOURSELF vr K""abul -close lo shopping Phone (090) 21 2588 - Commanding View - and |ounM cen|res an(1 Kore4 Stockists and Suppliers ol a Comprehensive Range ot of restaurants - all suites and Fax(090) 21 7878 • Sheet am) Plate • Extrusions • Alcan Architectural Systems and Suites studios are self-contained with a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, 250 Bay Street, Brighton, For all your Product and Service needs call us no* colour television, swimming pool - plus international direct dial pnones. guest Victoria, Australia 3186 KARRATIIA: laundry, child care and friendly personalised service. EMU FARM: S92 CUflTM AVENUE Spcci.il Rates for Navy Personnel Telephone: +613 596 2991 Phone(091) 44 4646 Teltphoat: (07)2*01770. Fai: (07)2001140 FOR RESERVATIONS OR A BROCHURE CALL Fax: +613 596 2960 Fax (091) 43 1507 THE EASY PUCE 10 (UY ALUMINIUM SYDNEY (02) 357 2377 FREE CALL 008 249 706 or FAX (02) 358 1435 36 The Navy, April-June 1995 * . AAPI The strategic edge. ADI Marine. Garden Island. NSW 2(MM), Australia Tel: (02) 562 3298. Fax: (02) 562 3821