JANUARY - MARCH 2003 65 NO. I $5.45 (including GST) A
The Magazine of the Navy l eague of Australia
Australia's Maritime Doctrine - Part 7 e Republic of ^Singapore Navy The Pakistan Vivv Ivpc -1 hngatc P\S SH MIJAIIAN iDIH.-IKftMcvllMS \( 11\ I I p..NNC> the I S KKi i)SS Rt l-HI N IAMI S I Ik I sn and Pakistani Navies were participating in exercise 'Inspired Siren 02" Inspired Siren 02 was a I S -Pakistani bilateral exercise involving surface ami an forces from both nations I he exercise was designed to enhance interoperabilitv and tactical prol'u icncv as well is refine and strengthen the existing relationship ol the two Navies il SN>
\ new l ll-f»o kmghthawk helicopter assigned t«< the "Chargers" of Helicopter Support Squadron SIX prepares to pick up ordnance on the flight deck of I'SS f klSNi m tC V-67) dunng an ammunition off-load with LSS HARR> S K A VS) The CH-60 is one of three helicopters being considered as additional amphibious trtx>p lift helicopters from the Australian Arffft However, despite resembling an Army Black Hawk that's where tts cornmonalitx ends tl'SNt THE NAVY FEDERAL COUNCIL Patron la Chief: His Excellency. The Governor General. Volume 65 No. 1 : Graham M Hanis. RFD : RADM AJ. Robertson. AO. DSC. RAN (Rtdl: John Bird. CDRE IIJ.P. Adams. AM. RAN (Rtd). CAPT H.A Josephs. AM. RAN (Rtd) Hon. Secretary: Ray Corboy. PO Box 309. Mt Waverley. Vie M49 Contents Telephone: (03) 9888 1977, Fax: |03> 9888 1083 NEW SOUTH WALES DIVLSION THE REPUBLIC OF SINGAPORE NAVY Patron: Her Excellency. The Governor of New South Wales. By George Kaplan Page 3 President: R O Albert. AO. RFD. RD Him. Secretary: J C J Jcrpesen. OAM. RFD GPO Box 1719. Sydney. NSW 1013 THE SEASPR1TE HELICOPTER Telephone (02) 9232 2144. Fax: (02l 9232 8383 By Paul Johnston Page 7 VICTORIA DIVISION Patron: His Excellency. The Governor of Victoria. THE WATSON CLASS SEALIFT SHIP President: j M Wilkins. RFD'. Hon. Secretary : Ray Gill. PO Box 1303. Box Hill. Vic 3128 By Ian Johnson Page 10 Telephone: (03) 9884 6237. Fax: (031 9884 4482. Email: rgill I (foptusnci.com.au AUSTRALIA'S MARITIME DOCTRINE Membership Secretary: LCDR Tom Kilhum MBE. RFD. VRD Part 7 Page 12 Telephone: <03l 9560 9927. PO Box 1303 Box Hill VIC 3128 QUEENSLAND DIVISION •: His Excellency. The Governor of Queensland. Regular Features 4:1 M Fraser. OAM Hon. Secretary: Adnan Borwick. PO Box 13402. George Street Post Shop. From the Crow's Nest Page 2 Brisbane. Qld 4003. Telephone: 107) 3263 1319 From Our Readers Page 2 State Branches: Calms: A Cunnecn. PO Box 1009. Caims. Qld 4870. Flash Traffic Page 18 Telephone: (07)4054 1195 Observations Page 26 Towmvllle: I McDougall. PO Box 1478. Tcwnsville. Qld 4810. "telephone: (07) 4772 4588 League Policy Statement Page 32 Macfcay: K Millward. PO Box 5527. Qld 4741 Telephone: (07) 4942 2965. Buadaberg: I Lohse. PO Box 5141. Bundaherg West. Qld 4670. The opinion* or assertions npnwd in THE NAVY an those of Telephone (07)4151 2210. the authors and not necessarily those of the Federal Council of the Southport: I V Font. PO Box 946. Southport. Qld 4215 Navy l-eague of Australia, the Editor of THE NAVY, the RAN Telephone: (07) 5532 2447 or the Department ot Defence. The KdHor welcomes correspondence, SOUTH AUSTRALIAN DIVLSION photographs and contributions and will assume that by making Patron: Her Excellency. The Governor of South Australia. submissions, contributors agree that all material may he used President: Alan Prcskctt. RFD. 15 Sleeps Hill Drive. Panorama SA 5041. free of charge, edited and amended at the Editor's discretion. Hoa. Secretary: Miss J E. Gill. GPO Box 1529. Adelaide. SA 5001. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the Telephone: 108) 8272 6435 (Hi permission of the Editor. TASMANIAN DIVLSION Patron: His Excellency. The Governor of Tasmania President: Mrs J.M. Cooper. 42 Amv Road. Launceston. Tas. 7250 Froat cover: The Singapore corvette RSS VALOUR. RSS VALOL'R was Telephone and Fax: (03) 6344 1531. the first Victory class corvette to he built in Singapore with the lead vessel Hon. Secretary: Mi K. Hurd. 36 Strahan Road. Launceston. Tas. 7250 being built in Germany. This corvette carries an impressive armament that Telephone: (03)6344 1191. puts it in the class or a fngate. Sec our special on the Republic of Stale Branches: Singapore Navy on page 3. (Brian Morrison. Warships and Marine Corps l aunceston: Mr A. Lanham. 67 Hardwick Street. Launceston. Tas. 7250 Museum. Franklin. Tas). Telephone: (03) 6344 3245. Ulverstoae: Mr D. Cunningham. P.O. Box 93. Ulverstone. Tas. 7315 Telephone: (03)M25 21M. Devoaport: Mr P. O'Lcary. 11 Tatman Place. Devonport. Tas 7310. Telephone: (03) W24 5064. Buraie: Mr G. Davis. 40 Cherry Street. Bumie. Tas 7320. Telephone: (03) 6431 4023. WE.STERN AUSTRALIAN DIVISION The Navy Patroa: His Excellency. The Governor of Western Australia. All letters and contributions to: President: A H Hewitt. JP Hoa. Secretary : Mis G Hewitt. 23 Lawler Road. Altadale. WA 6156. The Office of The Editor Telephone: (0819330 3600. THE NAVY State Branches: Navy League of Australia Gcraldtoa: Mrs C Jones. 24 Cunningham Street. Geraldton. WA 6530 GPO Box 1719 Telephone: (08)9921 5772 Svdnev. NSW 1043 Albany: D Bray. Lot 46 Frederick Street. Glcdhow. via Albany. WA 6330. E-mail to: editofihenavy@>hotmail.com Telephone: (08)9841 6542. FEDERAL ADVISORY COUNCIL All Subscription and Membership enquiries to: F. Geoffrey Evans. OBE. VRD. Chairman The Hon Secretary. Neil Baird. Chairman Baird Publications Navy League of Australia. NSW Division Wm. Bolitho. AM. GPO Box 1719. Admiral Michael W. Hudson. AC. RAN (Rtd) Svdnev. NSW. 1043 Vice Admiral David Leach. AC CBF.. LVO. RAN (Rtd) Lachlan Pavnc. CEO Australian Shipowners' Association Advertising enquiries only to: Vice Admiral Sir Richard Peck. KBE. CB. DSC. RAN (Rtd) Mr James Rickards John Strang. Chairman Strang International Pty Ltd 0419731 371. e-mail: [email protected] Corporate Members Deadline for next edition 5 February, 2003 The Australian Shipowners' Association Hawker De Haviland Limited Computer Science of Australia Pty Ltd Strang International Pty Ltd
THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I I I-ROM I ill I RON "S MM
DEFENCE AWASH WITH INQUIRIES. more years it may take to select, design (or look overseas), to The Department of Defence and ArmeJ Forces are quite used obtain approval and funding and build the ship, aircraft or to inquiries into their activities, especially when fault is whatever, it is doubtful if cost and delivery time problems can suspected, hut it is some time since they were involved with ever be fully overcome. so many inquiries simultaneous as in the year just past. The The 'Children Overboard' affair has been dealt with at Navy, for example, has been digesting the outcome of several length by media and no further comment is necessary here, internal and external examinations of its Collins-class other than to remark that the parliamentary inquiry drew submarine project: its role in the 'Children Overboard' affair attention to the complexity of defence command and ensured publicity for months: an internal review of defence management arrangements. policy in the aftermath of the 2(X)I terrorist attacks: and a Concerning defence policy, the Government's November parliamentary committee inquiry into the nation's Maritime 2(XX) Defence White paper promised periodic reviews, a Defence Strategy now under way. In addition the sensible commitment at any lime and a necessity during a management of the Department has also been under prolonged period of global restlessness: Surprising, however, scrutiny all together a stressful period for senior Defence was the decision of the Parliament's Joint Standing personnel. Committee on Foreign Affairs. Defence and Trade With regard to the particular inquiries listed above, major (JCFAD&T) to institute a public inquiry into Australia's defence projects, not least new ships and aircraft, are almost Maritime Strategy, cornerstone of defcnce policy for the past alway s the cause of problems - not the carrier but equipment 25 years: Further reference to this inquiry is made elsewhere which is to be fitted into the hull or frame and is under in this issue of THE NAVY. constant development. As the armed forces naturally want the The internal inquiry' ordered by the Defence Minister is latest equipment the financial and completion aspects of however timely. contracts are inevitably thrown into disarray. During the 10 or Geoff Evans
1 ROM ()l R RE \1)ERS
If the US can do it, why can't we? visitors going through our military museums, there is no doubt of this fact. The Victory class corvette RSS VALIANT. The Victory class arc very well armed ships and have a top speed of 3Skts. (Brian Morrison. Warships & Marine Dear Editor There is also the U-571 factor. The movie U-571 caused Corps Museum. Franklin. Tas) For the past twenty years since the USN allowed a film crew an uproar from its creation of a fantasy military mission. For access to the aircraft carrier USS NIMITZ (CVN-68) for the The navy of the Republic of Singapore (RSN) is one of South East Asia's most interesting and dynamic. From humble Australians the movie was an insult with the real U-571 sunk movie. The Final Countdown. Hollywood and the United by 461 Sqn RAAF in 1944. Yet this movie was made and beginnings following independence in 1963, the RSN has grown to a position of control over one of the world's most States Military have collaborated on many movie projects. even with a fantasy story scored well at the box office. important waterways. Some movies of note that have had Military' assistance Movies such as U-571 put forward the belief that America include Saving Private Ryan. Top Gun. The Hunt For Red Today, the RSN is capable of exerting 'Sea Control' over a frigate-sized opponent. A recent upgrade to these corvettes won the war single handed, which was never the case. October and Black Hawk Down. their area of immediate interest and sea denial much further has seen a substantial improvement in their self-defence When Hollywood puts out a great military movie, the This level of co-operation between both the military and away. With the introduction into Singapore service of four ex- capabilities, with the addition twin vertical launch octuple world watches. Saving Private Ryan was a watershed event Hollywood is such that the US Defense Department has an Swedish Navy submarines and the addition of new stealth Barak surface to air missile launchers to augment the single for both the American Film Industry and the American public. office that both gives permission and then co-ordinates all frigates on order from France the RSN will soon be in a 76-mm dual-purpose super rapid gun and passive defence It showed Americans at their finest at a turning point in film activity that uses US military assets, even to the point of position to exert 'Sea Dominance' on. over and under the measures. history. With a no holds barred approach the movie showed assigning advisers to assist in the filming. waters surrounding the Singapore Strait. the horrors of war. It is now the standard to which all military The Israeli Barak is designed to be a relatively low-cost Sometimes the Department of Defense says no. as movies are now judged. Such is the mix of capabilities that the RSN is integrating point defence missile system to protect ships against both happened for both Crimson Tide and the sci-fi movie that, with the exception of the Japanese Maritime Self manned aircraft and anti-ship missiles and consequently has a Independence Day. due to items or storylines that were found We as a nation have got nothing to be ashamed of! Defence Force with their Aegis destroyers and fleets of quick reaction time, typically 3 seconds including 0.6 seconds to be against the Military's interest. When they say yes. the Australian Military history is just as interesting and poignant modern destroyers and submarines, and the overwhelming to turn over. The fire-control system is based upon the Elta results can be very impressive, putting forward a positive as those overseas. We have a world-class film industry here firepower of the United States Navy, the RSN is on track to EL/M-2221GM I/J- and K-band (X-Ka band) monopulsc image of the US Military to the movie going public. that can do the job (particularly evident with movies such as become the most powerful navy in the region. coherent tracking and illumination radar which is In Australia, there have been many TV mini-series loosely The Matrix and Star Wars being made in Australia). The supplemented, on the right-hand side, by a Rafael thermal based on the Australian Military, the last one being Changi on question is how do we get the ball rolling? How do we get the imager. It features a dish antenna with an elevation of -25 to the ABC. There has not been a major film made about the Australian Film industry interested? Once this question is The RSN of Today +85°. Search, acquisition and tracking may be conducted in ADF since The Light Horsemen in the late !980's. The last answered the rest can be dealt with. TV series on our military was the ABC series Patrol Boat. It is time for the Australian Department of Defence to start Today's RSN is based around a core of missile armed fast either I/J (8 to 20 GHz) or K (20 to 40 GHz) bands and it can It is not like there arc no great stories out there. Our generating interest beyond that of issuing press releases on patrol boats. These vessels are ideal for operations in and track the target or targets while controlling two missiles. The military history has everything from great stands (Elands current operations. Australia's Defence Public Affairs people around the intensely crowded littoral waters of the Singapore system may also be used for controlling guns, possibly with River in the Boar War. Long Tan during Vietnam) through to should start being enthusiastic about their role and begin and Malacca Straits. Small, fast and easily able to disappear the assistance of a separate ballistic computer. discovering how it can assist the Australian Film Industry, dangerous missions (HMAS MURCHISON during the amongst the numerous islands, ferries, fishing boats and Upon acquisition of the target/targets by the ship's search and if possible, generate interest with Movie Studios into Korean War) to heroes (Teddy Sheean. John Collins). They merchant ships that ply these waters, they are also possessed radar, the fire-control radar designates the targets. The system getting our military history into the public domain. are just as good as stories from overseas and they show of potency far outweighing their size. automatically calculates the level of threat from each target, But until that happens, lamentably. Australia's children Australians at their finest in some of our darkest hours. The largest and most capable of Singapore's fleet are the allocates a missile or missiles and automatically launches will continue to see the military history of other nations, The question is: Why can't we promote our military six Victory class corvettes. Displacing 600 tonnes, they are them. In the anti-ship missile role the Barak leaves the namely America, in Australia's Cinemas. history through the Australian Film industry? We know that armed with up to eight Harpoon anti-ship missiles, each with launcher and is turned over towards the target by the thrust Ian Johnson people are interested in our military with the ever growing range of 130kms and more than capable of seriously damaging vector control system at the base of the missile which is resurgence of Anzac Day and the increasing numbers of WA
16 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I 4 the first one. then four submarines of the Sjoormen class. All Singapore's territorial waters, or which control the entrance to had seen service with the Royal Swedish Navy in the shallow the Singapore Strait. In fact one of the Endurance class and cold waters of the Baltic. These submarines. 25 years old completed the RSN's first circumnavigation of the globe, in at the time, were to be decommissioned as part of reductions 2000. However, one must really question why a small island in the Swedish submarine service. Singapore evaluated them nation needs four very large amphibious assault ships at all and found them to be excellent entry level technology into when helicopters can transport troops around its territory with submarine operations. Their design, optimised for shallow ease? Some have speculated that the ships are there to protect water operations in the Baltic, is ideally suited for operations Singapore interests cither up the Malay peninsular or further in the waters of the Singapore Strait and the surrounding from home. region. However, the water temperature is much higher in the All in all. the RSN has developed into a capable navy, tropics meaning more corrosion and a loss of underwater emerging from its brown-water status to a green-water force, endurance due to battery overheating. capable of controlling its direct area of operational interest, Following extensive reconditioning, which involved the which just happens to be one of the most busy and influential replacement of most of the submarines pipping, wiring and the One of Singapore's two Challenger class diesel-electric class submarines waterways in the world. In the years to come, the RSN will fitting of air conditioning, two of the four boats are now in heading to sea. Singapore owns two more Challenger class (former Swedish extend this capability. operation in Singapore, with the remaining two completing Sjoormen class) submarines which arc still in the Baltic undergoing trials A Sea Wolf class missile armed attack boat The Sea Wolf are armed with (Brian Morrison. Warships & Marine Corps Museum. Franklin. Tas) both Harpoon and Gabriel ASMs as well as a 57mm rapid fire gun and a crew-training duties in the Baltic and due to arrive in Simbad twin launcher for Misiral IH homing anti-aircraft missiles. Singapore in 2003. The submarines are armed with four to their operating areas. The RSN has rightly concluded that 533mm bow tubes and carry up to 10 FFV 613 anti-surface any indiscriminate mining campaign in the Strait would automatically discarded, presumably by explosive bolts, upon wire guided passive homing torpedos with a range of I5kms endanger the traffic of so many nations that an international completion of launch. The missile is acquired and controlled at 45kts using a 250kg warhead. The subs also have two anti-mining operation would commence to sweep the waters by the fire-control radar which then guides it towards the 400mm torpedo tubes for four FFV Type 431 anti-submarine clean and ensure continued access by shipping. target. The missile is capable of engaging targets 2 m above active/passive wire guided torpedoes with a range of 2()kms at the sea and can manoeuvre at 25 g. It travels at Mach 2 and The mine hunter force is equipped to deal with the most 25kts and using a 45kg shaped charge warhead, or an his a range of 12kms modern mines, being equipped with high definition sonars, equivalent war load of mines. The four boats are named remotely operated mine disposal vehicles, and facilities to The Victory class arc also fitted with two triple 324mm CHALLENGER. CENTURION. CONQUEROR and support teams of divers. The Bedok class is also fitted to lay ASW (Anti-Submarine Warfare! torpedo tubes for six Italian CHIEFTAIN are a potent weapon in the republic's maritime mines if nccessary. The cx-RN SIR LANCELOT now in her Singapore colours as RSS Whitehead A 244s anti-submarine active/passive homing arsenal. Despite their age. they are quiet, manoeuvrable and To support Singapore's claims to some of the outlying PERSEVERANCE (Bnan Morrison. Warships & Marine Corps Museum. torpedos w ith a range of 7kms. will be extraordinarily hard to detect in the notoriously Franklin. Tas) islands, the RSN operates an amphibious force comprising Backing up the Victory class are six 260 tonne Sea Wolf difficult anti-submarine environment of the tropics, where one ex-Royal Navy Landing Ship Logistic and four Endurance Harpoon/Gabriel I armed missile attack craft, and 12 500 shallow water, noisy acoustic environment, varying salinity class LST (Landing Ship Tank). Commissioned into RSN The RSN of Tomorrow tonne Fearless patrol craft, half of which are fitted out for and complex temperature gradients combine to work to the service as PERSEVERANCE in 1994 the former Falklands ASW operations. The Sea Wolf are armed with four Harpoon submarine's advantage. Even the most capable anti- For many years it has been apparent that the RSN was War veteran SIR LANCELOT can lift a maximum of 560 ASMs and four Israeli Gabriel I ASMs with a range of 20km submarine force will struggle to locate the Challenger class seeking a larger more capable vessel to supplement their troops and 16 MBTs (Main Battle Tanks), and has two at Mach .7 and guided by either optical or radar guidance subs in these difficult waters. current fleet of attack craft and corvettes. Most observers platforms for operating helicopters. While PERSEVERANCE (semi-active homing). The Sea Wolf and fearless are also expected a larger OPV/corvette design of betw een 1000 and The RSN is aware that a mining campaign conducted in can deliver her cargo by beaching and unloading via bow fitted w ith the Matra Simbad twin launcher for Mistral IR anti- 1500 tonnes, probably incorporating some measure of stealth the wateis of the Singapore and Malacca Straits could have a doors, this is rarely carried out in practice. aircraft missiles, which have a range of 4kms. technology. In fact Singapore stunned the naval world with dev astating impact on both the economy of the island state, The Fearless class are fitted with a 76mm super rapid gun The four Endurance class LST's were designed and built in the announcement that it would buy six La Fayette-derived and on the RSN's movements. To this end they have w hich can fire 120 rpm to I6kms. As mentioned, half of the Singapore, and provide a useful capability with each capable stealth frigates from France. commissioned four Swedish designed Landsort class class are also fitted for ASW operations and employ a of lifting 350 troops. 18 MBT's and 20 other vehicles. These Displacing more than 3200 tonnes, the Singapore, or Delta minehunters. The first. BEDOK (which the class was also Thomson Sintra TSM 2362 Gudgeon hull-mounted active can be delivered through four small landing craft earned in version of the popular frigates will be armed with a OTO named), was built in Sweden with the last three being built in attack medium frequency sonar. One of the ships is also fitted davits, four larger landing craft in the ship's well dock or via Melera 76-mm super rapid gun. and a mix of anti-aircraft and Singapore. While not sufficient to keep the entire Singapore with a towed sonar array. The ASW ships have two triple the two embarked Puma helicopters. Bow and stern doors are anti-ship missiles. While exact armaments are still uncertain, Strait clear of mines, they are sufficient to ensure RSN access 324mm torpedo tubes for the Italian Whitehead A244s also Fitted which allows a mate up with the RSN's larger it is known that they will be armed with the European anti- active/passive torpedo. landing craft for transport of vehicles to the shore. It has a aircraft ASTER missile system. The first ship of this "lass will well dock which can flood down to enable landing craft to Operating close to their bases, and under friendly air cover, be completed in France and arrive in Singapore in 2005, while drive in and out of the ship. The acquisition of these four these vessels could use Singapore's crowded waters to full ships 2 and 3 will commence construction at the same time in vessels gives the RSN the capability to land and support advantage, mingling with neutral traffic and darting out to Singapore. All are scheduled to be in service by 2009. troops on any of the numerous islands which surround deliver missile attacks against their taigets or to search and With the capability to operate a medium sized helicopter destroy transiting submarines. They would have the 'Home for over the horizon surveillance and targeting, far superior Ground' advantage of airborne and shore based radar sea keeping capabilities than their predecessors and a reduced surveillance. Realistic exercises that emphasise these tactics IR. acoustic and electronic signature, the six as yet unnamed regularly feature in the RSN's training schedule. frigates will dramatically bolster the Republic's Navy. Taken together with the Republic's Grumman E-2 Recent announcements of the features of the six frigates Hawkeye AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning & Control) reveals that the 110 metre frigates differ in a number of ways aircraft, and A-4 Skyhawk and F-16 Falcon attack aircraft, from the base line La Fayette class, as operated by France. these surface assets have the capability to render the waters in Taiwan and Saudi Arabia. and surrounding the Singapore Strait extremely dangerous to The hull design is in most respects similar to the current La opponents. These however are not the only forces that an Fayette hull design, but the superstructure is substantially aggressive maritime force would have to deal with, for further The Fearless class patrol vessel RSS JUSTICE. JUSTICE is armed with a different. The superstructure has been reduced and danger lurks beneath the waves. 76mm super rapid gun and a Simbad twin launchcr for Mistral anti-aircraft incorpoiates further shaping to reduce the radar signature of missiles. There arc 12 fearless class patrol vessels in the RSN order of Singapore took the decision to acquire a submarine force The Bcdok class minchuntcr RSS KALLANG. These minehunters cannot the ship, relative to the baseline ships. Part of the change will battle with six of them having an ASW specialty. (Brian Morrison. Warships only search for and destroy mines but also lay mines too. (Brian Morrison. in the early I990*s. with the acquisition announced in 1995 of & Marine Corps Museum. Franklin. Tas) Warships & Marine Corps Museum. Franklin. Tas) have been driven by the RSN's choice of weapons and 16 4 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I sensors, and others by growing experience in the art of radar reduction. The ships will be highly automated and have a crew of only 60. An as yet the Singaporeans have not specified an anti-ship missile but may possibly retain Harpoon to maintain commonality with the rest of the fleet. To support over the horizon and terminal guidance for the anti-ship missiles, the frigates will be equipped to operate a Seahawk/NH-90 sized helicopter. Depending on its fit out. this helicopter could also be capable of deploying anti-subinarine sensors and weapons, in concert with the frigates own low-frequency towed sonar array. A computer generated drawing of the RSN's newest ship, the Delta class The ships will also be fitted w ith a comprehensive combat frigate. The Delia is designed with better signature reduction measures than system and secure communications to enable it to coordinate the French La Fayette frigate from which it is based on. (DCN) the operations of the RSN's missile corvettes and fast attack the Challenger class submarines may provide the Swedes with craft. a small lead in the choice of a new submarine, the French have Much of the design of the frigate suggests that it may also considerable expertise in foreign sales, and it must not be be destined for "out of area" operations, away from the forgotten that more Gentian submarines have been built and Singapore and Malacca Straits. In particular the fitting of a operated by more navies worldwide than any other nations. EDO low frequency towed sonar array, which would be A timeframe for the selection and construction of the new difficult to operate in the shallow waters of the Strait, but submarines has not been announced however, the age of the which would be useful for supporting the escort of other ships Challenger class will to some extent force the RSN's hand. in the open ocean. Moat likely an announcement of the search for a replacement 'Far surpassing Malaysia's Lekiu frigates, and emphasising A'ill be made within the next 12 months, and a decision within the obsolescence of much of the Indonesian. Philippines and two years after that, by which lime the youngest of the Thai navies, it will be interesting to see what responses the Challenger class will be approaching 30 years in service. By Paul Johnston other ASEAN navies will announce to try and match the The acquisition of the Challenger class, and the expected RSN's new frigates. A mini-arms race may develop, as each announcement of their replacements has already stirred other tries to counter the others capabilities. South East Asian states to consider the acquisition of The RAN's first Seasprite conducting flight trials in the US. The RAN SH-2G< Al Seasprite has been fitted with two GE T-700 engines to provide some The operations of the Challenger class submarines have submarine arms (Thailand), or the revitalisation of their commonality with the RAN's existing Scahawk fleet. The new engines also give the rebuilt helicopter a near single engine performance envelope. (Kaman > brought home the many capabilities that an efficient currently moribund sub forces (Indonesia), to match the Paul Johnston takes a look back at the Seasprite helicopter acquisition for the RAN/RNZN and provides a snapshot on submarine force can offer. Covert surveillance, anti-shipping Singapore capability. Malaysia has already announced the where the project is today. strikes, special operations and mine-laying operations are just purchase of two of the French/Spanish Scorpene class a few of the capabilities available to the RSN. despite the submarines (see THE NAVY Vol 64. No.4. p 22) In 1997. Australia embarked upon Project SEA 1411 (the and OPVs given their Tier 27"Fitted For But Not With" limitations of the boats due to their age. Seasprite Helicopter). At the same time New Zealand also patrol functions as outlined in the 'Dibb Review' and 1987 The Challenger class are all more than 25 years old. and it embarked on a similar program known as the Maritime Defence White Paper. has always been Singapore policy that these boats were to Conclusion Helicopter Project. The 11 RAN Seasprites were remanufactured from ex- develop the required submarine operations expertise before The RSN is the most capable navy in South East Asia. Its For Australia, the project meant the acquisition of 11 USN SH-2F models and have in the rebuilding process been selecting a modern class of submarines to replace them. potent mix of missile corvettes and submarines, in concert rebuilt Kaman Aerospace International SH-2G(A) Super fitted with two GE T-700 engines, which will enable some The most likely candidates are the German U 212 class, with the surveillance and strike aircraft of the RSAF. can Srasprite Helicopters primarily for use on the Anzac class commonality with the Seahawks already operated by the the New Viking class of submarines being designed for the control the aters surrounding Singapore, and allow it to exert frigates, with a simulator and support facilities. Further RAN. Swedish and Norwegian navies, and the French/Spanish control over the length of the Singapore Strait, one of the purchases of up to nine more Seasprites were to occur for the The USN ceased using the Kaman Seasprite in 2001 with Scorpene class. All are small, manoeuvrable and fast for world's most vital waterways, and further a field. then proposed joint construction project with Malaysia (a the last airframe being operated by the National Guard which Corvette sized Off Shore Patrol Vessel or OPV). The OPVs conventional submarines. Fitted w ith a modern command and The addition of the six stealth frigates, and the anticipated has since surrendered for a static display in an air museum. were to replace the current fleet of Fremantle class patrol control systems, and state of the art sensors and weapons, they replacements for the Challenger class submarines, will allow The Australian side of the project soon began to run into boats. Later, under a connected project called SEA 1414. the would be potent additions to the RSN's arsenal. While use of the RSN lo dominate the waters of its direct interest, and to problems. One contributing factor was that all of the airframes RAN acquired the Kronsberg Defense Penguin MK 2 MOD 7 project that power into surrounding seas. that they were attempting to remanufacture back to 'zero Anti-Ship Missile as one part of the offensive armament of the The Delta class frigates will also provide the RSN with the hours' had to be recovered from deep storage in the Arizonian Seasprite. Lightweight torpedoes were to be later acquired capability to deploy naval power further from home waters, desert from the famous 'boi.e yard' at Davis-Monthan Air under a different project designation although the G model of allowing participation in United Nation, sanctioned maritime Force Base before they could be re-worked to 'zero' flight the Seasprite is already cleared to operate the MK 44.46 & 50 operations such as the Multi-National Interception Force hours. Other concerns were that this aircraft usually had a torpedoes and is able to use a wide range of European ASW enforcing sanctions against Iraq. crew of three, yet the RAN had decided to modify the design weapons as well. One key weakness in the Singapore naval order of battle is of the Seasprite considerably and only have a flight and the lack of support ships. Replenishment vessels would allow The purpose of acquiring a platform such as the Kaman navigation crew of two. The RAN believed that enhanced the RSN to extend into the South China Sea and to the Seasprite was to provide a less expensive capability to that technologies would reduce the need for crew numbers and entrance of the Malacca strait. It is more than likely that a offered by the Sikorsky S-70B-2 Seahawks already in RAN more advanced weapons and sensor suites could be installed Singapore acquisition of such replenishment ships would service, and to supplement some of the capabilities provided and applied. It was also argued (hat mos> of the sensors were spark unrest in the navies of the region as this would be the by the ageing Westland MK 50A Sea Kings. In particular, the obsolete having been designed to fight a Cold War adversary key indicator of Singapore expansion. Seasprite was to provide the ability to embark a common and had last seen active service in the Gulf War in 1991. The helicopter in the Anzac frigate and OPV in a time of crisis and The RSN Endurance class LST RSS RESOLUTION. Each of (he four With tensions periodically rising and falling between the removal of these obsolete systems and new leaps and bounds to provide an over-the-horizon reconnaissance and targeting Endurance class LSTs can carry 350 troops. 18 MBTs. 20 other vehicles, nations of the region, the powerful RSN will still provide the in technology meant that replacement systems would be four small landing craft on davits, four larger landing --raft in a well deck and ability for the ship. It was to provide a real-time data link back rulers of their tiny nation state with a versatile and potent arm smaller and lighter increasing internal space and contributing two Super Puma helicopters. A very impressive land force expeditionary to the ship and the ability to hunt and attack surface targets capability for a small island country. (Brian Momson. Warships & Marine in support of diplomacy. to the installation of additional capabilities and aircraft Corps Museum. Franklin. Tas) thereby significantly increasing the capability of the Anzacs endurance. This has recently been demonstrated in the RAAF
16 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I 7 Australian Defence Material Organisation had not written low-end naval export market. The deal also dashed penalty clauses into the contract thus allowing the software Eurocopter's hopes of achieving a real breakthrough in the designer to succeed with this action. shipborne helicopter market in the Asia Pacific Rim. where its Panther/Dauphin and Cougar/Super Puma have failed lo find it is also speculated that Litton used deficiencies in the customers. Though it is important to note that Eurocopter has contract conditions to successfully abandon its commitment to achieved some success with the sale of its Tiger Armed the RAN Seasprite Project. Reconnaissance Helicopter to the ADF and the establishment Litton decided to walk away from the complex Seasprite of a Brisbane manufacturing and maintenance base for its software design and integration task and under the contract civilian helicopter market. The Army's Aussie Tiger with its conditions later won a legal settlement that cost Kaman S32 mainly composite construction and folding rotors will see it million. The Australian firm CSC has now been contracted for deploy on ships such as HMAS MANOORA and the task, currently, overdue by more than three years. Six of KANIMBLA in the near future. the 11 airframes have now been delivered but it is expected that they will not be to the RAN contract standard until 2005. Another dilemma remains for the Navy. When the RAN does receive working Seasprites the ships for which they were The Department of Defence is trying to redraft Kaman's partially acquired will not exist, i.e. the OPVs. Embarking the contract, despite having already paid out $960 million of the A leased SH-2F Seasprite flics over the RNZN's last 1-eandcr class frigate. fleet of Seasprites on the existing Anzac frigates, while The RNZN leased a number of older F model airframes in order to train on SI billion budget. Top Defence officials recently informed a A USN SH-2 Seasprite helicopter flying by a Spruancc class destroyer The utilising the aircraft's capabilities, provides less capability to the new type of helicopter and retain many helicopter handling skills that Senate hearing that the government was < xamining suing may have been lost while waiting for the newer aircraft after their ageing Seaspriie has been withdrawn from USN service and i\ now only in service the Anzacs' than a Seahawk could provide. The Seasprites Kaman for breach of contract and could possibly recover that Westland Wasps were taken tun of service. (RNZN) with the Navies of Australia New Zealand. Egypt and Poland (Kaman) carry an anti-surface missile, the Penguin, originally intended money however, collective wisdom indicated that we would as cover for the now defunct OPV's lack of such a weapon, but P-3C Orion upgrade lo AP-3C level which saw new still "Not end up with the helicopters and would have to start Maverick missiles. The analog cockpit is based on the Litton the Anzacs already, under SEA 1413 Phase 3. are to receive technologies and capabilities reduce ihe aircraft's mass by again". ASN-150 tactical navigation system. the Harpoon Block II anti-ship missile. The Seahawk is also approximately 500kg. Like the Collins class submarines and the AP-3C Orion New Zealand sought the Hughes AGM-65B Maverick Air cleared for Penguin use too. It should also be noted that the The collaboration synergy between the various sub aircraft in the ADF inventory, the Seasprites have run into to Surface missile to arm its Seasprites citing tactical Anzacs' helicopter hangar was designed to accommodate the contractors (Kaman. the ADF and KAN) began to wane as complex technological challenges and cost overruns. Much of considerations and because the AGM-65 was already in use larger and more capable Seahawk and that the four Anzacs pioneering work began to get costly and increasingly difficult this is linked to the unique requirements placed by the ADF w ith the now disbanded combat air arm of the RNZAF's A-4K currently in service arc operating Seahawks quite well. to manage. Much of this trail bla/ing through the interaction which specifies a variety of roles and systems from its Skyhawks. of various systems and software proved difficult and this equipment not normally offered by a single initial Kiwi Success The physical or st uctural difference between the RAN and began to contribute extensively to project overruns manufacturer's design The ADF often seeks to have an Selected by both Australia and New Zealand for service on RNZN Seasprites revolves around the cabin and tail boom. The problems with the Australia Seaspriie began in 1999. integration of cutting edge technologies from a variety of their Anzac frigates, the Seasprites chosen by each nation The installation of the new GE T 700s on the RAN rebuilt F r when Litton, a major US company tasked with designing suppliers. While this may result in an overall poo synergy of differ in abilities, systems and weapons. models means that an entire engine and transmission- software and contracted by Kaman International, abandoned contract management and compatibility, the upside is that The contract with New Zealand is for four aircraft mounting structure is required to be replaced. Other structural the project. During this time frame. Litton, received a major many of the platforms within the ADF inventory have a beginning in 2(XX). In August 1999. New Zealand announced changes included the forward fuselage and cockpit sections to US project and chose to remove key staff members from the significantly broad spectrum of capabilities. it would buy a fifth SH-2G. The Royal New Zealand Navy's accommodate the new radar and Integrated Tactical Avionics Seasprite Project to work on another newer and larger The Kaman Seasprite was chosen when the SH-2G nosed (RNZN) SH-2Gs will serve aboard their two new Anzac System or ITAS. contract. As a result. Kaman delivered seven helicopters out Westland's Super Lynx in the Australian and New Zealand frigates and older Lcander-class frigate. The RNZN views an effective maritime helicopter as an without their mission control systems. Unfortunately, the competitions, marking the end of Westland's dominance of the While awaiting the delivery of five brand new build essential addition to the fighting capability of a modern frigate Kaman Seasprites. designated SH-2G(NZ). the RNZN and because it enhances the ships ability to defend itself and other RNZAF (who will jointly operate the aircraft) will for the shipping against both surface and undersea adversaries. "A interim operate a number of leased and older Seasprites. SH- naval force without modern helicopters is vulnerable and 2F*s. This lease period has enabled the RNZN to begin becomes a liability to our regional allies. A helicopter such as familiarity operations and to maintain the skills of a shipborne the Super Seasprite increases the surveillance capability of a helicopter arm rather than have a capability lull or solidcr on frigate at least six fold." with their 32-year-old Westland Wasp's. Conclusion New Zealand's five new SH-2G(NZ)s will be equipped The USN no longer operates the Seasprite helicopter with with Telephonies APS-I43(V)3 radar. FLIR Systems AAQ-22 many airframes in long term storage, up for sale or in thermal imager and Litton Amacon LR-100 electronic support museums. The Super Seasprite is currently in service w ith the measures. The aircraft will be armed with two AGM-65 Navies of Poland and Egypt and may be soon acquired by Mexico. Morocco and Bangladesh. Egypt has recently placed an order with Kaman Aerospace International for additional airframes principally to use in the SAR role. The regional and operational challenges faced by the ADF will continue to become more complex and expensive placing enormous budgetary and technological challenges upon our nation and military. It is important that cutting edge military capabilities be acquired, supported and maintained and that management processes, contract design and delivery conditions are substantially improved. The scandal and enormous burden placed upon the Defence and the Australian taxpayer through ignorance and inexperience in acquisitions projects can no longer be tolerated. For the sake of the men A RNZN Seasprite conducting live weapon firing trials of an AGM-65 Maverick missile in the US before delivery. The RNZN opted for the TV guided and women who serve in uniform we must get our acquisition Maverick for anti-ship targets as its Skyhawks also used the missile. Unfortunately New Zealand's Skyhawks have since been decommissioned. However, the and project management on target and on time both now and An Egyptian SH-2G Seaspriie demonstrating its dunking sonar capability. up shot of this is that given the Maverick's original land attack capabilities the RNZN Seaspnte is the only naval helicopter in the region able to conduct in future ventures. strike missions of land targets. (Kaman) (Kaman) THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I USNS CHARLTON in WA undergoing maintenance The Watson class sealift ships are almost as long as a USN Nimit/ clavs aircraft canier. Notice the sue of the ship's cranes w hich enable it to olTload cither in a stream onto The helicopter deck of ihe USNS CHARLTON is bi s enough to land a landing craft or barges or onto docks without proper unloading lacilities. heavy lift CH-47 Chinook helicopter. However, the class is not fitted to suppon an embarked helic«»pter flight. It can however ferry helicopters in its From a control booth all engineering operations are run large cargo holds. through touch screen monitors, thus allowing the ship to be run w ith a very small crew. The ship's environmental controls Somalia in 1992 and several times for operations within are also located in engineering. Kuwait. When these ships sail from Diego Garcia to the The crew quarters are spacious with every crewman Persian Gulf it is seen as a clear signal that the American hav ing his own stateroom. The ship has a first class galley and Government is taking events in that area seriously. a well-stocked gym. There are rooms that can very quickly Photos by Ian Johnson and Brian Goodman become berthing for up to 90 military personnel. There is even a lift going from engineering to the bridge that can carry four The Watson Class people. Builder: National Steel and Shipbuilding Co.. USA USNS WATSON makes J turn during sea inals The eight ship Watson class sealift ships are powered h> two LM-2500 gas turbines. (MSCi CHARLTON is based at Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean Power Plant: Two GE Marine LM-2500 gas turbines: Last year THE V^Ti WA based correspondent Ian Johnson was able to tour the US Sealift Command's newest class as part of the Military Sealift Command's Maritime Pre- 64.0(X) hp (7.7 MW): 2 shafts, cp props of ship. The Watson clavs is an impressive sealift platform and one that RAN planners should not discount too quickly Posiiioning Fleet. These ships carry the equipment for both Length: 951.4 feel in their upcoming amphibious study because she mounts no weaponry. A ship such as this has the capability to the US Army and US Marine Corps, and are ready to be Beam: 106 feet transport the Australian Army 's 1st Armoured Brigade almost any where in the world. deployed at a moment's notice. The Military Sealift Command Displacement: 62.644 long tons (63.969.2 metric tonsi full is the civ ilian run arm of the USN and as its name implies it is load Last year ihe USNS CHARLTON (T-AKR-314) visited A list control system provides stability to compensate for responsible for the global military seaborne cargo and supply Cargo capacity: 393.000 sq. ft. HMAS STIRLING in WA to undergo some scheduled arrangement of the cargo. of the US military . The MSC comes under the control of the Speed: 24 knots (27.6 mph) maintenance w ith the assistance of several Western Australian Interior ramps between decks ease the traffic How once US Department of Transportation as part of the U.S. Ships: based companies. cargo is loaded aboard ship. CHARLTON has a slew ing stern Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) based out of USNS Watson (T-AKR 310) CHARLTON is named after Army Sgt. Cornelius H. ramp and a movable ramp that services two side ports make it Scott Air Force Base in lllinios. USNS Sisler (T-AKR 311) Charlton who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor easy to drive vehicles on and off the ship - speeding loading Although they do not generally conduct port visits, the USNS Dalil (T-AKR 312) for his heroic actions in 1951 near Chipore during the Korean and off-loading. The entire on-load and off-load process of the strategic sealift forces are a big part of the Military Sealift USNS Red Cloud (T-AKR 313) War. The ships of this class are named after Medal of Honor class can be accomplished in 96 hours or less. CHARLTON is Command and continually conduct exercises with the Navy. USNS Charlton (T-AKR 314) recipients. also equipped with two cranes that make it possible for the The last full deploy ment of the strategic sealift forces was USNS Watkins (T-AKR 315) CHARLTON is one of 20 large, medium-speed roll- ship to unload almost anywhere and away from docking during Operation Desert Shielil/Storm when MSC moved USNS Pomerox (T-AKR 316) on/roll-off ships that have joined the Military Sealift facilities. The ships provide self sustaining roll-on/roll-off over 1.7 million tons of military cargo and over 10.000 USNS Sodennan (T-AKR 317) Command (MSC) fleet since 2002. CHARLTON was (RO-RO) capability, and lift-on/lift-off capability. The ship is container loads of supplies a month to Saudi Arabia as part of Crew: 26 civilian crew (up to 45): up to 50 active duty delivered to the USN in May 2(XX) from National Steel and optimised for roll-on/ml I-off operations with all RO-RO decks the operation to defend Saudi Arabia and liberate Kuwait. military Shipbuilding Company in San Diego who built the ship. Each fixed and a combination of fixed and hinged RO-RO ramps. There are three pre-positioning squadrons of MSC. which are ship of the class is crewed by 30 civilians employed by The ship is equipped for the follow ing operations: roll-on/roll- based in the Atlantic (1st squadron). Guam (2nd squadron) Maersk Shipping on contract to MSC. Up to 50 military cargo off and lift-on/lift-off for transport vehicles and transport and Diego Garcia (3rd squadron) who were activated for supervisors and be embarked to maintain the equipment the containers, for cargo transfer onto a pier and in-strcam up to Operation Desert Shield Storm. Operation Restore Hope oft ship may carry . Sea Slate 3. The ship is also equipped for lift-on/lift-off onto At 950 feet < 290m> long CHARLTON is nearly the size of transport lighterage, i.e. flat-bottomed cargo-transporting a Nimitz class aircraft carrier and can carry over 40,(XX) tons barges. of military equipment, or 2.280 Holden Commodore station The class has a large helicopter landing pad forw ard of the wagons. Weighing over 64.000 tons fully loaded, the bridge large enough to land a CH-47 Chinook but the ship is CHARLTON can sail up to a speed of 24 knots. not currently equipped to either deploy or maintain a The ship's huge, six-deck interior has a cargo carrying helicopter detachment for protracted periods. capacity of approximately 380.(XX) square feet - equivalent to The Watson class has seven engineers to run the two eight football fields. Capable of carrying an entire U.S. Army LM-2500 gas turbine engines that power the ship. Each gas armour or air assault battalion, the ship's decks have ample turbine has an output of 32.000bhp. There arc two shafts w ith space for lashing down helicopters, tanks, trucks and other 24ft controllable pitch propellers providing 95rpm at full large vehicles, including 900 plus associated battalion power. The ship's total service generating capability is The USNS WATKINS. another of the Watson class sealift ships One ship support vehicles. The cargo decks arc a controlled !2l.500kW and the emergency generating capacity is such as this has enough cargo capacity to cam the Australian Army's 1st environment: everything from the air temperature to the 2,000kW. The ship is equipped with bow thruster units. Armoured Brigade anywhere in ihe world at 24kts. Negating the need to humidity is controlled to ensure the cargo is kept in good The design speed, set at 90<£ of the maximum cruise rating relv on leased aircraft or foreign owned merchant ships. And although not condition for use at any time. The cargo holds are also The stem ramp of the roll-on-roll-off Watson class sea lift ship USNS an amphibious assault ship per se it is understood thai the Australian Arm) and at design draft of 34ft. is 24 knots. The range at the design has given up the notion of opp»»sed D-Dav style beach landings anv way equipped with foam fire fighting and de-watering systems. CHARLTON. The Watson class can he unloaded from full capacitv in under speed of 24 knots and at design draft of 34ft is 13.800 miles. 96 hours. making such a large capacitv sealift ship an attractive option (MSC)
in VOL 65 NO. I THK NAVY THK NAVY VOt. 65 NO. I II generated by the force that have the potential to impact on the civil infrastructure require accounting and isolation. Most Australia's Maritime importantly, bandwidth is itself a scarce commodity which requires careful administration. Intelligence Doctrine Part 7 Intelligence is vital to maritime operations to give the level of information about the adversary and the operating environment required to ensure the success of the mission and the security of the operation. The development, maintenance and communication of intelligence assessments at the strategic and operational levels arc essential for advising commanders of the capability and intentions of adversary forces and other factors affecting the conduct of the operation. At sea, intelligence reporting from strategic and operational assessment agencies, together with combat information and Land forces can make significant contributions to the conduct of maritime intelligence from multiple sources, when processed by operations. In addition lo providing conventional and special forces to embarked organic staff contributes to overall force interdict enemy naval forces by strike, they can seize and protect naval operating bases and control areas of land adjacent lo choke points and focal effectiveness and protection. areas. (Aust Army) TASK ORGANISATIONS THE CONSTITUENTS OF MARITIME The maritime forces available to the ADF represent, within certain limits, a highly effective balance of capabilities. The COMBAT FORCES capabilities of individual platforms are not merely The common operating picture that maritime forces work complementary to those of other units but become from is known as the wide urea picture. This is generally considerably more effective in combination that they are in organised by a shore headquarters with real time connections isolation. Because of this, maritime forces are generally into a variety of intelligence systems and wide area operated in task organisations. A task organisation is a surveillance systems such as JORN (Jindalce Over the hierarchy of units. It is based on the Task Force, which is HMAS CANBERRA in the Persian Gulf with a Sea King over the how aNnit to lower supplies and a Seahawk on the helicopter pad aft. The RANs FFGs now make up the core at sea surface combatant lighting force. Their embarked helicopters also add greatly to the RAN's capabilities. (RAN) Horizon Radar). The generated picture is up to dale, but not divided and sub-divided into subordinate components which real time. Seaborne forces can and do contribute to this w ide are called Task Groups (TG). Task Units
THE NAVY M VOL 65 NO I VOL 65 NO I Afloat Support The sensors and combat data systems fitted within our Undersea Warfare areas that require to be searched. Underway replenishment units represent vital force frigates mean that these ships are capable of developing and Undersea warfare falls into two main categories, anti- Mines can be cheap and simple enough to be employed by multipliers, particularly for Australia where practically ever)' maintaining a local recognised air picture, vital for the submarine operations and mine warfare. Anti-submarine the smallest powers or terrorist groups and represent a conceivable operation must be conducted at considerable coordination of the air battle. Many other units can contribute operations are complex, demanding and time consuming, formidable challenge for maritime powers. Mine warfare has considerable potential for gaining and maintaining the distances from shore bases and which will therefore require to this, including non-organic systems and sensors. The more requiring close coordination of many assets and a very high initiative against an adversary. Preemptive sowing of even a reach. The RAN possesses one multipurpose replenishment units available, whether air - or seaborne, the more level of understanding of env ironmental conditions. The P-3C limited number of mines outside its bases or in choke points ship. SUCCESS, which is capable of transferring fuel, water comprehensive will be the recognised air picture and the more Orion aircraft are amongst the most effective assets in can prevent its ships from deploying or returning to port and and limited amounts of food, ammunition and stores. There is capable the force of achieving battlespace dominance in the searching for adversary submarines, whether by means of will force it to conduct time consuming and painstaking mine also one fleet tanker. WESTRALIA. which is designed air battle. AEW&C aircraft and major surface combatants are their radar and infrared systems, or by monitoring the counter measures (MCM). Mine warfare is subject to some primarily for the transfer of fuel and water only, although it especially effective when operating in combination. The sonobuoys they drop into the sea to detect submarine restrictions under international law. nevertheless, it has been can also provide small quantities of food and stores. Resupply aircraft w ill have a much w ider radar horizon than that of the generated noise. Some sonobuoys can also be used actively, employed covertly on at least one occasion as a form of of fuel is important not only for the endurance of the ships ships, while the latter can carry many more missiles than all generating a sound signal to echo range on an underwater maritime terrorism by a nation-state. themselves, but for their organic helicopters. Afloat support but the largest formations of fighter aircraft. This synergy target. The primary weapon of maritime patrol aircraft will be ships therefore earn separate supplies of both marine and creates considerable offensive capability. lightweight torpedoes specially designed for use against Mine countermeasures are most effective when forces aviation fuel. The CAP will generally function as an outer element of a submarine targets. Carefully positioned submarines also have possess a high degree of understanding of the environment, Marine Science layered defence. Closer in. the missile and gun systems of the considerable ability to detect adversary submarines by preferably in the form of route and local bottom surveys which can minimise the time taken to detect and identify mines. Because knowledge of the maritime environment is a ital frigates will provide further layers of hard kill against an listening for their noise on towed sonar arrays. Similar MCM operations w ill be limited to the minimum area required element for success across the spectrum of maritime incoming raid of aircraft or missiles. An SM-I missile devices are being fitted to a number of the RAN's surface to be made safe to allow operations to resume or shipping operations, the Navy possesses hydrographic units which also equipped unit will usually have between 30 and 40 missiles combatants, which also have active hull mounted sonar and movements to continue and they will be conducted so as to conduct data collection and research in other areas. The Navy onboard. Although the SM-I system is ageing, units so fitted carry light weight torpedoes. These systems are primarily achieve the greatest possible threat reduction in the shortest is the national authority charged with carrying out the work possess a substantial local area defence capability by which intended for self-defence, but may be employed to cover and possible time. required to meet Australia's international commitments w ithin their missiles can be used to protect more than one other ship protect other units when the frigates or destroyers are the Australian Area of Charting Responsibility. This is one of in company. This is an important capability over the point escorting high value or mission essential units such as the largest in the world. Hydrographic vessels are required defence systems such as the Sea Sparrow missile and the amphibious forces. In these circumstances, layered defence INTEROPERABILITY to conduct offshore, coastal and inshore work and the RAN's Phalanx Close In Weapon System, both of which are primarily will probably be the most effective way to ensure that such As discussed in Chapter One. sharing the same seas. force has been developed to ensure that all these areas intended to protect only the ship on which they are carried. units are successfully protected. Seahawk helicopters possess Navies frequently interact with one another and are at ease are covered. The frigates also possess soft kill capabilities in the form of a variety of sensors and are also able to deploy sonobuoys and with the issues involved in international operations. In addition to the larger hydrographic vessels MELVILLE electronic decoys, such as the Australian developed Nulka drop light weight torpedoes. They will generally be used by Nevertheless, interoperability cannot be assumed and requires and LEEUWIN. there are four survey motor launches and the hovering rocket, and other systems that aim to divert missiles the frigates to investigate and engage an underwater contact substantial and sustained effort to achieve common doctrine, Laser Airborne Depth Sounder (LADS) system. More work is from their intended targets. Helicopters and other units can while the surface ships remain out of torpedo range. Both common procedures and common communications. The contribute to these soft kill defences in a number of ways. Seasprite and Sea King helicopters can be used as lightweight conducted by survey motor boats and shore parties deployed greater the commonality in equipment and methods achieved, Electronic warfare. Optronics, and other systems will have an torpedo carriers. Defensive minefields are a very useful tool to from the hydrographic vessels and other teams are often the less duplication of resources and the fewer delays there increasingly important role in sifting the air picture from an complicate the task of adversary submarines because they can detached to areas such as the Antarctic to conduct surveys will be in achieving operational results when nations come increasingly cluttered and complex electromagnetic when required. Other units, including combatant forces, have a considerable deterrent effect, as well as reducing the together in contingencies. Formal alliances are the primary environment. regularly collect oceanographic information, w hich is collated mechanism for achieving In high threat conditions. Amphibious units and support by the Australian Oceanographic Data Centre (AODC). interoperability, but other ships will also be fitted with a range of defensive systems, approaches are possible both hard and soft kill. These may include the employment of PRIMARY MARITIME WARFARE through port visits, passage detachments of land forces equipped with shoulder fired exercises and other AREAS missiles. In a littoral situation, every effort will be made to co- cooperative activities. ordinate air defence with the ground based air defence They can range from Air Warfare prov ided by land forces. regular and highly The RAN does not possess aircraft carriers and thus has no sophisticated multinational capability to deploy organic fixed wing aircraft. This means exercises to exchange that the ADF must not only always plan for maritime air Surface Warfare postings and information The ADF possesses a wide range of assets to conduct warfare on a joint basis but its naval forces must also ensure exchange agreements. One operations against adversary surface forces. The heavyweight that they possess the capacity to defend themselves in the multilateral example of co- absence of fixed wing air. The provision of air cover for torpedoes of the Collins class represent a formidable threat to operation is the Western seaborne forces by land based aircraft is a highly demanding the largest surface vessels. In addition to the attacks which can Pacific Naval Symposium task that becomes progressively more difficult as the range be conducted by fixed wing aircraft, such as the F-111 and the (WPNS). which brings between the air base and the theatre of operations increases P-3C Orion, in the Maritime Strike role, with anti-ship together regional Navies to and which has to be balanced against other tasking. Combat missiles, or with laser guided weapons, submarines, surface discuss matters of mutual Air Patrols (CAPI will be provided by the RAAF's F/A-18 combatants and helicopters are all capable of deploying anti- interest. Amongst the fighters or. under certain conditions, by the F-111 as Active Air ship missiles. The difficulties of target identification and products of the WPNS is Defence. This will be one part of the Counter Air operation targeting, particularly in crowded or littoral environments the Code for Unalerted undertaken by the Air Component of the Joint force, which mean that short notice engagements will often be inevitable. Encounters at Sea (CUES), may also include Offensive Counter Air activities to reduce the This increases the importance of organic capabilities. These a code of practice for naval adversary's capacity to control the air. The endurance of F/A- include the Penguin missile which will be carried in the units encountering each 18 CAP on task can be extended by the provision of air-to-air Seasprite helicopter and the Harpoon missiles which are other unexpectedly, which refuelling. Their operations will be controlled either by air already installed in the Adelaide class guided missile frigates provides guidance on intercept controllers (AICS) working in AEW&C aircraft, and which arc being fitted to the Anzac class frigates to Clearance Diving Teams assist with the manoeuvring and when these come into service, or in frigates or destroyers. Two clcarancc divers at work searching for mines with a hand held sonar, supplement their 5-inch guns. identification, and rendering safe of devices, particularly in shallow water and in pons and harbours The.r role in keeping communications. the seas open arc vital. (RAN)
16 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I 17 Flash Traffic quantum leap in maritime patrol Agency for the purchase of four Anzac was modified from, have not capability and has made the upgraded decommissioned Spruance class suffered the same problems. known as the Armidale class. Defence survivors, only five are still alive today. Orion the most advanced in the world destroyers from the USN. US sources The cracks are being repaired RAN buys Harpoon also confirm that these same four ships progressively as ships are docked for Minister Robert Hill made the ARMIDALE is also significant for today. have been offered to the Chilean Navy other routine maintenance in Australia Block II announcement to coincide with 6()th the heroic actions of Ordinary Seaman Six of the upgraded Orion aircraft commemoration ev ents of the sinking of have now been delivered to Edinburgh however, the destroyers will not be and New Zealand and involves The RAN has signed a contract with Edward 'Teddy' Sheean who. while the original HMAS ARMIDALE. from L-3 Communications Integrated available until they are officially removing the bilge keels, strengthening Boeing for the purchase of 64 Block II wounded and after "abandon ship" had Systems. The new technology will deemed 'excess defense articles'. the area where cracks have occurred to Harpoon missiles. Readers of The Navy been ordered, returned to the 20mm gun improve Australia's maritime patrol The news of Brazil's desire for the prevent further cracking and re- will know that the Harpoon Block II and strapped himself to the weapon. capability and allow the Air Force to extra ships comes at a time when the attaching the structure to the ship's hull. provides a considerable capability He destroyed a Japanese aircraft extend the life of the Orion aircraft until Brazilian Navy is suffering budget cuts. The procedure takes around two weeks enhancement for anti-ship operations in before going down with the ship, still 2015. Two dock landing ships and the aircraft to complete per ship. an archipelagic environment over the firing. A Collins class submarine is carrier SAO PAULO (A-12) are HMAS WARRAMUNGA current versions as well as prov iding the named in memory of his heroic efforts. The Maritime Patrol Group's currently in refit/repair which was to added spin off of precision standoff land The first of the RAN's Armidale Acceptance Transition and Evaluation underwent warranty repairs at have lasted only a year but to save attack. Class replacement patrol boats is to be Unit has commenced an extensive Williamstown in April/May last year Operational Test and Evaluation money this has been rescheduled to two. while repairs to HMAS STUART were The new Block II Harpoon is delivered during the second half of program to certify the aircraft in its Brazil has also had to place half its A-4 completed in May 2001 before delivery designed to operate in the littoral 2004. consistent with the Government's various roles, and to develop tactics and Skyhawk fleet into storage as a cost to the RAN. environment thiough the application of 2000 Defence White Paper procedures. This program will involve saving measure. Construction of its It is understood that Tenix and a number of new and existing commitments. The Baihurst class cor»ctte HMAS ARMIDALE exercises with other ADF assets new submarine and corvette design have Blohm+Voss are not willing to accept technologies. Its new guidance system Tenders for the new patrol boats are including the Collins Class submarines also been shelved. unconditional responsibility for the incorporates technologies from two "There has been strong community currently being evaluated by Defence. and Anzac class frigates. problems, although talks between the other existing weapons - the low-cost, support to continue the Armidale name The new fleet will replace the current concerned parties continue. Fortunately, inertial measuring unit from the JDAM and its proud links to the Royal fleet of 15 Fremantle Class Patrol Boats Prototyping and system integration some of the ships are still covered under (Joint Direct Attack Munition): and the Australian Navy." Senator Hill said. and will provide the RAN with a more of the first AP-3C was conducted at warranty, in which case Tenix will be software, mission computer, integrated "The Government has agreed to the capable, modern and reliable vessel for Greenville, Texas, with further testing at required to bear the costs of repairs. Global Positioning System (GPS)/INS. recommendation of the Chief of Navy protecting Australia's coastline. the contractor's production facility at and it is a great honour to announce the Avalon Airfield. Lara. Victoria. The and the GPS antenna and receiver from 18 the SLAM-ER (Standoff Land Attack Armidale class for the replacement integration of the mission and flight First ESSM delivered Missile Expanded Response) missile. patrol project, given the proud history AP-3C accepted systems has been a very complex task and heroic feats of the original Armidale involving substantial testing and to RAN The Block II mission computer can A fleet of upgraded AP-3C Orion corvette." analysis in both Australia and the United be fed a database of coastlines to allow aircraft with the best surface Raytheon Missile Systems has surveillance capabilities in the world States to ensure stability and robustness Four ex-USN Spruance class destroyers laid up at accurate nav igation and target'landmass ARMIDALE (I) was a Bathurst announced it has delivered of the first of the systems. Pearl Harbor. Their fate is now being decided Class corvette w ith a crew of 149. Her will now operate out of RAAF Base discrimination. Its search pattern can and they may yet see service again. So far they ESSM (Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile), Edinburgh in South Australia follow ing The first two upgraded AP-3C also be controlled by limits placed on it initial service was as an escort vessel have had a staring role in the Hollywood from an initial production batch of 255, protecting Australian coastal and an acceptance ceremony. aircraft, were delivered to RAAF by the GPS correlating landmass and blockbuster movie Pearl Harbor. (Brian to the RAN last October. Australia is the mainland to New Guinea convoys. Edinburgh in October 2001. The Morrison. Warships & Marine Corps Museum. coastline data with that detected by the Defence Minister Robert Hill said first nation to receive ESSM which will delivery enabled the Air Force to Franklin. Tas. I missile's radar. Upon finding a ship She was sunk by enemy action on I the combination of the new 'imaging' outfit the Anzac class frigates early this radar with the Electronic Support commence testing the aircraft in January target in a littoral cluttered environment December 1942 during operations off year. The ESSM radar-guided ship self- Betano. south coast of Timor. Of the 49 Measures fitted previously represents a 2002 prior to the formal Commonwealth the Harpoon Block II can attack in the defence missile has been developed and acceptance. The final aircraft is to be Cracks in Anzacs hulls same manner as the current Block 1C is being produced by a team of 18 delivered in late 2004. version used by the RAN. An added Bilge keel cracks found in the RAN's companies from 10 countries, including benefit of this Block upgrade is the As part of the operational testing and RNZN's Anzac class frigates have Australia. ability to attack land targets such as period, the AP-3C also participated in Tenix Defence and Blohm+Voss Australia was to have conducted the SAM sites, harbour facilities, runways, Exercise RIMPAC 2002 in Hawaii, working to identify the cause and first ESSM live firing but delays in the buildings etc using almost any attack where two Harpoon missiles were formulate a cure. US saw the first test shot made from the profile, i.e. high diving etc. successfully launched. During an unscheduled survey last Arleigh Burke class destroyer USS Senator Hill said the new Orion It is understood that the Anzac January cracks were found in the bilge SHOUP (DDG-86). on 24 July 02 at the aircraft was the culmination of the frigates will be the sole operator of the keel of HMAS ARUNTA. Since then Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons efforts and close working relationship Block II missile giving them the problems with cracking of bilge keel Division sea range near Point Mugu. between the Defence Materiel capability to not only strike ships welds, bilge keel plating and hull California. In what also constituted the Organisation's Maritime Patrol Systems attempting to hide in the radar clutter plating have subsequently been first firing by a USN crew, the launch Program Office, Air Force, the Defence found near coastlines but also inland observed in all other vessels of the class validated ESSM's ability to accept mid- Science and Technology Organisation targets at a range of approximately built by Tenix. course guidance updates from SHOUPs and L-3 Communications Integrated 130kms. Bilge keels are intended to reduce AEGIS Baseline 6 Phase III combat Systems and its major sub-contractors. vessel roll and direct water flow to system via the missile's S-band uplink. Arm id ale: class name mechanical stabilisers nounted on the This enabled timely and accurate Spruance class hull. The cracking apptars to be where information to be sent to the missile to for RAN's new patrol the bilge keels attach to the hull. destroyers for Brazil? allow it to compensate for the incoming boats It is understood that the other target executing low altitude, high- Brazil has made an application to the MEKO 200 users (Greece. Portugal and speed evasive manoeuvres. In this case, Four of the si* AP-3Cs that have been delivered lo the RAAF. The modifications to the RAAF's The RAN's new patrol boats will be US Defense Security Cooperation Turkey), the design from which the Orions make them one of the best maritime patrol aircraft in the world. (RAAFl the launch resulted in the ESSM's 16 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I Systems of the UK. Blohm+Voss of The exhaust system is currently being Germany. Singapore Technologies redesigned involving the use of titanium Marine. Tenix Defence Australia. alloys, a new ducting and cooling Vosper Thornycroft (UK) and DSA system, and a new flap and control (DSA being a partnership between the design. Australian company ADI and Damen This will however, not solve a more Shipyards and Scheldc Naval structural problem with the exhaust Shipbuilding. both from the fumes Conning around the ship's dock Netherlands). and bridge w ing areas at low speeds and or in low winds. It is understood exhaust fume concentrations are HMS SHEFFIELD to sometimes penetrating into the ship's ventilation system, while the side Chile? exhaust ducts above the waterline According to Chilean government cannot be used if another ship is moored sources ihe Chilean Navy is in advanced alongside. negotiations with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the acquisition of An ESSM being launched from a lest Mk-29 O pie launcher The ESSM has performed well in SVTOL F-35 JSF for the ex-RN Type 22 Baich 2 frigate HMS testing with the first mm being delivered to the kN lor testing from an An/ac frigate tRaytheon) SHEFFIELD. RN destruction of a BMQ-74 drone problems occurred which were finally SHEFFIELD was officially approaching the vessel with a closure tracked down to an imbalance of the The UK Defence Procurement Minister. decommissioned early from the RN at a speed between ESSM and the shafts connecting the diesel engines Lord Bach, announced on 30 September ceremonv at Devonport. Plymouth, on manoeuvring target drone approaching with the gearbox through a watertight 2002 the selection of the short take-off 14 November 02. She was named after Mach 3. compartment bulkhead. The heavy and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the ill-fated Type 42 destroyer sunk in Although ESSM uses a slightly weight of the shaft led to the elastic- the Lockheed Martin F-35 Joint Strike the Falklands Conflict. modified version of the semi-active rubber parts in the coupling to creep", Fighter to equip the Royal Navy's new It is also understood thai the UK radar seeker fitted to the RIM-7P NATO which in turn resulted in a "noticeable aircraft carriers. The carriers will, MoD has indicated to the Chileans that imbalance" at high speed. The noise Sea Sparrow Missile, the ability to however, be designed to allow future iwo RN Type 23 frigates could become adaptation to accommodate other uplink target information provides a av ailable from 2(X)4 or 2005. aircraft designs if need be. greatly increased range of guidance and Upon successful conclusion of the homing modes. As ESSM is also The STOVL version of the F-35 negotiations the frigate would be taken designed to counter incoming aircraft, meets the UK's requirement for a Joint to Chile for refit in a local shipyard. the missile can also fly in an Combat Aircraft to replace the Harrier, The Chilean Navy needs to replace three electronically stealtny delayed both for service afloat and ashore, Prat-class (former RN County-class) illumination mode, with its radar retaining the flexibility offered by a destroyers acquired from the UK in the switched oil until the final phases. This jump-jet' configuration, yet offering all 1980s, and which are to be paid off in enables the missile to remain undetected the advantages of a modern stealth 2004. 2006 and 2007, respectively. by radar warning receivers. design. This version is also being Thalcs's design concept for the RN's new aircraft carrier A rather unconventional design with two islands. The German Type 123 frigate FGS adopted by the US Marine Corps. have the capability to be fitted with BRANDENBURG. The F 123s have had some However, given that the new carriers arc helicopter-capable offshore patrol F-123 frigates receive serious problems since launch which are now planned to have a service life of up to catapults and arrestor gear, although vessels and a mulli-role vessel (MRV) silent treatment being addressed (German Navy) fifty years - longer than that expected they will be built with the 'ski-ramp' to replace the Leander-class frigate well-known from the Royal Navy's HMNZS CANTERBURY when it is created has been described as an for the aircraft - BAE Systems and Noise problems which have plagued the current Invincible class carriers for decommissioned in 2005. earthquake inside the ship that made it Thales. competing for the design and German Navy's Type F-123 STOVL operations. The upgrade or replacement of five possible to not only locale the type of construction of the vessels, have been multipurpose frigates ever since the four The UK is heavily involved in the existing RNZN inshore patrol boats is ship using sonar but also identify the asked to opt for a design which can be ships entered service between 1994-% Joint Strike Fighter project, with Rolls- included under 'Project Protector', individual ship. adapted to operate more conventional are believed to have been solved. aircraft types if necessary later in the Royce leading the development of the although budget constraints may see this The problem is believed to have The F-123 frigates, a close relative lift system for the STOVL variant. Up It) dropped. been solved by installing a lighter of the Anzac frigate and the new F-124 150 of the aircraft will be acquired by The cost of the MRV has been Gesilco (Geislinger Silent Coupling) The now decommissioned TVpe 22 Batch 2 frigate which is one of the lead the MoD. in a programme worth up to capped and not to exceed US$100 shaft/coupling assembly made of carbon ships' lives. To this end. the ships will frigate HMS SHEFFIELD. It is understood Chile contenders for the RAN SEA 4000 £10 billion. million. and the UK arc in advanced negotiations for fiber. program, feature a conventional two- When the shortlist is announced, a Chile to purchase the ship. (RN) Other problems experienced with shaft combined diesel or gas turbine Vessel Performance and Integrated the F-I23s have involved the diesel (CODOG) propulsion system RNZN shopping for Logistics Specifications study will be generator exhaust ducts located just • comprising two GE LM-2500 gas ships undertaken. involving extensive Tenix strengthens its turbines, two MTU diesels. Renck- above the waterline on both sides of the consultation with all client agencies that Tacke reduction gearboxes and Sulzer ship. Frequent and expensive repairs The New Zealand Ministry of Defence submarine warfare have been necessary because of the will task the vessels through the NZ Escher Wyss controllable pitch A STOVE F-35 JSF in the hover mode during (MoD) has short listed six organisations capabilities corrosive mixture of sea water, exhaust Maritime Co-ordination Centre. propellers. Despite being a "low-risk" testing The RN ha. decided to slay with the to supply vessels under its USS500 gas condensation and carbon particles. So far the shipbuilders invited to propulsion design unexpected v ibration STOVL-ski-jump combination for its new aircraft million "Project Protector'. The project Australian Defence contractor Tenix earners respond to the requirement are BAE will sec the RNZN receive up to three Defence has signed a research 16 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I 20 22 agreement with Royal Melbourne Service Life Extension Programme by crash occurred due to an aerodynamic SM-3 scores, again deployment against short-to-medium- aft body will be modified to Institute of Technology University to African Defence Systems. phenomenon called vortex ring state. range ballistic missile threats. The accommodate the new propulsion plant, examine developments in technologies The two Daphne-class diesel electric This occurs when a rotary wing aircraft success of this test demonstrates that with fixed geometry air intakes situated used in Anti-Submarine Warfare attack submarines were originally laid descends faster that its forward sea-based missile defense on a forward between the missile's cruciform mid- deployed ship with a high-velocity (ASW). down in the late 1960s, and suffered in momentum and passes through its own body wings. guided missile can defend large regions, The study, in three stages over 12 the wilderness ol South Africa's years of down wash. One way to avoid vortex The jettisonable solid-fuelled rocket on the order of 500.000 square miles, or months, will focus on the Airbornc- apartheid-related sanctions. Despite ring state is with forward momentum, almost twice the size of the State of booster from the Block 2 Exocet will be ASW environment in which the S-70B- constant local efforts to upgrade and that way the aircraft can descend at Texas."* said Edward Miyashiro. retained. The missile is similar in size maintain the boats, by the early 1990s speed and not pass through its own 2 Seahawk Helicopter operates and the Raytheon's Vice President for Surface to its forerunner but different enough so the SAN was desperately searching the downwash. In the last accident it is improvements needed to enhance the Navy Air Defense Systems. as to not be able to integrate into world for increasingly hard-to-find understood that one side of the V-22 aircraft's capabilities and lifespan. existing MM-40 launch equipment or spares. entered a vortex ring state thus The Seahawks are an integral part of completely unbalancing the whole A developmental Standard Missile ? (SM-3). mission planning hardware. the FFG weapon system, planned lo This latest much-needed upgrade Indonesia successfully aircraft and causing an unrecoverable designed to intercept short to medium-ranged A new navigation system and continue in service until 2020. The life has seen UMKHONTO and ballistic missile threats in space, is launched from spin. tests Exocets mission planning software, together of the Seahawks will need to be ASSEGAA1 receive a new combat the Pearl Harhor-hased Aegis cruiser USS LAKE The ITT is using Aircraft No. 8. one ERIE 24 VOL 65 NO I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I 25 Observations international coalitions, drawing on the forces we develop made significant progress in grappling with unknowns of the for higher priority tasks. future. By Geoffrey Evans Following so closely on the Defcnce White Paper 2000. It is the opinion of the League that, while events overseas the terms of reference for the Joint Standing Committee on during the past 12 or so months have to a degree heightened Foreign Affairs. Defence and Trade (JSCFAD&T) appear to the uncertainty of forecasting our security needs, the broad MARITIME STRATEGY A maritime strategy has been a vital part of Australia's now question Australia's fundamental strategic interests and thrust of "Defence 2000" remains valid. defence policy for many years and was endorsed only two objectives or. at least, to raise doubts about the completeness of the White Paper. INQUIRY years ago with the release of the government's Defence Funding That being said, the Navy League supports periodic The Navy League has participated in a number of defence and 2000 White Paper, a policy statement preceded by extensive The Committee will be aware that for a number of years reviews of government policy in relation lo defence of maritime-related inquiries during the past 25 years and did not public consultation. The Navy League appreciates the Australia, particularly when this has been seen as the money allocated for defence purposes has not kepi pace with hesitate when Parliament's Joint Standing Committee on prevailing state of nervousness in communities world-wide, consistently highest priority of successive governments. ever-increasing costs, particularly for equipment but in other F oreign Affairs. Defence & Trade (JSCFAD&T) announced created largely, but not only by. the acts of terrorists, but Since the White Paper was published there have been two areas such as personnel. an inquiry into the role of maritime strategy in Australia's believes implementation of Defence 2000 is the best way to major events which have relevance to Australia's fifth In publishing "Defence 2000" the Government estimated defence policy: A submission was lodged by the end of ensure the nation's security. The League's submission strategic policy, namely to contribute to the efforts of the that defence spending would need to grow by an average of October and the League has been advised thai public hearings follows: international community, especially the United Nations, to about three percent per annum in real terms over the next will begin in February. uphold global security. These are the terrorist attacks of I Ith decade, albeit it was acknowledged that such growth is September 2001 in New York and the current circumstances in slightly below the average annual growth rate of Australia's Iraq. The former led to the deployment of Australian defence economy over the last two decades. However, the NAVY LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA SUBMISSION TO THE personnel and equipment to Afghanistan and the Arabian Gulf, Government did speculate that if our economy grows on the latter to consideration of Australia's possible involvement average as fast as it has over the last two decades, in 2010 we JOINT PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE ON in military action against Iraq. will be spending about the same proportion of GDP on The JSCFAD&T Committee, in the preamble to the Terms defence as we are today. That is 1.9%. FOREIGN AFFAIRS DEFENCE & TRADE of Reference (TOR) appears to re-affirm Australia's The Navy League is deeply concerned that the increased "fundamental maritime strategy" requiring the Australian demands placed on the Defence Force since "Defcnce 2000" INQUIRY INTO AUSTRALIA'S MARITIME Defence Organization (ADO) to "maintain and further was published and the possibility of continued and growing develop an integrated and balanced joint force" and the STRATEGY involvement with international coalitions of forces has already preamble also illuminates the reason for the Inquiry in stating shown that actual and forecasted funding for Defence is that: inadequate. • The inquiry aims to develop a comprehensive • Our third objective is to work with others to promote The League does not believe that the solution lies in a The Navy League believes it is necessary to refer to the understanding of Maritime Strategy and its place within recasting of Australia's broader strategic interests, nor in an Government's November 2000 Defence White Paper - stability and cooperation in South East Asia. Australia's broader military strategy and defcnce policy, adjustment of those capability development principles set out "Defence 2(XX) - Our Future Defence Force" - before • Our fourth objective is to contribute in appropriate ways to and maintain strategic stability in the wider Asia Pacific in the White Paper. To do so would, in the opinion of the addressing matters that are the subject of the present Inquiry. • Also seeks to understand the implications of a Maritime Navy League, more likely than not skew the achievement of region. Strategy for the other tasks set out in the White Paper. Defence White Paper 2000 - Ministerial • Our fifth strategic objective is to contribute to the efforts the Defence Capability Plan set out in Chapter 8 of "Defence Endorsement of the international community, especially the United Terms of Reference 2000". Nations, to uphold global security. The Minister's introduction to the Defence White Paper Having addressed these objectives the White Paper states While the foregoing rationale for the Inquiry is clear, one 2000 claims that this document has established an historic that "We will continue to support the United States in the might however question whether there is some underlying The Navy League strongly recommends the JSC FAD A T benchmark for the development of Australia's defence force. major role it plays in maintaining and strengthening the global reason for it. or whether there is now a perception that acknowledge the increased demands being put on the It states that the While Paper sets it apart from its predecessors security order. Australia also has a strong interest in non- insufficient study was put into the development of the White Defence Force since the White Paper mu formulated and in three key ways proliferation regimes that prevent the spread of weapons of Paper. The later seems unlikely, noting the previous include in its report a strong recommendation for The first is the degree of ministerial involvement. mass destruction." Minister's perception that the White Paper established an additional annual funding. The second is the Government's decision to lay down the historic benchmark. most specific long-term defence funding commitment given Australia's Military Strategy and Priorities The Terms of Reference themselves are of such a broad by any Australian Government in over 25 years. nature that they give the JSCFAD&T full scope to examine The Defence White Paper, having established Australia's The third is a clear statement of the Government's and challenge every aspect of the Defence White Paper, strategic interests and objectives, comments on Australia's requirements of its defence organization. including the long held principle that the first responsibility of Maritime Strategy military strategy and priorities as follows: The League notes the Minister has stated that the White Government is the defence of our country and our community • The priority task for ADF is the defence of Australia. This While the Navy League supports in principle the term Paper establishes "an heroic benchmark for the development from armed attack. Given the findings of the Community embraces self-reliance, control of the sea and air "Maritime Strategy" as indicating Australia's geographic of Australia's defence force". Consultative Team (The Peacock Inquiry) that preceded the approaches and the ability to attack hostile forces as far White Paper it would seem unwise for any Government to environment, it believes there is some risk this will be from our shores as possible. Australia's Strategic Interests change the general order of priority accorded home defence. narrowly interpreted as restricted to the sea/air gap between • The second priority for the ADF is contributing to the The Navy League has contributed to a number of inquiries North West Australia and the southern limit of the archipelago In considering Australia's strategic interests and objectives the security of our immediate neighbourhood. The capability into defence and maritime-related matters over the past thirty area to the north. The strategic reality is that should Australia While Paper asserts that the highest priority is accorded to our to help our neighbours would be drawn from the forces we years and is not unfamiliar with the problems government and have to defend itself from an external threat, serious interests and objectives closest to Australia. It states that: have developed for the defence of Australia. security planners have had to face. During the whole of that consideration would have to be given to operations beyond the • Australia's most important long-term strategic objectives • The third priority for Australia's forces is supporting period "change" and "uncertainty" have been words most sea/air gap. This could involve ground forces, which would is to ensure the defence of Australia and its direct Australia's wider interests and objectives by being able to often used to describe the difficulties of those charged with the need logistic and combat support from both Navy and Air approaches. contribute effectively to international coalitions of forces responsibility of ensuring the nation's security. It is the view Force operating beyond the southern limits of the • The second objective is to foster the security of our to meet crises beyond our immediate neighbourhood. The of the Navy league that the White Paper. "Defence 2000". Archipelago. immediate neighbourhood. White Paper states we would do this by contributing to 27 31 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I Australian flagged shipping has continued to declinc. The Navy League recommends the JSC FA DA T address PRODUCT REVIEW this issue in their deliberations: r The Navy League considers a healthy Australian shipping Lucky Ross THE CAPITAL SHIPS industry to be of vital importance to the nation's wellbeing Range of Maritime Activities and an essential part of a credible maritime strategy. The The Autobiography of an RAN Their Battles and Their Badges League urges the JSCFADA T to give urgent attention to The Navy League also wishes to emphasise that a nation's officer 1934 - 1951 and Maritime strategy is not confined solely to military forces but this mutter. By W.H. (John) Ross. Published by Hesperian Press W.A. must also include a range of activities associated with the sea. THE DESTROYERS These include merchant shipping a vital factor in the nation's Review ed by Ian Johnson Their Battles and Their Badges well being: shipbuilding and ship repair and maintenance: the Evacuation of Australian Nationals Lucky Ross is an insight into the RAN both prior to, and fishing industry and policing of adjacent waters. including, the Second World War. This autobiography goes Both by Vic Cassells The Navy League does not envisage Australia declaring war into detail about serving as a midshipman on HMAS Price: $49.95 each on or engaging in a pre-emptive strike against any State in the AUSTRALIA (II) as it takes H.R.H. the Duke of Gloucester Published by Kangaroo Press Pty Ltd. 20 Barcoo Street. East | The Navy League recommends this be noted. neighbourhood. This is not to say Australia could not become from Australia to Britain in 1934. Ross then served on HMAS Rosevilie. NSW 2069 involved in hostile activities instigated by other States, nor SYDNEY (II) from commissioning in Britain through to Reviewed by: Vic Jeffery preclude a need, in our immediate aiea. to evacuate Australian Naval Force Balance combat in the Mediterranean and the shock at her sinking. These two superb reference books by respected naval author nationals in a variety of circumstances. HMAS CANBERRA was his final ship and he was there when Vic Cassells are worthy additions to any naval or maritime While the composition of the Navy's present combat forces The 1987 Fijian troubles indicated shortcomings in this ship was lost in 1942. After this he was assigned to library. conveys the impression of a reasonably well-balanced force to Australia's ability to evacuate nationals but the conversion of various shore establishments until his retirement in 1951. Lavishly illustrated and affordable, both contain hundreds support Government's policies, there is one notable omission. two former USN vessels into multi-purpose ships, the LPAs John Ross freely admits that he had a lucky streak. From of photographs and line drawings, many in colour. 1 have This is the absence of adequate air defence. Without this the MANOORA and KANIMBLA. has improved the RAN's great postings to surviving the enemy. John Ross talked about always admired the author's meticulous attention to detail, operational range of ships must be suspect. With the ability to meet this requirement. The League does not these things in both letters and his dairy as he served along and these two books are no exception to the rule. decommissioning of the RAN's three Guided Missile discount the importance of the Air Force in evacuating some of the RAN's finest officers. From Captain John Collins Consisting of 221 pages. The Capital Ships covers Destroyers (DDG's) the Navy is now left with no Tier One nationals but airfields may not always be available. to Captain Harold Farncomb. His personal accounts of life at Australia's first flagship, the battle cruiser HMAS surface combatant. This weakness is recognised in the White sea as both serious and on the lighter side of life. AUSTRALIA (I). 13 cruisers, three light fleet aircraft carriers, Paper but it would appear that an adequate platform (three Air This is a great first hand account of some of the RAN's the seaplane carrier HMAS ALBATROSS and the destroyer Defence capable ships ) will not be available until about the The Navy League recommends the JSC FAD AT note the history. Filled with rare photographs this book is a great tender HMAS STALWART (II). year 2013. this must place undesirable restriction in the value of multi-capable Surface Vessels edition to any library. The 250 page The Destroyers covers three flotilla leaders. flexibility of our naval forces. Available from Hesperian Press at HMAS ANZAC (I). HMAS STUART (1) and HMAS Australian Defence Industry www.hesperianpress.com or PO Box 317 Victoria Park W.A. VAMPIRE (I), 22 destroyers. 11 torpedo boat destroyers and The Navy League recommends the JSC FA DAT seek 6979. Ph (08) 9362- 5955 three guided-missile destroyers. The ill-fated light destroyer The Navy League is aware that the naval shipbuilding industry expert advice from Defence on this perceived weakness. project of 1968-73 is also included. has been under review and that proposals have been submitted Not included are destroyer escorts or frigates, these types for consideration by the Government. The League desires of ships being the subject of a third volume in preparation. only to caution against having a "single entity" with which the Both books cover a similar format. Battle Honours. Employment of Naval Forces Government would deal. Instead the League recommends Derivation of the Names. Technical Data. Ships' Badges. The League has some concern about the need for the RAN to several "preferred tenderers" with known expertise or Commanding Officers. Casualty Lists and Ships of the Name. use its largest warships for "border protection" in northern experience in the field into which the equipment sought by A chapter is devoted to each individual ship and four excellent waters and occasionally, for dashes to southern waters to Defence falls. It will be obvious that shipbuilding is not a self- appendices: Glossary of Heraldic Terms. The Naval Crown. apprehend fish poachers: While there are benefits in the contained industry as the requirements extend into all types of Ships' Badges - Ancient Glories, and Battle Honours support experience gained by such operations the Navy League does industry. each book. not believe this is the most cost effective way of employing The author's time as Heraldry Advisor to the Royal major combatants. The League thinks this should be a major The Navy League recommends several "preferred I L. \„i. • Australian Navy when he was involved in the design of ships factor in deciding the size and capabilities of the replacements tenders "for defence contracts. K \ \ i lit badges and previous to that in the Ship Design Drawing Office for the FREMANTLE-Class patrol boat. shows, providing a level of in-depth information one would SUMMARY not obtain from books available at this price. The Navy League recommends this view be noted. It is interesting to note how some ships badges have Notwithstanding the recent tragic loss of innocent lives in evolved and been altered over the years. Others have been re- Indonesia and uncertainty surrounding events in Iraq and Merchant Shipping Industry designed. ie. HMAS SHROPSHIRE, re-designed and Australia's present commitments in Afghanistan, the Navy approved on January 4. 1974 for use by the RAN. it is highly For a significant trading nation it is remarkable that Australia League believes the broader policies outlined in the White unlikely it will ever be reactivated for Australian warships. has for so long relied on overseas owned/flagged ships to Paper "Defence 2000" remain valid. It believes that, on the Battle Honours makes a fascinating appendix in both carry cargoes in and out of the country. On two occasions it whole. Australia's military commitments can be met from a books with re-examination of a ship's service. For instance the seemed that Australia had lessened its reliance on other force in being tailored for the defence of Australia employing heavy cruiser HMAS AUSTRALIA inherited a new Battle countries. During WW I following the withdrawal of foreign a maritime strategy. Honour. Pacific 1941-43 for convoy escort duty and had owned shipping the government acquired 43 ships and traded Guadalcanal 1942-43 amended to Guadalcanal 1942 because Should the JSC FA DA T inquiry reveal weaknesses in the as the Commonwealth Line of Steamers until a succeeding the ship wasn't in the area in 1943. present force structure to meet Australia's strategic government disbanded the Line in 1928: and in 1956 under The light cruiser HMAS PERTH has had two additions to priorities the Navy League recommends the solution lies W.H. I..Iin K. - enterprising leadership the Australian National Line traded her proud Battles Honours, Mediterranean 1941 and Pacific in increasing funding arrangements rather than successfully and profitably for more than a decade before 1941-42, taking her tally to nine. The destroyer HMAS disruption to long term defence funding projections. declining in importance due largely to government inertia. QUIBERON was awarded an additional three Battle Honours. 28 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I 31 Atlantic 1942-42. Indian Ocean 1943-44. and also Pacific beached and to defend themselves against surface, sub surface simultaneous terror and excitement of dropping into in the series and giving an outline of their history and 1945. taking its tally to seven. and air threats. To incorporate these wartime demands the Normandy unaware of what to expect, and then to see their involvement in the Band of Brothers story. All-in-all. they are two most informative and thoroughly Landing Craft Ship (LCS) was conceived and developed story dramatically recreated over the next hour. The quality of the DVD transfer itself is exceptional. Both enjoyable books. Recommended reading. I look forward to the achieving the popular nickname the Mighty Midget. We are introduced to the men of Easy Company during visual and audio quality is astounding, with each layer of DTS third in the series covering destroyer escorts and frigates. The author's in-depth research clearly reveals the their intensive airborne training in the United States and begin sound split evenly throughout the surround speakers, with a extensive role and responsibility placed upon LCS crews and to see the bond that will carry them through the next three nice balance for dialogue ensuring everything is crystal clear Mighty Midgets at War - of the highly versatile design of the Mighty Midget. The years of action. From the second episode Easy Company is and easy to hear even during the series' quietest moments. Mighty Midget went on to have a distinguished service role in thrown into action, taking a significant role in some of the Visually, the image is incredibly clean with little bleed, The Saga of the LCS(L) Ships the Pacific Theatre and provided a variety of tasks such as major offensives of the end of WWII including the Normandy fading, shadows or distortion, even during the night sections mine sweeping, troop and vehicle landing, smoke coverage, D-Day invasion. 'Operation Market Garden', the Battle of the where most films struggle with the DVD format. From Iwo Jima To Vietnam rocket attack, radar picket, search and rescue and anti-Aircraft Bulge and the seize of Hitler's Eagle's Nest at Berchtesgaden. The series' documentary film technique works By Robin L Rielly roles. Visually stunning, each engagement is a harrowing exceptionally well on the small screen, with the DVD Hell gate Press 20(H) The service and resilience of this design saw LCS involved experience, with the DVD format making excellent use of the minimising any sense of grain experienced during the recent Soft Cover. 299 pp Illustrated in Allied and USN service in Korea and Vietnam. The dynamic camerawork and perfectly balanced surround sound. television broadcast, ensuring a crisp edge to the widescreen Reviewed by Paul D. Johnstone eventual retirement of this design was a milestone in itself, The invasion of Normandy, engagement at Ardennes forest format. Available from Crusader Trading. 9 Townsville St. Fyshwick when in 1997 Thailand retired its last LCS from service. near Bastogne. Belgium and the horrific Carentan encounter Available in one of the more dynamic box set packages in ACT 2609. Phone orders 102) 6239 2332 The author. Rielly. is generous in detail and has no doubt are particular standouts for their realism and deeply emotive recent years, the overall look and ease of access to the set is Price: $46.20 (+pp when phone orderingI extensively combed the US National archives and collective sequences. commendable and looks good on the shelf. This book is one that you definitely do not judge by its cover memories of those who served to produce Mighty Midgets at Led by a cast of relative no-names and character actors. Overall, the Band of Brothers DVD box collection is a or by the introductory paragraph which are both misleading in War. The illustrations span from the engraving dock to the Band of Brothers succeeds with an ever-changing ensemble resounding success and should be considered a must have for terms of the high quality of research and detail. Written in scrap yard with many others showing the Mighty Midgets in committed to strong dialogue and historically accurate action. anyone who enjoyed the series or is an avid fan of excellent extensive detail the military history of the Might Midget LCS action and the weapons deployed on the LCS as well as those With almost 60 key roles throughout the ten-part series, there storytelling and war drama. begins w ith the USN and USMC placing pressure upon the US used against them by subsequent enemies. is not a weak link among the cast members, surprising Without question. Band of Brothers is one of the most government to design and develop landing craft for The Might\ Midgets at War The Saga of the LCS(L) Ships considering at least half of the lead cast are English carrying successful and resoundingly emotive war stories captured on amphibious assaults. In a period of American disengagement from Iwo Jima To Vietnam is a well researched, illustrated off US accents. screen in the past decade. with Europe and arms limitations, the author notes history of Naval Maritime design that made a significant Although driven by a plot filled with moments of tension interestingly that in 1936 Britain and the USA were working contribution across three conflicts and countless skirmishes. It and loss. Band of Brothers refuses to fall into the melodrama cooperatively to design and develop vessels and doctrine for is a simple yet informative writing style and makes this book or sob story trap, instead relying upon smart writing and amphibious landings and assaults. As a consequence of this one worth reading. strong visuals to communicate the mix of terror, courage, program and the adaptation of several civilian craft designs, sacrifice and humanity of the Second World War effort. the grandfathers of our present concept of LSD. LST and LCT Band of Brothers Supporting the five discs of the Band of Brothers series were created. Charged with the landing of infantry these (two episodes per disc) is a stand-alone special features disc Landing Ships (LS) and Landing Craft (LC) were designed to DVD box collection containing an 80-minute documentary profiling the surviving traverse the oceans, remain seaworthy, and be able to be members of Easy Company. Titled We Stand Alone Together: Warner Bros Home Entertainment The Men of Easy Company, the documentary is a deeply Available in stores now moving examination of the lives of the men of Easy Company, Reviewed by James Rickards with the survivors talking of how they first learnt of the war. From Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, the creative forces their training, first jump, and their memories good and bad of behind 'Saving Private Ryan', comes the powerful ten-part their numerous conflicts as dramatised in the Band of Brothers television epic now available in a boxed set on DVD. series. The most expensive mini-series ever made. Band of Using rare archival footage to overlay the interviews, the Brothers is the epic true story of elite US parachute unit Easy documentary is an excellent epilogue to the overall ten Company, 506th Regiment. 101st Airborne Division's episode series, showcasing both the talents of the men who engagement in World War II. survived and the credibility of the film makers who chose to Based on the novel by Stephen Ambrose and taken from try and tell their story as factually accurate as possible. 3* interviews with the surviving members of Easy Company. We Stand Alone Together is a riveting examination of the Band of Brothers is a ten-part portrayal of a unit's struggle to history of the airborne unit, detailing some of the most savage survive in war-tom Europe while sustaining over 150<£ as well as quiet moments experienced on the front. The casualties, the largest in US history. documentary should be considered a must for anyone who Employing the same cinematic techniques as those used enjoyed the initial ten episode series or wants to learn of what for Spielberg's Saving Private Ryan, such as hand-held was then a new and untested type of combat unit. This cameras and drab colour tones of browns and greys, the series' documentary is in essence the motivation and heart and soul §1^documentar y feci v'\ idly captures the confusion and terror of of the Band of Brothers epic. young soldiers dropped behind enemy lines under the harshest Other special features available on the disc include a 30- of conditions. minute behind the scenes making of the documentary on the Each episode begins with the real life survivors of Easy series and a video diary from actor Ron Livingston Company discussing their memories of the story about to be showcasing the basic training boot camp the actors were told. These brief minutes of emotional insight remind the forced to endure to ensure they could realistically portray their audience that what is about to come is grounded in fact, with real life counterparts. character names taken from their living counterparts. Other special features include a TV special on the series While dramatic licence has obviously been taken in parts, premier at Normandy and an expanded field guide 'Who's it is somewhat humbling to hear the survivors talk of their who' to the men of Easy Company, identifying each character 30 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I 31 STATEMENT of I'OI Vl\ I , . Ik • 'I \ll-l! .ill.I The strategic background to Australia's security has ensure that, in conjunction with the RAAF. this can changed in recent decades and in some respects become be achieved against any force which could be more uncertain. The League believes it is essential that deployed in our general area. Australia develops capability to defend itself, paying • Is concerned that the offensive and defensive particular attention to maritime defence. Australia is. of capability of the RAN has decreased markedly in geographical necessity, a maritime nation whose prosperity recent decades and that with the paying-off of the strength and safety depend to a great extent on the security DDGs. the Fleet will lack air defence and have a of the surrounding ocean and island areas, and on seaborne reduced capability for support of ground forces. trade. • Advocates the very early acquisition of the new The Navy League: destroyers as foreshadowed in the Defence White • Believes Australia can be defended against attack Paper 2. by other than a super or major maritime power and • Advocates the acquisition of long-range precision that the prime requirement of our defcnce is an weapons to increase the present limited power evident ability to control the seu and air space projection, support and deterrent capability of the around us and to contribute to defending essential RAN. lines of sea and air communication to our allies. • Advocates the acquisition of unmanned • Supports the ANZUS Treaty and the future surveillance aircraft such as the GLOBAL HAWK reintegration of New Zealand as a full partner. primarily for offshore surveillance. • Urges a close relationship with the nearer ASEAN • Advocates the acquisition of sufficient Australian- countries. PNG and the Island States of the South Pacific. built afloat support ships to support two naval task • Advocates a defence capability which is forces w ith such ships having design flexibility and knowledge-based with a prime consideration given commonality of build. to intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. • Advocates the acquisition at an early date of • Advocates the acquisition of the most modern integrated air power in the fleet to ensure that ADF armaments and sensors to ensure that the ADF deployments can be fully defended and supported maintains some technological advantages over from the sea. forces in our general area. • Advocates that all Australian warships should be • Believes there must be a significant deterrent equipped with some form of defence against element in the Australian Defence Foree (ADF) missiles. capable of powerful retaliation at considerable • Advocates that in any future submarine distances from Australia. construction program all forms of propulsion be • Believes the ADF must have the capability to examined with a view to selecting the most protect essential shipping at considerable distances advantageous operationally. from Australia, as well as in coastal waters. • Advocates the acquisition of an additional 2 or 3 • Supports the concept of a strong modern Air Force updated Collins class submarines. and highly mobile Army, capable of island and • Supports the maintenance and continuing jungle warfare as well as the defence of Northern development of the mine-couniermcasurcs force Australia. and a modern hydrographic/oceanographic • Supports the development of amphibious forces to capability. ensure the security of our offshore territories and to • Supports the maintenance of an enlarged, flexible enable assistance to be provided by sea as well as by patrol boat fleet capable of operating in severe sea air to friendly island states in our area. states. • Endorses the transfer of responsibility for the co- • Advocates the retention in a Reserve Fleet of Naval ordination of Coastal Surveillance to the defence vessels of potential value in defence emergency. force and the development of the capability for • Supports the maintenance of a strong Naval patrol and surveillance of the ocean areas all around Reserve to help crew vessels and aircraft in reserve, the Australian coast and island territories, including the Southern Ocean. or taken up for servicc. and for specialised tasks in time of defence emergency. • Advocates measures to foster a build-up of Australian-owned shipping to ensure the carriage of • Supports the maintenance of a strong Australian essential cargoes in war. Navy Cadets organisation. • Advocates the development of a defence industry The League: supported by strong research and design Calls for a bipartisan political approach to national organisations capable of constructing all needed defence with a commitment to a steady long-term build-up types of warships and support vessels and of in our national defence capability including the required providing systems and sensor integration with industrial infrastructure. through-life support. While recognising current economic problems and As to the RAN. the League: budgetary constraints, believes that, given leadership by • Supports the concept of a Navy capable of effective successive governments. Australia can defend itself in the action off both East and West coasts simultaneously longer term within acceptable financial, economic and and advocates a gradual build up of the Fleet to manpower parameters. VOL 65 NO I THE NAVY The R AN frigate HMAS M W( ASTI.I on patrol in the IVrsian tiulfand Jt speed (RAM rhc RN Type 42 destroyer HMS NCKTTINCiHAM being raised on ihe ship lilt vessel SWAN for Ininsporl hack to ihe I K after Ihe destroyer's grounding on Wolf Rock' oil I ord 11 owe Island A damaged seeiion of ihe how ean he seen IUSI elear of ihe watct The ship suffered even more damage down ihe unseen starboard side which ver> nearly sank her (Chris Sattler I Proving lhc> arc not a spent and rusting force the Russian Navy s Pacific Meet rcccnll) sent the 11 .(MM) tonne Slava class cruiscr \ ARYMt to the Japanese Naval Review in Tokyo Bay Ihe cruiser is a very powerful ship armed with 16 SS-N-12 Sandbox' supersonic anii-ship cruise missiles These missiles have a range of 550kms and a 2.0001b warhead with the ability to be targeted bv ship, helicopter or even satellite She also carriers 64 100km range SA-V6 'CirumMe' anti-aircraft missiles and 40 shorter range SA-N-4 (iecko' for close in missile defence Apart from more guns, heavyweight torpedos and anti-submarine mortars she has a top speed of 32kts and a range of 7.500nm at 15kts li is undersign! thai ( hina is interested in buying a partially complete Slava class cruiser currently still under conduction in the Black Sea t Brian Morrison. Warships & Marine Corps Museum, franklin. Tas) MEMBERSHIP JOINING THE LEAGUE Any person with an interest in maritime affairs, or who wishes to acquire an interest To become a Member of The League, simply complete the Application Form below, in. or knowledge of. maritime affairs and who wishes to support the objectives of the and post it. together with your first annual subscription of $24.20 (which includes the League, is invited to join. four quarterly editions of The Navy), to the Hon Secretary of the Division of the Navy League in the State in which you reside, the address of which tire as follows: OBJECTIVES 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 1303, Box Hill Delivery Centre. Vic 3128. maritime well-being of the Nation" by: QUEENSLAND DIVISION: PO Box 13402. George Street Post Shop. Brisbane. Old 4003. SOUTH AUSTRALIAN DIVISION: GPO Box 1529. Adelaide. SA 5001. TASMANIAN DIVISION: C/- 42 Amy Road, Launceston, Tas 7250. • Keeping before the Australian people the fact that we are a maritime nation and WEST AUSTRALIAN DIVISION: C/- 23 Lawlor Road. Attadate, WA 6156. that A strong Navy and a sound maritime industry are indispensable elements of out national well-being and vital to the freedom of Australia. If you live in the Australian Capital Territory or the Northern Territory, please post the form to the Hon Secretary of the New South Wales or South Australian Division • Promoting defence self reliance by actively supporting manufacturing, shipping respectively. and transport industries Subscriptions are due on 1 July in each year, and your membership will be current to 30 June immediately following the date on which you Join the League, except that If your • Promoting, sponsoring and encouraging the interest of Australian youth in the sea first subscription is received during the period 1 April to 30 June in any year, your Initial The Navy League of Australia and sea-services, and supporting practical sea-training measures. II be extended to 30 June in the following year. • Co-operating with other Navy Leagues and sponsoring the exchange of cadets for training purposes THE NAVY LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP Application for Membership ACTIVITIES The Navy League of Australia works towards its objectives in a number of ways: To: The Hon Secretary The Navy League of Australia • By including in its membership leading representatives of the many elements which HISTORICAL form the maritime community. Division • Through soundly-based contributions by members to journals and newspapers, Sir or Madam. The Navy League was established in Australia in 1901, and other media comment. initially in the form of small branches of the United Kingdom I wish to join the Navy League of Australia, the objectives of which I support, and I endose a remittance for $24.20 being my first annual subscription to 30 June next Navy League (established in 1897) and since 1950 as an • By supporting the Australian Navy Cadets, and assisting in the provision of training autonomous national body headed by a Federal Council facilities consisting of a Federal President and representatives of the Name: (Mr) six States, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern • By encouraging and supporting visits by recognised world figures such as former Territory. United States Chiefs of Naval Operations and Britain's First Sea Lords. (Mis) (Ms) PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY (Rank) The Navy League of Australia is now one of a number of • By publishing The Navy, a quarterly journal reporting on local and overseas independent Navy Leagues formed in countries of the free maritime happenings, past, present and projected Street Suburb world to influence public thinking on maritime matters and State ftxtcode create interest in the sea. • 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 The Navy League of Australia cordially invites you to join us • By organising symposia, ship visits and various other functions of maritime interest Subscription* are due on 1 July In each year and your membership will be current lo 30 June in what we believe to be an important national task. Immediately following the date on which you Join the League, except that H your first throughout the year. subscription Is received during the period 1 April to 30 June In any year, your Initial Member participation is encouraged in all these activities. JOIN THE AUSTRALIAN NAVY CADETS If you are between the ages of 13 and 18 years: The Australian Navy Cadets provide for the spiritual, social and educational welfare of boys and girls and help to develop them in character, a sense of patriotism, self-reliance, citizenship and discipline Uniforms are supplied free of charge Cadets are required to produce a certificate from their doctor to confirm they are capable of carrying out the normal duties and activities of the Cadet Units If injured while on duty. Cadets are considered for payment of compensation Parades are normally held dunng a weekend day or on Friday evening The interesting syllabus of training covers a wide sphere and includes seamanship, handling of boats under sail and power, navigation, physical training, nfle shooting, signalling, splicing of ropes, general sporting activities and other varied subjects Instructional camps are anranged for Cadets and they are also given opportunities, whenever possible to undertake training at sea in ships of the Royal Australian Navy Cadets, if considering a sea career are given every assistance to join the Royal Australian Navy or Mercantile Marine, but there is no compulsion to join these Services For further information, please contact the Sentor Officer in your State, using the addresses provided below NEW SOUTH WALES: Cedet Liaison Officer. HMAS Penguin. Middle Heed Road. Mosman NSW 2088 Telephone: (02) 9960 0560 QUEENSLAND: Senior Officer ANC. Naval Support Office. Bulimba Barracks, PO Box S49 Bulimba OLD 4171 Telephone: (07) 3215 3512 WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Cadet Liaison Officer. HMAS Stirling. PO Box 228. Rockingham WA 6168. Telephone: (08) 9550 0468 SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Cadet Liaison Officer. Naval Support Office. Keswick Barracks Anzac Highway. Keswick SA 5035. Telephone (08) 8305 6708. VICTORIA: HMAS Cerberus. Westernport VIC 3920. Telephone: (03) 5950 7863. TASMANIA Cadet Liaison Officer. Naval Support Office. Anglesea Barracks. Locked Bag 3. Hobart TAS 7001. Telephone (03) 6237 7240. AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY: Commanding Officer. TS Canberra. HMAS Herman. Canberra ACT 2600 Telephone: (02) 6280 2762. NORTHERN TERRITORY: Cadet Liaison Officer. HMAS Coonawarra. PMB 11. Winnellle NT 0621. Telephone: (08) 8980 4446 THE NAVY All enquiries regarding the Nauy Magazine, subscriptions and editorial matters should be sent to: The Hon. Secretary. NSW Division NAVY LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA GFO Box 1719. Sydney NSW 2001 APRIL-JUNE 2003 2 (including GST) wwwnetspace net au>-navyleag VOLUME 65 NO. $5.45 The Magazine of the Navy L * +&T tralia / ' A a jrir-i 1 i \ ' i ^ Australia's Maritime Doctrine - Part 8 Pride oi^&TSiiltariA t jjr Aili ire AbsmAlM minis. Tte ISSN 13?? Australia's Leading Naval Magazine Since 1938 9 //OCOUUU 11k Ki Vs Upholder dass submarine HMCS WINDSOR Huili in Bnuun Itir ihi* Royal Na\y as HMS UNICORN. HMCS WINDSOR is ihe second ol liiur \icliHia class suhmaiines lhi- Canadian Navy is ir>ing (o press into senicc Howeser. ihe RCN is experiencing problems uiih rc-aclivaling ihe submarines ami conlij!unn£ Ihem semcc inlo ihe RCN (RCNl HMAS AN/AC in company uilh ihe KN Type -I- IVsiioycr HMS CARDIH HiKh ships ate cuirenlly operating in ihe I'eisian (iull enforcing I niied Nations sanctums • T1 Iraq 1RAN1 THE NAVY I he Vi\\ I i'H THE NAVY VOL 65 NO 2 1 We are seeking the assistance of readers to update this On the same page we accept thai (talking of surface forces) FROM I HE ( ROW S Vh S I register. I would appreciate being contacted at the addresses "practically every conceivable operation must be conducted at below, by anyone who was a member or associated with the considerable distances from shore bases" CRISIS IN THE MIDDLE EAST There can be little doubt that a number of factors Branch, or who know anybody who were. I have quoted in previous articles, research undertaken in influence public thinking about war. not only in Australia but Once a comprehensive list has been compiled, we have a the early 80s. which indicated that to provide a CAP of two When this edition of THE NAVY is published it is possible, in other democracies. Awareness of the deadly weapons view to look at the possibility of arranging a Reunion in late aircraft over the fleet at distance in excess of say 1500 miles indeed likely thai Australia will be engaged in hostilities in increasingly available, the absence of immunity for civilians 2004. from the coastline (and considerably further from an air base), ihe Middle East: As this column is prepared several weeks and consequential casualties and suffering, increased Thanks in excess of 50<£ of our available F/A-18 force would be beforehand, the view ahead is obscure to say the least and it educational opportunities, affluence, travel and exchanges required to be committed. It has been my understanding that it is possible lo comment only on the scene at the time. Dean Gedling between nations and not least, the influence of television and sicamhrefa opt us net. com. au has long been accepted that the likelihood of making such a It is fair lo say all wars are different: the cause, the way its depiction of war - factors tending to make war much less commitment, when those aircraft may well be required ihe war is conducted and the weapons used, the extent of 79 Campbell field Ave acceptable in democracies now than in the past. Regrettably, elsewhere, is remote. When the study was carried out, we hostilities, all may vary; so far as Australia is concerned Brudbury NSW 2560 not all countries are democracies. possessed 75 of these aircraft; we would now require to however, a common factor until the war in Vietnam has been Given changes in altitude and w ithout attempting to guess commit significantly in excess of 50% of the available force. the overwhelming support of the populace for the armed Dear Editor, what decisions will be made concerning Iraq - other than lo As for the F-111's. the numbers speak for themselves. Senior forces wherever they have been engaged - more often than I have just read "Australia's Maritime Doctrine Part 7" in the say it would seem essential for the United Nations members of Air Force confirmed these concerns 20 years ago. not a long way from Australia. January - March edition of THE NAVY and found it necessary Organisation to emerge stronger and not weaker whatever the If and when the government finds the funds for the Vietnam marked a turning point thai seems likely lo to check the date of publication. Whilst I would noi have been decisions - the fact remains that Australian sailors, soldiers Air Warfare Destroyers, or equips the RAAF with the Joint continue. Supported at first by a majority of Australians, surprised to read such an article in the mid 80s. I find it and airmen are in a potentially dangerous area and they must Strike Fighter, with a sufficient number having a STOVL attitudes began to change as the purpose of engagement in incredible to see such outdated views being peddled in the have the support of the Australian people now and when they capability, then we can look forward to Navy being able to Vietnam was questioned and following the introduction of 21st century. I realise that to quote snippets from an article can return. They deserve no less. operate at "considerable distances from shore bases", without national service, the despatch of young National Servicemen run the risk of taking matters out of context, but I shall lake Geoff Evans putting the ships and those who sail in them, at unacceptable to the war /one: protesters took to the streets to vent thai risk and quote just three sections of the article to make my risk. displeasure. A similar change of attitude ux>k place in the case. In the meantime let us accept the fact that the RAAF. with United Stales and in ihe event both countries w ithdrew their The photograph on page 13 carries the caption "As the or without air to air refuelling w ill not be able to carry out the armed forces. RAN has no aircraft carriers it relies on the RAAF for fighter protection." task. On page 16 we find thai "Combat Air Patrols (CAP) w ill Regards EROVI ()l R RE \I)KRS be provided by the RAAF's F/A-18 fighters or under certain John BiriJ conditions, by the F-111." Federal I ice President NLA Dear Editor, interesting to note that some of the things they have claimed As an avid reader of The Navy for many years. I would like lo do were actually done by the British, or French, etc. to compliment you on publishing the article by Paul Johnston Mr. Johnson correctly points out U-571 was actually sunk titled - Project SEA 1411 The Kaman Super Seasprite SH- by 461 Sdn. RAAF. To further Mr. Johnson's argument, it is 2G( A) in the Jan - Mar 03 edition. By drawing a comparison also interesting to note that the Enigma machine was captured with the New Zealand purchase, we are able to see how by a Royal Navy laskgroup. not the USN. The 2003 'King-Hall' Navy unrealistic and wasteful this project has become since Thanks for a great magazine. inception in 1997. Surely there was prov ision for updating or Robert Tugen cancelling the Project due to changed circumstances (like Via Email termination of the OPV project)? History Conference Also, of great concern to me. is the fact that the Project Dear Editor, SEA 1411 debacle has not attracted greater national media I totally agree with Ian Johnson from WA in Volume 65 No 1. coverage. After all. a SI billion loss is a national disgrace. We do need the cooperation of the Australian Armed ' The Navy and the Nation' Follow ing as it does on the heels of the massive cost blowouts Forces otherwise a lot of the remarkable stories of our relating to combat systems for the Collins class submarines, military will remain untold while Hollywood laughs all the The third King-Hall' Navy History Conference will he held in Canberra on 24-25 July 20113 The one has to ask if the responsible staff/consultants in the way to the bank, and into the history books. Department of Defence and the Australian Defence Material con ference will run from Thursday 24 July lo Friday 25 July at the Telstra Theatre. Australian War Forget about the Yanks winning the war. don'i remember Organisation, have been brought to account for their failures? Memorial in Canberra. the Alamo. The true and heroic accounts of the RAN. RAAF It is my view that there should be a public inquiry so that such and Australian Army need to be told! The conference is being jointly sponsored by the Royal Australian Navy's Sea Power Centre, the incidents w ill never re-occur. In the performance stakes, our Brian Vang/tan School of History. University of New South Wales. Australian Defence Force, and the Australian planners and policy makers have put Australia a long way Qld behind the Singaporeans (and in this case, even the Kiwis). Naval Institute. WAKE-UP AUSTRALIA" The broad theme of the conference is The Na\y and the Nation'. It s aim is to bring about a wider AUSTRALIAN NAVY PHOTOGRAPHERS With the above thoughts in mind. I was wondering if Paul understanding of the contribution the Na\y has made to national development up to the present Dear Editor, Johnston could do a follow up article in 12 months time A number of Ex-Photographers are attempting to compile a and the potential it has lo do so in the future. detailing what progress (if any), and an update on the Kiwi register of those who were involved with the Photographic success, including final cost? Some International keynote speakers include Professor George Baer from the US Naval War Branch of the Royal Australian Navy. I believe the Branch, Peter Liddle College. Professor Geoffrey Till from the UK Joint Services Staff College and Commander David which was part of the Reel Air Arm. was formed in the late Darwin 1940s and although small it did have, at times, up to thirty or Hobhs. MBE.RN (Rtd) Curator and Deputy Director of the Fleet Air Arm museum at RNAS more Officers, Sailors and Civilians attached to it. Yeovilton. UK. Dear Editor. We have a list from the 1992 Reunion held at HMAS. Contact officer is Mr Dave Griffin on telephone (02) 62662654, Fax (02) 626627N2. or on E mail It was good to see Mr. Johnson's letter titled "If the US can ALBATROSS, which has not been amended or added tot). address duvid.griffin.GQcbr.defence.gov.au do it. why can't we". More and more. Australia's cinemas are Since then more have passed through the Branch and many being filled with movies about America's military, and it is ex-members have moved from their original address. VOL. 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL (.5 NO. 2 .1 scientists. They are powered by four Paxman diesels turning The Royal Brunei Navy has a total personnel strength of two controlled-pitch propellers, and their hulls are fitted with 800 staff (including 65 officers) and a Special Combat fin stabilisers. One generator is able to meet normal loads. The Squadron of six officers and 114 men for river duties. new ships feature a comprehensive combat system based The main threat has traditionally come from neighbouring around the hub of an Alenia Marconi Systems (AMS) Indonesia, although the Chinese are likely to pose a future NAUTIS II command and fire-control system. concern and Islamic terror groups cannot be discounted as a AMS is also supplying AWS-9(3D) E/F-band surveillance security headache for the oil-rich sultanate. Britain has strong and target indication radar and iwo I802SW radar trackers. defence links with Brunei, with a Gurkha infantry battalion The vessels are armed with: and an Army Air Corps helicopter flight permanently • Eight MBDA MM40 Block 2 Exocet Surface-lo- stationed there. UK Royal Marines regularly train at the UK's Surfacc Missiles (SSMs). jungle warfare school in Brunei. The advent of the new • An MBDA Vertical Launch Sea Wolf installation corvettes will no doubt lead to regular exercises not only with containing 16 Surface-to-Air-Missiles (SAMs). regional allies, such as Singapore and Malaysia, but also with • A single Otobreda 76/62 Super Rapid gun. the RAN. Royal Navy and US Navy. Singapore maintains 5(H) • Two MSI-Dcfence DS 30B REMSIG guns. and. troops and a helicopter detachment in Brunei. • A Close-In Weapons System (CIWS). By 2003 the Royal Brunei Navy will consist of: A flight-deck aft provides for the operation of a Seahawk- 3 x F2000 corvettes. size helicopter, but there is no hangar facility. Other systems 3 x Waspada guided-missile Patrol Craft, armed with include a Radamec System 25(H) electro-optical director and Exocet Surface-to-Surface Missiles. TMS 4I30C hull-mounted sonar supplied by Thales 3 x Perwira Class inshore Patrol Boats. Underwater Systems (the sonar incorporates a torpedo SffW& 2 x Amphibious Warfare Craft. warning capability). Thales Sensors is supplying its Cutlass 2 x Landing Craft. 242 F.SM and Scorpion jammer, and Wallop Defence Systems 17 x Small Armed River Craft (for the Special Combat is providing the Super Barricade decoy system. Squadron). The Royal Brunei Navy 1 x Support Launch, and. NAKHOOA RAGAM being lowed lo her filling oui point al Scotsioun just after her launch (Dave Cullenl The three new OPVs will be based at Brunei's main naval 23 x Marine Police Patrol Boats. base in Muara. in the South China Sea and represent a l)a\e Cullen of the Kuropean WARSHIPS IFR magazine(*) profiles three new corvettes built on the Clyde for The significant enhancement for a small fleet. (•) Reprinted w ilh Ihe permission of the Editor. Royal Brunei Navy. BAE SYSTEMS Marine is completing contractor's sea trials of NAKHODA RAGAM. the first of a new class of three 95m Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) being built for the Royal Brunei Navy. She i> due to sail from Scotland to the Far East by the end of the year. The ships names are prefixed KDB (as in Kapal Diraja Brunei, which translates as Ship of the Rajah of Brunei) BENDAHARE SAKAM. the second ship of the class, was launched in June 2(H)I. She has completed diesel generator trials in dry dock at BAE SYSTEMS Scotstoun yard and is under-going contractor's sea trials with delivery in June 2003. The third and final vessel, named KDB JERAMBAK. was launched in June 2002 and is scheduled to be delivered in December 2003. A variant of the generic F2000 series corvette design. Royal Brunei Technical Services Sdn Bhd is procuring the ships under a UK/Brunei government-to-government contract signed in January 1998. The design is a reduced version of the Lekiu Class built by the same yard for Malaysia which cost around US $350 million each. With a displacement of approximately 1.500 tons standard and 2.000 tons full load, the new Brunei OPVs have a maximum speed of 30 knots and a range of 5.000 nautical miles at 12 knots. Endurance will be 14 days and they will have a crew of 62 NAKHODA RAGAM bow on and al speed during her recent sea trials. A Starboard view of NAKHODA RAGAM on sea trials. These corvettes nre well armed but questions are being asked in the naval intelligence world if the (including eight officers) and 24 berths for Flag Staff and (BAE Systems) Bpjnei Navy is up to the task of fully exploiting the capabilities of the new ships. (BAE Systems) VOL. 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL (.5 NO. 2 .1 During AUSTRALIA'S passage to Melbourne, fresh On 2 August an intense cyclone passed Marion Island and provisions, arctic and winter clothing and special stores had it was hoped that a high-pressure system would follow. With been hastily ordered and these were taken onboard the cyclone estimated to pass Heard Island on 5 August it was immediately on arrival. estimated that the following weather would ensure that about 7 August would be the best time to lower a boat at Heard With the object of clearing the upper deck and reducing Island. Violent weather was expected with Marion Island top weight, the barge, two motor boats, a whaler, four skiffs, reporting 11 wind gusts of over 160 kph. paravanes and various miscellaneous items were deposited A major problem emerged aboard AUSTRALIA on 4 ashore whilst the ship was undergoing refuelling. August when it became impractical to distil anything other Already considerable media and public interest had been than a token amount of feed water, even this proving generated with the ship being besieged by the media as it unsatisfactory. The inboard biologist addressed the problem as made hurried preparations, dubbing HMAS AUSTRALIA the an increased prevalence of plankton in the sea. usual in that "Mercy Ship". Ten men joined the cruiser before she sailed. area during August and September. They were two medical officers, two biologists, a The grim prospect of the mercy mission having to be meteorologist and five media representatives consisting of aborted loomed with only three day's feed water held in two journalists, two photographers and one Movietone News reserve. Fortunately the ship ran out of this unfavourable belt cameraman. of seawatcr in the nick of time and all efforts were then The news of the ship's intended deployment with thoughts concentrated on building up a reserve feed. The use of ship's of adventure swept through the ship and led too much onboard water was restricted to essential domestic purposes including excitement, further fuelled by the large crowd, which drinking and cleaning teeth. No one was allowed to wash. farewelled the ship as it sailed at 2230 on the night of July 27 Cold westerly gale force winds were experienced with to commence its mercy dash. bright periods being interspersed with occasional showers of As AUSTRALIA headed south west, precautions were soft hail being the general characteristics of the weather. taken in the provision and training of "lookouts" composed of Fuel reserves were becoming a concern and were officers, senior sailors and leading seamen to keep a watchful continuously studied as the days progressed. The urgency of eye for "growlers" (sections of disintegrating icebergs), it was the mercy dash precluded calling at Frcmantle to refuel and agreed "that trainees could barely be relied upon to show the the RAN did not possess a replenishment ship at that time. The Baltic cruiser HMAS AUSTRALIA (II) departing fn»in the wharf fortitude, alertness and concentration necessary for this Weather concerns and fuel conservation with increases in unpleasant task". speed restricted became a major frustration as the ship was Vic Jefferv looks back at a rather interesting incident in the RAN's history as it was the start of our Navy's interest in The problem of the ship icing up was of major concern and confined to a maximum of 13 knots. the Southern Ocean, which continues today In one form or another. addressed with teams being organised with suitable chipping Finally Heard Island was reached early on the morning of The last few years have seen the Royal Australian Navy suicide aircraft strikes and gunfire hits as well as surviving tools and shovels to reduce top weight, in addition some 7 August with the weather conditions preventing a landing at Atlas Cove that day. venture south into the bleak and storm swept Southern Ocean numerous aerial attacks. sponsons high on the superstructure were "decked in" so that Almost 24 hours later at 0630 on the following day. with on rescue missions and patrolling for illegal fishermen. The new aircraft carrier HMAS SYDNEY (III) had not snow would not collect in them and provision was made for the true wind blowing WSW 34 knots, a motor cutter was It commenced in January. 1996 when the guided-missile long before assumed the role of flagship with AUSTRALIA, the supply of hot sea water on deck to thaw out ice which may prepared for turning out and lowering. By 0700 the wind was frigate HMAS DARWIN, commanded by CMDR Davyd now mainly relegated to training duties, wearing the flag on form around the boat's davits and slips, etc. SE by West at 22 knots with conditions at Atlas Cove Thomas, was crash-sailed from HMAS STIRLING in Western the odd occasion when SYDNEY was away on deployments. Other than providing additional radiators and ensuing that appearing satisfactory from seaward despite the visible Australia to rescue French yachtswoman Isabclle Autisier On 26 July. 1950. the I0.(MK) ton HMAS AUSTRALIA the water-tightness of all scuttles and other openings was approach of a cloudbank from which steady snow was falling. from her disabled yacht. was anchored in Jervis Bay on the southern New South Wales efficient, there was little that could be done in the living The cutter was slipped at 0735 and the wind decreased Virtually 12 months to the day. sister-ship HMAS coast, having recently sailed from Sydney on the completion quarters. Mopping up water as a result of below decks further and close in off the cove is was negligible with snow ADELAIDE, commanded by CAPT Raydon Gates, also of a refit and long leave period. condensation ("sweating") became a continuous task in some falling. This continued until when the boat returned 0905 crash-sailed from HMAS STIRLING to carry one of the The heavy cruiser was a hive of activity as a result of the messdecks. Sea boats were turned in to safeguard against during which time two medical officers and some stores had greatest rescues in the annals of maritime history when it refit and with an unparalleled long period of rain, the general heavy seas and gable roofs had been fitted to the motor cutters been landed and Dr Udovikoff medevaced. successfully rescued two solo yachtsman. Frenchman Thierry maintenance and appearance of the ship was in an The plan was to head to approximate position 40 degrees Dubois and then Englishman. Tony Bullimorc. unsatisfactory shape. Every available man was therefore being (X)' S. 84 degrees 20' E. at 16 knots and then direct to Heard Since then the frigate HMAS ANZAC and the guided- employed aloft, on the upper deck and over the side in Island at 12 knots with this considered the best option for fuel missile frigates HMAS NEWCASTLE and HMAS maintenance work and in painting. The ship was at eight margins. CANBERRA have ventured into the treacherous icy Southern hours' notice for steam. Conditions were not as trying as had been expected as Ocean to patrol, and with some success, apprehend illegal HMAS AUSTRALIA'S commanding officer. CAPT G.C. AUSTRALIA encountered a series of "fronts" in a low fishermen seeking the highly prized Patagonian Toothfish. Oldham, was advised at 1445 local time that the ship may be pressure system with rising steep, short seas, reaching a Venturing into these horrendous conditions brings back required for a mercy mission to Heard Island in the Southern maximum height of 8.5 metres necessitating reductions in memories of another era when the veteran heavy cruiser Ocean to medevac a scientist, Dr Udovikoff. who was speed, ultimately down to eight knots. Winds of Force 9 were HMAS AUSTRALIA made a mercy dash south in vastly suffering from appendicitis. the normal maximum, but squalls of Force 11 were different circumstances in 1950. Immediately all onboard maintenance work and painting encountered. Five years after World War Two and in her twilight years, were suspended, steam was ordered and preparations were On 1 August speed was slowly increased in steps until the the veteran former RAN flagship HMAS AUSTRALIA (II) made to make the ship ready for sea. following morning the ship was once again steaming at 16 had one final battle to fight - against the most powerful Shortly afterwards Naval Board signals were received, knots on a westerly course. The ship had been in contact with adversary of them all - the forces of nature. detailing the mission and requesting CAPT Oldham to sail his Heard Islands since 31 July receiving weather reports from HMAS AUSTRALIA had seen more action against the ship for Melbourne. AUSTRALIA weighed anchor at 1810 that station. Marion Island and Amsterdam. The Melbourne The heavy cmiscr HMAS AUSTRALIA (H) leaving Garden Island in Sydney. Her mercy dash to the Southern Ocean had to be done mindful of Weather Bureau provided daily Antarctic weather reports to Germans. Japanese and Vichy French than any other RAN and proceeded at 22 knots for Port Melbourne, berthing at the the fact that the RAN had no replenishment at sea vessels to help with the ship in World War II. She had sustained numerous kamika/e Outer Princes Pier at 1730 the following day. HMAS AUSTRALIA. rescue operation. (RAN Historical Section) VOL. 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 7 History shows this proved to be the only opportunity in days where the weather abated long enough to allow the boat transfer. 2015 Despite being weakened from his prolonged ordeal. Dr Udovikoff was able to walk to HMAS AUSTRALIA'S sick bay w ith the assistance of two medical officers. Mission accomplished. HMAS AUSTRALIA, nursing her Speech fuel reserves, rode out several storms as the ship accomplished moderate speeds on the long voyage north to Fremantle w here Dr Udovikoff was safely landed. It is interesting to compare AUSTRALIA'S marathon trip south in those early post-war days when the RAN did not possess a replenishment ship and the availability of helicopters. In his report CAPT Oldham spoke of a ship the length of HMAS AUSTRALIA. 630 feet <192.02 metres), being HMAS AUSTRALIA (lit al anchor. Whilst in ihe Southern (Xean ihe crew- "probably too long to weather Antarctic Seas to the best had ID constantly monitor the amount of ice that huill up on the ship and advantage". chip it away. (RAN Historical Scctionl CAPT Oldham's other main concerns were fuel reserves Shortly after HMAS AUSTRALIA paid-off on August 31. and icing on the ship's superstructure and upper deck, 1954 for disposal after a distinguished 26 year career and was referring to ice forming on the director tower and the top three sold to British Iron & Steel Corporation (Salvage) Ltd on 25 metres of the non-steaming funnel as well as on the bridge January. 1955. structure, turret faces and guard-rails. Two months later on 26 March. 1955 the former flagship HMAS AUSTRALIA resumed her training role with her was towed out of Port Jackson by the Dutch tug RODE ZEE. last major activity being as part of the Royal Escort for the Two other tugs joined the tow and. sailing via the Sue/. Canal, By George Kaplan visit of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip in I9S4. Fittingly they reached Barrow in Furness in the UK on 5 July. From she briefly wore the flag of Rear Admiral R. Dow ling for one there AUSTRALIA was towed to the Clyde where she was The Invincible class aireraft carrier HMAS AUSTRALIA leaving Fremantle lo participate in the 3rd 'Saddam War' in the Persian Gulf. last time as flagship of the Royal Australian Navy. broken-up. AUSTRALIA and her AV-XB Harrier II Plus aircraft proved a m«>st valuable capability to Ihe Coalition of the Milling. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Australian Government's decision not to replace the aircraft carrier HMAS MELBOURNE. To mark the occasion George Kaplan has cast his eye back to the past and forward to the future to sec what might have been had the then Hawkc Government 'taken the other fork' in the road, and had the Royal Navy decided to sell HMS INVINCIBLE to the RAN. His analysis is in the form of the future Chief of Navy's speech at HMAS AUSTRALIA'S (III) decommissioning. Obviously this article contains some fiction. "Ladies and Gentlemen. Distinguished Guests. Shipmates past ambition and former glories the requirement was seen as a and present, honoured colleagues, welcome to this necessary one in Navy. Despite the objections of those momentous, and sad day. advocates of air power, submarines, missile armed gunboats Today we gather here to decommission a great warship, or any number of other competing pet projects who derided the pride of the Royal Australian Navy, the fleet flagship and (he acquisition as an enormous waste of resources, the aircraft earner. HMAS AUSTRALIA. decision was made to take up the British Governments offer to For 30 years AUSTRALIA has been an integral part of the sell HMS INVINCIBLE to Australia. fleet, through peace and war. in times of national triumph and Following her participation in the Falklands conflict, and national disaster. not without some arm-twisting on the part of the Australian Looking back today, over three decades of valued service, government on their English counterparts. HMS it is hard to believe that there were dissenting voices raised INVINCIBLE was handed over to the RAN on a bleak winters about Ihe purchase of the then HMS INVINCIBLE following day at Portsmouth in 1985. I make note of the weather in her service in the Falklands conflict. particular, as it was also the first sea posting for a wet behind To put those voices into context I hope you will allow me the ear midshipman fresh out of HMAS CRESWELL. I was to take you back lo those times and walk you through the that midshipman, and it marked my first acquaintance with a history of her career in RAN service. ship with which I was to remain intimately involved In the early I980's the flagship, the aircraft carrier HMAS throughout my career. MELBOURNE was showing her age. A product of the Second With appropriate pomp and ceremony the White Ensign, World War. the old lady had been extensively upgraded which had flown for five years, was hauled down on HMS several times to allow her to operate progressively larger, INVINCIBLE and the Australian White Ensign was hoisted heavier and faster aircraft, but had reached the limits of what on HMAS AUSTRALIA. could be achieved on a design more than 35 years old. The ship that we took delivery of was a different ship in A search was instituted for a replacement for many regards from that which had so triumphantly reclaimed MELBOURNE, with the Royal Navy's INVINCIBLE class the Falklands three years before. Gone was the Sea Dart The Anzac frigate HMAS ANZAC with snow covered hills of Heard Island in the background. ANZAC is one of the most recent visitors to this lonely carrier satisfying the criteria of availability and cost. missile system, the British radars and ESM. the British Southern Ocean Island. Her mission at the time was to search for and apprehend trawlers fishing illegally in Australia's EEZ around the island. The RAN Despite a vocal minority within and outside of Defence messing and berthing systems and most noticeably, the Sea has been a frequent visitor lo in the Southern Ocean in recent years conducting Search and Rescue operations and fisheries patrols. (RAN) who saw- an aircraft carrier as a nothing more than a symbol of Harrier fighter aircraft that had performed so well in 1982. 8 VOL. 65 NO. I THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. I 31 Following her arrival in Australia in early 1986. HMAS AUSTRALIA soon settled into the routine of exercises and deployments up top' which characterised what in retrospect seems a quieter, simpler age. measured against today's times of challenges and confrontations. In particular she was able to take her place in the Navy's 75th anniversary celebrations as the Fleet Flagship, a role she was to repeat in the Bicentennial Celebrations of 1988. Numerous RIMPAC and Tandem Thrust exercises had demonstrated the capabilities of a ship of her size and versatility, with up to 6(H) troops able to be embarked for short periods, and landed in massed helicopter landings, either from her own Sea King helicopters, or embarked Black Hawk and Chinook helicopters. One lesson that was taken to heart was that no matter how capable AUSTRALIA was as a helicopter carrier, the HMAS AUSTRALIA leaving Portsmouth in ihc UK alter her modification operation of fixed wing aircraft from AUSTRALIA multiplied to Australian requirements. Note the addition of the Mk-15 Phalanx and the her effectiveness and the effectiveness of the fleet many times deletion ol the Sea Dart launcher. This modification proved so successful that the RN convened its three Invincible class carriers to a similar standard over. As a Flag Lieutenant to the then Chief of Naval Staff. I had The defence budget of the time had not been able to stretch accompanied him on a visit to AUSTRALIA in company with to cover the purchase of the Sea Harriers for which the newly the Minister for Defence to the waters off Hawaii. The icy Heads for the first time after her purchase from the UK in 1985. commissioned AUSTRALIA had been designed. Thus for the purpose of the trip was to watch a trial in which a squadron of A soon to be familiar sight. HMAS AUSTRALIA transits through S< (Brian Morrison. Warships and Mar r Corps Museum Int. Franklin. Tas) first.six years of her RAN service AUSTRALIA operated only United States Marine Corps AV-8B Harrier aircraft 'cross- helicopters, initially Sea King and Wessex helicopters, the decked' and operated from AUSTRALIA during the RIMPAC Minister that the decision was made to introduce the new AV- Once on station, AUSTRALIA proved invaluable in latter eventually replaced by Scahawk helicopters in the late 2(MX) exercise. 8B II "Super-Harrier" into RAAF service for operations from maintaining the maritime blockade on Iraq, with her embarked AUSTRALIA. The AV-8B II was more favoured then the 1980s. I note with pleasure the presence within the audience today troops taking part in the seizure of several ships that British Sea Harrier as it was new. in production and had many The decision was made thai HMAS AUSTRALIA would of US Marine Corp General Chuck Grcgson. today the attempted to run the blockade. Once hostilities began, the parts and systems common to the RAAF's F/A-18 Hornet, operate similar equipment to the rest of the existing RAN commander of US Marine Corps Aviation, but back then a carrier's embarked helicopters and troops were heavily such as the APG-65 radar and weapon systems. fleet, hence US radars and electronics replaced the original Marine Corp pilot taking part in the exercise. Chuck and I hit involved in rescuing downed allied aircrew in Kuwait and In retrospect, what seems a completely common sense equipment, while the space made available by the removal 01 it off rather well, as numerous hangovers acquired during runs southern Iraq. decision was anything but. with many elements within the the Sea Dart missile launcher and associated systems allowed ashore in Pearl Harbour will attesi. A friendship that I am In total nine-allied aircrew were rescued during defence establishment opposed to the acquisition. The costs additional deck parking space and storage facilities. So happy to say continues to this day. as this morning's headache operations, which saw AUSTRALIA operating in some of the involved in the purchase of AUSTRALIA had already caused successful was this refit (hat the RN followed suit in the mid- after a late night spent reminiscing will attest. most Northerly reaches of the Gulf, at times perilously close delay's in acquiring and bringing into service the new 1990's. convening \Rk ROYAL, ILLUSTRIOUS and the Chuck succeeded in converting me to the benefits of to Iraq missile batteries. COLLINS class submarines and the AN7.AC class light replacement for INVINCIBLE. INDOMITABLE, to a similar VSTOL operations from AUSTRALIA, and his squadron's frigates, as well as impacting on Army and Air Force budgets. The actions of the Army helicopter crews and ground configuration. operations made such an impression on both CNS and the troops in these operations were recognised with numerous The minutes of the meetings of the Service Chiefs of the time barely hint at the at-times acrimonious debates over decorations for gallantry. In addition to Australian recognition funding priorities, with each arguing their case passionately the Governments of the US, United Kingdom. France and and forcefully. Eventually however, priorities were Saudi Arabia also conferred decorations upon these troops for established, and with the backing of then Defence Minister their at times extraordinary gallantry under fire in rescuing Kim Bea/ley. Cabinet was persuaded to fund several increases these downed pilots. to the defence budget, allowing programs to continue, albeit at AUSTRALIA also provided a mobile 'gas station' to a slower rate than first hoped. USMC AV-8Bs running low on fuel from combat operations. The decision to have the RAAF operate the new aircraft In this role she saved three AV-8Bs from ditching in to the was not arrived at without substantial misgivings on both Persian Gulf. sides, however in retrospect, the decision has paved the way In addition for her operations in the lead up to the conflict for closer inter-service cooperation. Nowhere is this better and the actual operations in 1991, HMAS AUSTRALIA was demonstrated than by the introduction of both the VSTOL and awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, the first such award to conventional version of the new F-35 JSF into RAAF service a RAN ship since the Vietnam War. this year. I notice many familiar faces in Air Force blue It was certainly a vindication of the decision to acquire amongst today's audience, and look forward to catching up AUSTRALIA, and with the initial deployment of AV-8B with many of you later. Harrier II plus aircraft on board in 1993 the Navy returned to The carefully planned introduction into service of the AV- a capability it had not had since MELBOURNE 8B Harrier II plus was completely thrown into disarray by the decommissioned in 1982. invasion of Kuwait by its larger neighbour Iraq. The government committed forces to an international coalition to AUSTRALIA did not have long to wait before her new air liberate Kuwait, then known as Operation Desert Storm, but wing was in action, with the ship participating in operations in today referred to by historians as the First Saddam War. support of UN operations throughout our region. With no fixed wing component available. AUSTRALIA In Somalia AUSTRALIA alternated with TOBRUK in embarked troops from the Army's SAS. 3 RAR and Air supplying the forces ashore with a command and control post, as well as a much needed source of rest and relaxation for the The RAN Flagship HMAS AUSTRALIA (III) being towed into Sydney's Circular Quay to participate in the RAN's 75th Anniversary celebrations. Note the Defence regiment's, together with Army Black Hawk and set absence of the Harriers. It wasn't until after the 1st 'Saddam War' that the US AV-8B Harrier II Plus was purchased. (Brian Morrison. Warships and Marine sail as flagship of the Australian commitment to the UN members of the Australian forces deployed there to help avert Corps Museum Int. Franklin. Tas) operations. famine. 10 VOL 65 NO. 2 THF. NAVY THK NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 II Several aircrew of these helicopters were recognised for of medical treatment, the Navy's largest aid to the civil their bravery during these rescues, both by the military and the community tasking since Operation 'Navy Help' following wider civilian community. Cyclone Tracy's devastation of Darwin in 1975. In 2006 the United Nations imposed economic sanctions In 2010 the long simmering dispute between the People's against North Korea, in response lo that nations testing of its Republic of China and numerous other countries over first nuclear weapon and subsequent threats to use further sovereignty of the Spratley island chain boiled over, with nuclear weapons on South Korea if it did not receive Beijing declaring the entire South China Sea to be Chinese substantial economic aid and the withdrawal of US forces territorial waters and threatening ships travelling through the stationed in the Peninsular. area with unspecified hut dire consequences. Already under limited sanctions regarding travel, cultural The UN Security Council declared thai the Chinese action and sporting contacts due to its withdrawal from the Nuclear was contrary to international law. and numerous nations Non Proliferation Treaty in 2003. the UN Security Council despatched naval forces to the area. supported the imposition of new sanctions unanimously and AUSTRALIA, leading a major task force, departed for the called upon member states to provide support to implementing area and for several months escorted numerous Australian. effective multinational sanction enforcement. American and Japanese flagged merchant ships through the As part of those sanctions HMAS AUSTRALIA, having area. recently completed a major refit, led a RAN task force North This was despite constant and at times dangerous to assist in enforcing the UN sanctions. While tensions harassment by Chinese submarines, surface ships and aircraft. escalated. AUSTRALIA, together with the frigate's SYDNEY. Several 'near misses' were reported, in a situation which was STUART. PARRAMATTA and NEWCASTLE look part in reminiscent of the Cold War near hostilities at sea between the the blockade of North Korea's West Coast. Soviet Union and the West. In fact AUSTRALIA was ihe first unit lo give warning of For almost two months the world watched spellbound as a more active North Korean response when one of her naval forces from China on one side, and a host of nations on Seahawk helicopters detected a North Korean submarine the other, stared each other down. The embarkation of aggressively manoeuvring into a possible firing position on international television news crews aboard many of the the carrier. AUSTRALIA'S Seahawks actively tracked the vessels ensured that the world was made aware of the Chinese Korean submarine for more than 48 hours, while avoiding its provocations, and helped ensure that world opinion remained own moves towards the Australian task force. firmly against the Chinese actions. HMAS AUSTRALIA in company with HMAS NF.WCASTLF. (right) and HMAS WESTRALIA (ah). The group was on its way to contribute to the 3rd Following the North Korean government's ultimatum to Together with other task forces from the US. Japan. Saddam War" in 2003. lift sanctions within 72 hours or risk all out war on the Singapore. France and the UK. AUSTRALIA and her escorts demonstrated to the Chinese leadership that their actions were In the Solomon Islands the helicopters of the ship's air The third and final Saddam War in 2003 saw Peninsular. AUSTRALIA'S AV-8B II aircraft provided air not acceptable to the international community. group were kept husy collecting foreign nationals from AUSTRALIA once again despatched to the Persian Gulf. defence suppression in support of the combined US/ South In late 2010. the Chinese withdrew their ships from the throughout the islands for evacuation in the face of sustained Once hostilities commenced the air group took part in strikes Korean commando strikes on the North's nuclear weapons South China Sea. in a signal that they did not warn to press the civil unrest. on Iraqi forces in Southern Iraq, and together with the RAAF storage facilities. Operation 'Imperative Eagle'. issue. In Bougainville HMAS AUSTRALIA provided a neutral Hornets deployed to the conflict provided air support to During this mission Squadron Leader Colin Wolfe scored meeting ground for the various warring factions to meet and Australian SAS forces engaged in the search for Iraq's the RAAF's first air-to-air kill since the Korean War when The use of naval power, carefully employed, had averted a try to agree to a return to peace on that divided island. weapons of mass destruction. several North Korean MiG-23 aircraft attempted to intercept crisis and resulted in a peaceful resolution to the situation. AUSTRALIA and her escorts returned home to news that the AUSTRALIA returned to the Solomon's again to provide Such was the benefit of having on call air support familiar the Australian aircraft. Chinese had adopted a more conciliatory tone, indicating that support to peace monitoring forces trying to bridge the gap with the operating procedures of the SAS that no Australian Meanwhile. RAN Seahawk helicopters from between hostile segments of the islands populace. they would accept international arbitration on the Spratley's ground casualties were suffered while Australian aircraft AUSTRALIA and NEWCASTLE were successful in issue. The second Saddam War. popularised by the media as provided support to the SAS operations. prosecuting and sinking the North Korean Romeo class Operation Desert Fox. saw AV-8B Harrier II strike aircraft Following another refit in 2011. her last. AUSTRALIA Regrettably, two aircraft were lost to Iraqi air defences submarine GREAT LEADER IV as it approached the RAN operating from AUSTRALIA'S deck in coalition strikes triumphantly led the Australian Fleet, and more than 75 ships during these operations, with Flight Lieutenant Damien task force. against Iraqi military targets, in an attempt to force Saddam of 31 other nations into Sydney Harbour for the l(X)th Johnson killed in action when his AV-8B II was shot down For the remainder of the three-month conflict, Hussein to allow UN weapons inspectors free reign to locate Anniversary celebrations on the granting of the tittle 'Royal while supporting allied forces engaged in combat with AUSTRALIA provided close air support strikes to United and destroy Iraq's weapons of mass destruction. armoured elements of the Iraqi Republican Guard south of Nations forces on the West Coast of the peninsular, until the RAAF aircraft carried out several hundred successful Baghdad. coup in Pyongyang which brought down the Stalinist regime, strikes against a wide range of Iraqi military targets during this bringing the war to a close. operation. In late 2005 AUSTRALIA'S crew was urgently recalled from leave and the ship was crash-sailed from Sydney to assist In 2008 AUSTRALIA was despatched to the island of In 2000. AUSTRALIA landed her normal air wing to in the rescue of sailors participating in the Sydney to Hobart Western Samoa, which had been hit hard by a massive tropical transport large numbers of Army helicopters lo East Timor, cyclone. Cyclone Nyota had left most of the island's where they proved invaluable in helping establish the Interfet yacht race. Struck by the most ferocious storm ever recorded infrastructure in ruins and the islands people in dire peril with force. She remained on station off Dili for more than a month, in a Sydney to Hobart, more than 50% of the races participants no medical facilities or clean drinking water. prov iding a base for maintenance of the Army's Black Hawk were forced to call for assistance and rescue. and Chinook helicopters, and launched the aerial component AUSTRALIA sailed with a minimum crew, bolstered by Embarking additional medical supplies and personnel. of the ADF landing in ihe enclave of Oecussi, the largest ADF transfers from other ships, and embarked her helicopter AUSTRALIA'S departed within 12 hours of the initial amphibious landing since the Second World War. compliment as she battled her way through mountainous seas warning order and made her best speed to the islands in Her command and control facilities were first class and past Jcrvis Bay and south towards the stricken yachtsmen. company with HMAS SUCCESS. Arriving off the island proved invaluable lo the then Commander of Interfet. MAJ Her presence, close to the main area of damaged and AUSTRALIA'S medical facilities were immediately fully GEN Peter Cosgrove. sinking yachts, allowed her Seahawk. Sea King and Super stretched dealing with the large numbers of injured, while the AUSTRALIA was judged by Interfet command lo have Seasprite helicopters to spend more time aloft, responding to ships helicopters provided the only method of travelling Demonstrating the flexibility of a modem carrier, here AUSTRALIA'S crew contributed markedly to the success of the UN sanctioned mayday calls. Thanks to their actions, more than 130 across the island. hoist aboard a USN Seal assault boat, lent to the Australian SAS for Combat operation and once again had convincingly proven the value yachtsmen were rescued from the sea. and from certain In total AUSTRALIA'S medical and surgical facilities Search and Rescue duties, during operations in the North of the Persian Gulf of sea power to the success of land operations. drowning. dealt with more than 5.000 patients requiring different levels during the 1st •Saddam War'. 6 VOI..6 5 NO. 4 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 4 13 A RAAF AV-8B Hamer II Plus accelerates down AUSTRALIA'S deck towards the ski jump. The AV-8B Harrier II Plus was chosen for iis commonality with the RAAF's F/A-18 Hornet. Ii look the full array of Hornet weapons including AMRAAM. AGM-65 Maverick TV guided missiles and Harpoon anti-ship mivsiles. Ausiraliun Navy". For u week she was ihe centre of a major For the many thousands of sailors, soldiers and airmen HMAS ADELAIDE at speed. Sea Control is a vital element of any campaign planning and the RAN will increasingly rely on the FFG to supply this celehraiion of ihe Navy's role in the Nation's history, played who served aboard her. there will always be something special capability even though the FFG upgrade program is cmharrassingly overdue. (RAN) out on the worlds television screens. about HMAS AUSTRALIA. She had a reputation as a happy Following these celebrations AUSTRALIA took part in a ship, and the years I spent aboard during my career I count as In part 8 of our presentation of the RAN's new Maritime Doctrine we detail the final Chapters 11 and 12 on Maritime major exercise program off the East Coast of Australia w ith exceedingly happ> ones. Campaigning and Future Australian Maritime Forces. The document was written by the Seapower Centre and has ships from around the world. This culminated in the majestic I was fortunate to command AUSTRALIA for two and a been reproduced in THE NAVY, with the Centre's approval. Riven its importance to readers of THE NAVY, Australians site of AUSTRALIA leading into Sydney Harbour six aircraft half years, from 2005 to 2007. and w ill always see that time in and to the Navy League in general. We trust it has been informative. carriers from the United States. Italy. France. Spain. Brazil command as one of the highlights of my naval life. and the United Kingdom in a triumphant display of naval Tomorrow, we will return here to Fleet Base East to • How should the assigned forces be applied within might. Chapter 11 commission the new HMAS AUSTRALIA (IV). fresh from given constraints to best achieve the end-state? In January 2012 Australia was engaged in work ups off the her delivery voyage from the builders in the United Kingdom, MARITIME CAMPAIGNING Campaign plans must be adaptable. They may be phased to Eastern Australian coast when she was urgently despatched to but today we pause to give thanks for a ship which has come allow for the sequential handling of multiple tasks or resource Pv>rt Moresby. Following the increasing disintegration of that to symbolise the Royal Australian Navy, both at home and CAMPAIGN PLANNING limitations: may contain a general concept for the entire countries governing institutions, a complete breakdown in law across the world campaign as well as a specific plan for the campaign's initial and order had occurred The ADF's definition of a campaign is: phase: and. as a plan never survives contact with the In war and peace, in times of natural disaster and With the rioters, which included members of the PNG 'A controlled series of simultaneous or sequential adversary, planning branches and sequels. celebration. AUSTRALIA (III) has played a central role, and armed forces and Police, in possession of the main airports, operations designed to achie\'e an operational commander's All these things must be taken into account when planning on this, her final day as a commissioned unit of the Royal evacuation of foreign nationals by air was not possible, and a objective, normally within a given time and space'. a campaign, no matter whether the focus of that campaign is Australian Navy, we pause to give thanks for the outstanding sea born response was needed. Campaign planning will co-ordinate the actions of air. piimarily or even wholly maritime in nature or whether it serv ice she has provided the nation. AUSTRALIA embarked troops as she steamed past land, maritime and special forces as well as orchestrating the involves land or air operations as well. Environments cannot Thank you." Townsville and upon her arrival at Port Moresby, was able to military effort with the other instruments of national power be isolated from each other nor become wholly bound up in land the troops and restore some measure of calm to the within the theatre. Campaign planners must consider the their unique conditions and circumstances. That said, skilful use of the maritime env ironment and maritime forces affords situation. Her embarked troops were able to capture the main national strategic end-state and ensure that the method chosen the campaign commander the opportunity for great flexibility airport and allow shuttle evacuation flights of RAAF Hercules to achieve the military strategic end-state does not negate the across the whole spectrum of conflict. transports from Port Moresby to the mainland. over arching national post-conflict objectives. This relation of Maritime operations allow a commander to target an Unfortunately the situation in Papua New Guinea has not military actions to political ends is fundamental. adversary's vulnerabilities, such that they become decisive yet been resolved, with Australian forces still on the ground It follows from this that campaign planning is a dynamic paints in achieving operational objectives and therefore the there as part of a UN sanctioned peacekeeping mission. and continuous process incorporating all the elements of required end-state. The commander is afforded the In mid 2012 it was announced that AUSTRALIA would be operational design. Campaign planning requires sweeping opportunity to control the tempo of operations, under certain decommissioned in 2015. following 30 years of outstanding vision and understanding of the relationship between strategic circumstances, joining or breaking contact with an adversary RAN service. At the same time a decision was made that a ends, operational ways and tactical means. It must account for when and where required, and focusing combai power against replacement would be procured, a sister ship to the United the adversary's reactions and answer five questions: the adversary's critical vulnerabilities. EfTectiv • intelligence, Kingdom's new 60.000 tonne CVF class aircraft carriers • What military end state will achieve the strategic command, control and communications are essential elements would be launched in 2015. objectives? for the optimum employment of maritime forces. The Today we bid farewell to HMAS AUSTRALIA, ringing • What ways arc most likely to establish this end state? commander can exploit the nature of maritime power in the the curtain down on a illustrious caret r spanning three and a Four Army CH-47D Chinook helicopters land on HMAS AUSTRALIA tor campaign to get inside an adversary's decision cycle, keeping joint training exercises. The Chinooks were a common visitor to the carrier • Are the forces assigned adequate to achieve the desired the adversary off balance and pressing forward to achieve the half decades, one in which she has rendered sterling service to as ihe aircraft, unlike the Army's other helicopters, were already marinised end state? the UK and Australia. as well as having folding blades. • What risks are acceptable? strategic end state. 26 14 VOL. 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 There are many factors which need to be considered in the endurance ol human resources availability of weapon equipment fits and the development of agreed procedures may adversary of just one submarine of relatively limited planning process. Military resources and capabilities are finite reloads: be required to allow the successful integration of all units capability would require an amphibious force to be and must be concentrated to achieve the aim. The operational • availability ol other vital, consumable stores: and within a task force. The greater the degree of interoperability, provided with a comprehensive anti-submarine escort, planning imperative is to define the sustainahilitv • geography particularly in communications, the less duplication of including surface ships and embarked helicopters, requirements and the trade-offs which will be needed in It is rarely possible to plan in detail beyond ihe networks will be required and thus ihe less demand there will supported by maritime patrol aircraft. capability. To achieve this focus, clear statements of the first phase of a campaign because the outcome ol thai be on the limited bandwidth available. Air Forces mission and the commander's intent are required. Ideal!), phase will shape subsequent phases Part ol the planning It is important to consider issues relating to air forces there should be unity of command over all resources, process must be the consideration of contingencies Once the Intelligence alongside the seaborne factors when considering force including logistics, although it is unlikely thai the latier will be plan has been set in motion, the operational level Intelligence provides fundamental information about the requirements for campaign planning, fhey may include: achieved at the operational level. commander must constantly study the unfolding situation, adversary and the operating environment which is essential Where command and control arrange nents are complex- revise and reorder the plan as necessary Maintaining for the success of the campaign. Assessments of the • Range limitations, the availability of air assets, the and ihe reality is that they will be in both joint and combined flexibility is the key to success. It is essential that concurrent adversary 's capabilities, intentions and decision making endurance of aircrew and the effect of weather - both operations of any scale-there must be close cooperation and and contingency planning be initiated early in the planning • mean that they can be worked into the planning process in the operational area, en route to lhat area and at the co-ordination of activities to achieve the most efficient use of cycle. and such factors as the adversary 's centres of gravity, operating base - may affect the availability of air support. available assets and accomplish the commander's aim. Ii is ih«* objectives and end-stales properly understood. principle of co-operation which is the key essential element. OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS Effective mechanisms will be • Prolonged high intensity air operations require large Good will and working together can overcome many Information required to ensure that intelligence supplies of aviation fuel and ammunition, which may difficulties in operations. Ihe single most important factor in a maritime operation. assessments are developed and well need to be moved by sea. particularly it the especially one involving diverse joint or combined assets, is communicated to all appropriate aircraft are working from .1 forward operating base information flow, which requires suitable CAMPAIGN TEMPO levels of command throughout • fuel used by aircraft in transiting to operating areas I he tempo nf an operation is ihe rale at which events are communications. C ommunication is not only the campaign. reduces the time available for operational tasking driven. Generally forces thai can maintain high tempo, with having radios on correct and agreed - hence a seaborne force's inlcresi in organic air frequencies. It involves procedures lhal all fast decision making cycles, can seize the initiative and lake capabilities or, failing lhat. well located forward advantage of uncertainly lo exploit the weaknesses of ihe players can use, allowing compatible operating bases for support aircraft. enemy. Maritime forces arc ideally suited to support high message and information evchangc. j ^ Control of Ihe air is an important tempo operations because of their mobility and flexibility. Developments in data links and the use of f j j| prerequisite in any To achieve this high tempo, keep the initiative and exploit commercially available systems are •>• ® » ^ maritime operation. success, an operational commander must be prepared to rapidly reducing the tyranny of distance Modern devolve decision making, allowing subordinate commanders and increasing the ^ I freedom of action The operational level commander must ? aircraft arc increasingly also be aware that tempo may be limited, not by the - * ' -tU endurance, susiainability and survivability of ihe unit, multi-role and but by the physical therefore may be endurance , multi tasked, which of the crew to may result in Ihe campaign commander allocating such scarce DECISIVE resources to higher priority tasking. POINTS aval Forces Land rorees In the conduct of a campaign ^cr. From a naval perspective the following I here are also considerations for land fcuces ID relation to consideration must be given to ^W^^^T^JPB® operational characteristics mayvneed to be addressed in speed wiih maritime campaign planning The support of Army operations identifying an adversary's iritnal developing a maritime campaign concept: which data can be transferred. This has Irom the sea is affected by the following factors: vulnerabilities and attacking them while • Units may require several days to deploy to shifted the emphasis from providing the information, which is • Availability of ships, including naval and commercial protecting one's own. in the maritime environment, although a prospective joint force area of operations (JFAO). in most instances achievable, to managing the information vessels, capable of transporting troops and equipment the loss of a mission essential unit such as a transport ship in depending on distance and readiness. efficiently This is increasing significantly the information • Capacity and configuration of available tonnage-it may an amphibious task group may bnng wiih it outright failure lo • Diverse environmental factors require special available to the commander and to individual units, thus not be possible to load Army units such that they can accomplish the mission, the loss of other specific capabilities consideration to deal wiih the range of bathometric and improving their awareness of the baltlespace and their ability be unloaded in a tactically ready sequence. within the force may create a critical vulnerability and expose meteorological conditions which may be encountered, to operate within it Furthermore, the same developments arc • Speed and v ulnerability of selected tonnage. including: suitability of hydrographic data, shallow and its component units to unreasonable risk and warrant aborting increasing the ability of all units to contribute to the • Availability of resources such as cranage, fighterage. confined water operations and climatic variation and the mission. Indeed the loss of any major combatant may achievement of baulespace awareness. Maritime forces can landing craft, helicopters and any other ship-to-shore meteorological extremes. prove 10 be a decisive point and may affect future missions as provide considerable real time and near real time input to a assets required to embark and disembark troops and • Prolonged, isolated operations will reduce the combat that ship could represent a significant portion of ihe overall joint commander's operational information and intelligence equipment. pictures effectiveness of maritime forces through the capability of the force. Awareness of such critical • The suitability of Army equipment for sea transport degradation of personnel and equipment capabilities. vulnerabilities is cmcial to effective offensive and defensive Even the smallest warship has at least some interest in and operations from ships Consequently, attention must be given to factors such operational planning. Vulnerabilities may include what is occurring within a radius of several hundred miles • Offensive support resources. as forward support, fatigue and weapon and hull • units capable of delivering combat power: The area of interest to a task group commander could and does • Endurance of embarked personnel and equipment- • ihe willpower and cohesion of the forces and their easily extend to a radius of a thousand miles or more around endurance. sending troops to sea and keeping them at sea can have commanders: ihe force and the requirements for maritime air support and • Damage sustained by a major naval unit may make it considerable effects on their fitness and battle operational intelligence will lake thai mlo consideration The • command, control and communications capability. necessary to redeploy thai unit to a location with a readiness il mailers are not managed carefully key factors to consider are not jusi distance, but weather, • intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets, suitable naval repair infrastructure. • Defensive support resources (especially for air relative velocity and the engagement ranges ol own and • access to ashore support for minor war vessels. • Limited availability of assets and the complexity of warfare). enemy lorces • replenishment ships in a deployed force. some maritime operations will invariably require direct • air warfare assets, including land based ;iir: phvsteal In the event of combined and coalition operations, special allocation of scarce resources by the campaign The newest ol the RAN s AII/JCS. HMAS STliARr while on so» iruils off commander. For example, the possession by an Melbourne STVART hxs since been commissioned and is now home ported inWA (Tenix) I III wvv Maritime support to Army operations can also include continuous fire support operations required to reammunition • understanding of the military conditions for success focus will be on enhancing the manoeuvrist characteristics of support to special forces and naval gunfne support as well as after about three days. Ships endeavour to remain fuelled and and end state. the land campaign by intelligent application of the principal land attack in the future. Additionally, in a maritime stored to the maximum practicable levels to maintain-the • assessment of the threat, attributes of maritime power, in particular its ability to campaign, the Army may be involved in aspects such as maximum flexibility for tasking. • the forces available and their readiness. enhance manoeuvre and apply force where it is least expected. logistics-over-the-shore support and the securing of forward Deployed units may be resupplied from an atloat support • the time available to respond, and Rotation bases, for air or naval forces, or to deny such bases to an force, or from a Logistic Support Element (LSE) ashore. • the likely duration of a campaign and the rotation of Forward-deployed maritime forces can mark their effective adversary. Generally, the smaller and less sophisticated the ship, the forces to maintain capability. capability in terms of weeks dr months. Nevertheless, despite greater its reliance on external support. Some small vessels, A robust command and control system, together with the the considerable inherent powers of endurance of both Areas of Operations such as landing craft or mine warfare units, may require their potential duration of the campaign, the need to sustain or personnel and systems, operational relief is required at One planning tool that can cause considerable difficulties is own dedicated support ships. In any sustained campaign, the increase force levels and logistic support arrangements will intervals, which will be more frequent in higher intensity that of the Joint Force Area of Operations (JFAO). This is LSE will become vital, particularly as it will include a also have a profound influence on force generation. operations. Personnel will generally show signs of strain fundamentally a land concept that has moved for many good maintenance unit which can assist with maintaining or Deployment before their ships, provided that the latter have arrived on reasons into the joint and combined environment. If such an repairing the equipment which will inevitably become Deployment to a theatre of operations involves: station at high levels of maintenance readiness, but neither area, with its associated boundaries is established, it is vital defective with continuous use over time. If the deployment is • mounting, embarking and sailing the force from home will last indefinitely and longer periods on station will have that it be consistent with the tasks, assets and both primary and distant from maritime forces' normal operating bases, then the bases (although maritime forces can often be diverted progressively greater effects. A contingency of any duration secondary roles assigned by the commander. A fundamental LSE will require be forward deployed. directly from their current locations); will therefore require a well considered programme of rotation consideration in the assignment of Operating Areas is that of to allow rest, maintenance and refresher training. In Although built for the purpose ships normally form the • passage to the area of operations; and sea room - the space necessary to manoeuvre and engage an considering the commitment to operations, such core of an afloat support force, merchant ships can be taken up • transit and arrival in the theatre of operations in a adversary whose movement may be unrestricted. A balance considerations will be key to the determination of force levels from trade and adapted very quickly to meet specific naval posture appropriate to the threat and mission. has to be developed which will not compromise the integrity if a sustained and consistent presence is required. requirements. The most simple example of this may be the Coordination of the deployment will require careful of the mission or the tactical commander's freedom of action. conversion of a freighting oil tanker to include an underway planning and liaison with diplomatic posts, other civil Maritime Operating Areas will therefore necessarily be large Withdrawal replenishment capability. authorities and allied organisations. Force protection must be and they must - for both sea and air units - be constructed not The withdrawal of forces at the end of a successful campaign ensured, including the security of the bases from which the to inhibit operations not only in area but also in transit. will need to be planned as carefully as the deployment to the Preparations for a Campaign deployment is being mounted. Consideration must be given to Maritime operations can be seriously inhibited by area of operations. Moreover, if conditions for success have When mounting the maritime aspects of a campaign, the legal issues, selection of ROE and the use of civil transport. constraining sea room. not been achieved, and withdrawal is to be made in the face of commander will co-ordinate all activities to ensure the arrival The routeing of forces must be carefully organised to ensure continuing or escalating conflict, it will be even more of the force in theatre at a level of preparedness that will security and force protection during transit. Rules of Engagement problematical. There may be a need to increase combat power enhance the likelihood of a successful outcome. Elements of Rules of Engagement (ROE) are directions to operational and Sea Control Operations ashore to stabilise the situation before withdrawal can take preparedness include readiness, response times and tactical level commanders which delineate the constraints and Wherever the freedom of action of the maritime force is place. Command and control will be difficult and fragmented sustainahility. and a headquarters afloat may provide the most secure and possible freedoms in the application of force. Consideration of challenged and, in particular, as it approaches the area of capable communications to assist. There will also be a the requirements for ROE must commence at the start of the operations, there will be a requirement to establish levels of THE CAMPAIGN ITSELF requirement to provide protection, both for the maritime campaign planning process. They must be established only sea control that will be sufficient to ensure its protection and There are typically eight stages of a maritime campaign: forces supporting the withdrawal and for the forces being after a thorough appreciation of the situation has been to enable subsequent operations. Without sea control, the • identification of a crisis, withdrawn. Protection of a withdrawal, like a landing but in conducted. The Law of Armed Conflict codifies important ability of maritime forces to manoeuvre, concentrate for • force generation. offensive action, apply leverage, project power ashore and reverse, requires the establishment of the necessary levels of principles of international law and national control of military • deployment, deny the same to the opponent will be adversely constrained sea control. action is a fundamental requirement. At the operational level, • sea control operations. and hattlespce dominance will not have been achieved. that control is exercised through the military chain of • power projection. CONCLUSION command with the promulgation of ROE. Power Projection Operations • support to operations ashore. Maritime, air and land campaigns do not and cannot function Commanders are not permitted to exceed these levels of With the establishment of appropriate levels of sea control, • rotation, and wholly in isolation, but must be considered according to the delegation without higher command approval, but the right of maritime forces are able to project power ashore. Power • withdrawal. contribution which they can make to the required end state. projection can take a number of forms, including amphibious self-defence remains the implicit prerogative of every Furthermore, whether a campaign can be considered 10 be Identification of a Crisis operations, maritime air support and surface and sub-surface commanding officer or individual. ROE offer considerable primarily of one environment rather than another, it does not Initial indications that a crisis is developing will probably land attack. A robust command and control system that, in the scope to maritime operations through the ability of maritime follow-nor will it ever follow in the realities of future warfare- case of amphibious operations, must be capable of deploying forces to employ graduated levels of force and response. come from a variety of sources, intelligence gathering and that it will not involve other elements. It is therefore vital for ashore, gathering intelligence, concentrating combat power Contingent ROE. which can be activated as situations analysis can provide warning of changes in operating patterns planners to seek to understand all the elements of military and generating influence over the battlespace. is critical develop, are an important means of providing flexibility in and exercise programmes and allows for strategic level force-land, sea, air and others-if they are to become truly for power projection operations. Co-ordination and changing circumstances. identification and evaluation of potential crises. Maritime expert in their efficient employment. forces operating in international waters can gather a wide synchronisation with land and air operations will be required. Logistics and Maintenance variety of useful intelligence and provide a significant Support of Operations Ashore Chapter 12 Maritime logistics are a fundamental and critical part of the surveillance capability - sometimes the only reliable source of Once the focus of an intervention campaign moves ashore, the conduct of operations and must be planned accordingly. FUTURE AUSTRALIAN MARITME evidence and thus a critical element in identification and emphasis of maritime forces will shift from being enabling to Although maritime units deploy as self-contained units, they FORCES assessment. being supportive. This is not to say that the tasks assigned to do require regular resupply (every few days) of fuel and. every maritime forces will necessarily alter significantly, but the THE FUTURE OF NAVIES few weeks, of provisions and consumable stores. Force Generation wider purpose to which these tasks contribute will changc. Maritime forces are sensitive to technological change and Ammunition requirements will vary according to The size and composition of the forces required to respond to Expressed in the most appropriate doctrinal terms, maritime quick to exploit the opportunities it offers. Maritime warfare consumption rates, but. as an indication, guided missile a crisis will be shaped by: power can contribute to all the components of capability has long been a continual seesaw between offence and • government policy objectives and strategic concept. destroyers on the gunline off Vietnam engaged in near- required for the conduct of operations ashore. In particular, the defence, particularly since the advent at sea of asymmetrical VOL. 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 19 threats just over a century ago in the form of the self-propelled knowledge edge is also about using that knowledge effectively Another effect is t'lat these developments will maximise technological development, creating additional strengths and torpedo and then the submarine. Nevertheless, the thrust of to make and implement faster and better decisions than the the potential of seaborne task groups, working in conjunction opportunities for a nation's economy. For a smaller nation technological development, particularly that related to adversary. The desired outcome is decision superiority. A with air and land forces, to achieve strategic effects. This will with limited resources such as Australia, a careful balance will network concepts, appears to be creating just as many knowledge edge will exist when there is a comparative make joint operations even more important for the ADF. Air need to be drawn between the achievement of combat power opportunities as obstacles for the future employment of advantage in those factors that influence decision making and and land power in our maritime environment will benefit even and the development of national industry. This means that maritime forces and the utility of navies. Some aspects have its effective execution. more from what sea borne power can offer. The ADF will choices will need to be made between attempting innovation special significance for Australia as a medium power. The knowledge edge is not only technological but has accomplish most when all its components work together. solely on a national basis, engaging in co-operative many influences. It relies upon effective organisation and development with friendly and allied nations and accepting BALANCING PRESENT AND FUTURE doctrine, and upon properly trained and educated people who without substantial modification the systems developed by One conundrum is the requirement to balance the allocation of have the confidence to work within a culture which fosters others. For Australia, this will mean the development of a resources between present capability and development for the initiative and professional mastery. Collectively, these factors much more sophisticated approach to the problem of future. Despite the pace of information system advances and place greater emphasis on the non-technological aspects of the maintaining defence capability than has been required for the influence of Moore's Law (states thai computer power will knowledge edge. much of our history w hen we were able to rely upon our double every 18 months), the development and acquisition of alliances with the great powers not only at the strategic level, new technology for maritime combat is a relatively protracted PEOPLE but for much of the infrastructure and innovational effort that process, particularly when compared with the speed at which People will thus remain the most important factor. modern Navies - and sophisticated combal forces in general - the strategic environment can change. Furthermore, although Demographics and social change mean that the competition require. This challenge, it should be emphasised, is not only platforms (ships) represent a progressively smaller part of the for talented recruits will become increasingly intense. The one for the RAN. costs of acquisition, their useful lives have been increasing ADF and the Navy in particular face great challenges in progressively over the past fifty years. This has meant that recruiting and retaining the quality of men and women that NAVY PLANS ships acquired within one strategic context have been utilised will be needed. Meeting those challenges will require a The RAN has two plans which together provide the blueprint under completely different circumstances, often carrying very process of continual adaptation and improvement that for the development of Ihe Navy. Both are aligned with higher different weapon and sensor packages than those with which balances the needs of people against the demands of maritime level Defence Plans and Strategic Guidance. they were first commissioned. operations. This will be a vital element of the Navy's plans for A 127inm shell from HMAS ARUNTA caught in flight. The Mk-45 Mod 2 Plan GREEN provides executive authority for 127mm gun is currently ihe only firepower means by which the RAN can There is no simple division between the force in being, the the future. management decision making throughout Navy across theTTve support land forces ashore While being very accurate (particularly against enhanced force and the 'Navy after next' because at any point, air targets) its surface range is limited to 24kms. This range is not sufficient year financial planning and business cycle. It identifies the the requirement for the employment of maritime combat THE SEA, THE LAND AND THE AIR to support land forces ihat need lo venture 'from the beach*. However, the issues which must be confronted during this period and their Technology is rapidly increasing the potential of warships to maker of the Mk-45 has recently tested a Mod 4 version with a much longer power may emerge at short notice, and almost certainly at less barrel which can fire a standard 127mm shell lo a range of 47kms and a implications for Navy's combat capability and strategic notice than is required for the acquisition of maritime combat provide support to operations ashore as well as to project GPS guided round lo I lOkms. (RAN) development. power against the land in their own right. Networking of capabilities from scratch, or from a low readiness base. The Plan BLUE provides guidance for the directions of Naval sensor systems, particularly in conjunction with airborne amount of time required to achieve real capability in maritime Conversely, developments in networking and in long range development over the next thirty years. It examines a range of assets, means that warships are improving their capacity to warfare has already been noted in Chapter Ten (THE NAVY precision delivery of munitions mean thai traditional linkages issues which will affect the future force. This includes but is look over the horizon and around terrain and to cover inland Vol 65 No.I). Medium power Navies in particular must between particular platforms and their combat capabilities not limited to emergent warfighting concepts, new technology areas with their air warfare weapons. Co-operative therefore ensure that they maintain appropriate levels of will become much weaker. A precision weapon can be fired and personnel issues. It considers major resource issues, Engagement Capability (CEC) is one approach which, by contemporary capability for preparedness while ensuring that from a surface ship or a submarine, from a manned or an including the ways in which national industry can support the directly linking and fusing sensor data, promises significant they acquire sufficient future capability. This effectively unmanned aircraft, or from fixed or mobile platforms on land. transformation of the Navy. It will be the principal mechanism improvements in detection and engagement, particularly when means that naval force development must be regarded as a In these circumstances, the inherent capabilities of platforms by which the Navy will manage its own development and Ihe target is out of sight of the firing platform. Precision continuum, rather than a series of distinct steps. will be critical in determining which are most suitable in the contribute lo the evolution of the future ADF. guided munitions can be provided on demand and with future. extreme accuracy many kilometres inland. Unmanned aerial FUTURE TRENDS All this means that the ADF must work towards the vehicles, some of which can be deployed from ships, show The increased effectiveness of communications networks and integration of warfighting capabilities in all dimensions. The great promise for a wide range of uses, as do unmanned under of long range surveillance systems presents both opportunities platforms operated by the individual services will contain or water vehicles. Amphibious forces will further exploit the and challenges for maritime forces. At the same time as units be components of joint systems working to achieve integrated benefits of manoeuvre warfare at sea by conducting in all environments are finding it more difficult to remain effects. At the same time, the enablers for operations, such as amphibious operations from over the horizon, employing undetected. Ihey are also more readily able to operate covertly. C4I. will need lo be considered as capabilities which are organic helicopters and next-generation, high-speed organic The same types of technology which allow the early detection ubiquitous to all environments and which support the and independent landing craft. and tracking of surface, air and subsurface units also mean activities of all elements. that the same units can maintain hattlespace awareness and All these developments will have effects that will be thus the ability to employ their combat capabilities at short particularly important for Australia. In terms of maritime THE IMPLICATIONS FOR A notice without the requirement to transmit. The key issue of conflict, although the tactics may change, the requirement to MEDIUM POWER man time combat knowledge. achieve sea control will remain because there will still be the Maintaining and operating an effective Navy is highly The Revolution in Military Affairs is being driven by the capacity on the part of adversaries to utilise the new demanding of national industrial and technological The new MEKO X air warfare destroyer design. The MEKO X would now information revolution and related technologies. A high technology to interfere with seaborne communications. And. capabilities. Keeping up with the application of emergent have to feature prominently in the RAN's SEA 4000 study for its future air warfare requirement. The MEKO X has three banks of \ertical launch while the indications are that seaborne transport will become, priority is being placed by the ADF on the development of the technology is even more difficult, particularly as it brings with missile systems totalling 132 tubes. It also has two Mk-45 Mod 4 guns. 16 knowledge edge. This relates to the effective exploitation of at least in some areas, much faster, the physics and economics it the prospect of risk and failure. anti-ship missiles and two NH-90 sized helicopters. The design incorporates stealth features, phased array radar technology and an electric drive system information technologies to allow Australia to use its of transportation will still require an overwhelming proportion But properly directed expenditure on Naval systems and in the form of two poded electric motors with two propellers each in a push- of such activity to go by sea rather than by air. relatively small combat forcer to maximum effect. The platforms can itself encourage industrial growth and pull configuration. (MEKO) 26 VOL. 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 20 Flash Traffic Proposed Merger of Honours, awards, professionalism and commitment on November 8, 2001 in the boarding and and is destined to become NATO's next- Just prior to this presentation. Tenix and ADI commendations subsequent rescue of personnel from the WARRAMUNGA fires SUMBAR LESTARI known as SIEV 10. generation ship self-defence system. CMDR Parkin announced that Cadet shipbuilding The following Naval personnel ESSM Globally, the consortium involves 18 Petty Officer Sarah Gorman from TS received honours or awards in the "On Thursday. November 8. the companies across the ten participating STURT had been chosen as the SA 2002 capabilities Australia Day 2003 Honours list: SUMBAR LESTARI with a crew of The RAN has launched ils first nations and is headed by prime Cadet of the Year. Cadet PO Gorman Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) four Indonesians and 160 asylum Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) Defence contractors Thales. joint contractor. Raytheon Systems Company from Renmark had a very successful RADM BL Adams. DPE seekers was intercepted by HMAS from the Anzac Class frigate HMAS venture owner of ADI Limited, and of Tucson Arizona. year and has decided to join the RAN as RADM RE Shalders. VCDF WOLLONGONG and ACV ARNHEM WARRAMUNGA on 21 January 2003 Tenix have agreed in principle on a BAY in the vicinity of Ashmore Reef. Under the A$4 billion project, more a 2003 new entry, and with some very Member of the order of Australia The missile was launched against a proposal to merge the shipbuilding and than 4,000 missiles will be delivered to good training and background from the (AM) "Concerns that the vessel was being kalkara pilotless drone, and was guided ship repair capabilities of Tenix and the ten nations of the ESSM consortium. ANC. Significantly both the 2001 and sabotaged and that a Safety of Life at to within a lethal range of the target. The ADI. CAPT NS Coates. HQAST Production ol ESSM is underway and 2002 winners of this award have been CAPT JAP Graham. DPE Sea situation was developing led to a test was conducted off the coast of The move follows the release of the delivery of operational missiles to female cadets who have gone on to join Medal of the Order of Australia boarding party from HMAS Perth. Western Australia. Defence Naval Shipbuilding and Repair Consortium nations has commenced. the RAN ranks. (OAM) WOLLONGONG being dispatched to "The ESSM Consortium has Sector plan last year, and extensive the SUMBAR LESTARI. The ESSM provides improved ship CMDR DL McCourt. HQAST delivered the most advanced ship discussion over the last three years of self-defence capabilities against faster, LEUT GF Williams. MHQ "On arrival in the ship, the boarding defence system available in the world the need to rationalise the Australian lower, smaller and more manoeuvrable WO MJ Winner. MHQ party experienced considerable today. BAE SYSTEMS is delighted to naval shipbuilding industry in the face anti-ship missile threats as well as Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC) difficulties including fire which be part of such a successful program." of reduced demand. PRINCHAP ST Hubbard. NHQ ultimately led to an explosion in the said George Milosz. Domain Manager increased firepower. The missile has the The proposal would bring together CAPT CW Thomas. MHQ forward hold and panic amongst the Missiles & Decoys. BAE SYSTEMS. speed, agility and accuracy to engage threats to the launching vessel at all current naval shipbuilding, upgrade CMDR DJ Hunter. MHQ crew and passengers." BAE SYSTEMS Australia is the maximum range and in the most and repair businesses of both LCDR GW Day. MHQ GEN Cosgrove's commendation lead Australian contractor in the missile challenging conditions. companies. The proposed new company WO PJ Moy. Depsec C&S continued, "the action by the boarding program and is the design agent for the formed from the merger would be Conspicuous Service Medal (CSM) party in taking some time to remove ESSM's aerodynamic and thrust The ten participating countries are Major General Darryl Low Choy. AM. MBE. RFD. Director General Australian Defence Force majority owned by Tenix. Full details CMDR CJ Churcher. NAVSYSCOM timber boards from the sides of the ship vectoring performance. This includes Australia. Canada. Denmark. Germany. Cadets, (left) presents The Navy League of remain confidential pending talks with CMDR KPN Sharp. DPE to assist passengers to leave the vessel the thrust vector controller, Greece, the Netherlands. Norway, Australia SA Division Annual Efficiency Shield the Commonwealth Government and PO L Mace. MHQ after it was set on fire, in attempting to aerodynamic surfaces, body strakes and Spain. Turkey and the United States of to TS STURT's CO. LEUT Daniels (centreI in Defence Department. Commendation for Distinguished calm the passengers and give them control fins, and guidance and control America. ihe presence of NLA Slate President. CMDR Alan Preskett (right). Service advice in jumping into the water and re- algorithms for the initial phases of Jf the merger proceeds. ADI directing them within the vessel and in flight. Limited's other joint venture owner. LCDR RJ Cull. HQAST TS STURT doubles up attempting to release water and Transfield Holdings, would retain ils LCDR LA Curac. HQAST In production. BAE SYSTEMS HMAS DECHAINEUX generally save the vessel, demonstrated in SA 50/50 joint venture ownership in the LEUT DC. Hughes. HQAST Australia is also responsible for considerable courage and concern for Incident ongoing business operations of ADI. CPO MI Harris. HQAST manufacturing the computer and other In another keenly contested year, CPO SK Pokarier. HQAST those onboard. components of ESSM's guidance outstanding diligence and results On Wednesday 12 February 03 Once established, the new company The Navy League of Australia "These actions combined with the section. provided a reward to the South HMAS DECHAINEUX was would be a potential bidder for the would like to congratulate those subsequent rescue, in concert with ACF This latest missile launch represents Australian Naval cadet unit TS STURT. conducting a routine exercise activity Australian Submarine Corporation, recognised for their efforts. ARNHEM BAY of 162 of the 164 a milestone in the evolution of the selected as the State's most successful off Perth when a sea water hose burst. subject to the requirements of the passengers, demonstrated the quick ESSM program and follows on from the and efficient Naval Cadet Unit for 2002. As a result flooding occurred. Commonwealth. thinking, bravery and dedication of the first firing of the ESSM from a US Navy an award sponsored by the Navy League The crew immediately implemented The initiative is the first step in Gong gonged for SIEV officers and ship's company of HMAS surface combatant, the USS SHOUP in of Australia. Located in the Riverland of the appropriate procedures and the creating a long-term and sustainable 10 rescues WOLLONGONG. July 2002 (sec Vol 65 No. I THE NAVY. South Australia, the unit is under the submarine surfaced. It returned safely naval shipbuilding industry, bringing "The achievements of the officers p 19) command of Lieutenant Tanya Daniels under its own power to HMAS A Chief of the Defence Force Unit together and enhancing Australia's and ship's company of HMAS HMAS WARRAMUNGA is the first ANC. STIRLING. Commendation has gone to the ship's significant capability in this strategic WOLLONGONG were of the highest Anzac ship to be fitted with the ESSM At the annual trophy presentation A most experienced submariner company of patrol boat HMAS industry sector. order and arc in keeping with the finest system, which will eventually be fitted ceremony at Port Adelaide, conducted commands HMAS DECHAINEUX and WOLLONGONG for its action in It would assist the long-term traditions of the Royal Australian Navy to all of the RAN's Anzac and Adelaide by Senior Officer Cadets SA. CMDR at all times, his main priority was the saving 162 people from the burning restructuring of the industry, ensure and the ADF." class frigates - 14 ships in total. Sandy Coulson RANR. and with all welfare of the crew and the vessel. Indonesian vessel SUMBAR LESTARI vital support capabilities arc maintained By Graham Davis. NAVY NEWS. All the later ships in the Anzac class ANC Units within SA represented, the also known as SIEV 10, in November The damaged hose was on the and lead to new investment in will be delivered in the ESSM awaited top prize was announced by auxiliary Sea Water System, which is a 2001. capability. configuration, and the first two ships of Senior Naval Officer SA CMDR John system exposed to sea pressure at all The award, signed by CDF. GEN GLADSTONE makes It would bring together the financial, the class - which are currently fitted Parkin ADC RAN. times. This system provides cooling to Peter Cosgrove. was presented recently technical and prime contracting mileage milestone with the RIM-7P NATO Sea Sparrow Major General Darryl Low Choy. engineering systems on board the boat. to the ship's company in Darwin by the strengths the Defence Department system - will be upgraded to take AM. MBE. RFD. Director General Some operating restrictions have Maritime Commander. RADM Raydon HMAS GLADSTONE (LCDR requires, in a company with unique ESSM. The six Adelaide class frigates Australian Defence Force Cadets, then been imposed on the remainder of the Gates. Chris Smith) has steamed 500.000 experience in understanding and will be equipped with ESSM under a presented The Navy League of Australia submarines until the cause of the failure The commendation also contained nautical miles. The second RAN ship (o working with Defencc and the Royal separate upgrade program (which is SA Division Annual Efficiency Shield is established. praise for the Australian Customs Vessel cany the name clocked half a million Australian Navy. The only draw back is approx 18 months behind schedule). to TS STURT's CO. LEUT Daniels in While the initial investigation was ARNHEM BAY. miles during her current patrol in that this new company may have a ESSM is the North Atlantic Treaty the presence of NLA State President. under way. submarines at sea were The award reads, "I commend the northern Australian waters. This equates monopoly on the Aust market and thus Organisation's (NATO) largest and most CMDR Alan Preskett. who later directed to cease operations and return officers and ship's company of HMAS lo 926. 000 kilometres or just over 23 successful co-operative weapons project presented the sponsorship cheque. to base. reduce competition. WOLLONGONG for their exceptional laps of the earth, or lo the moon and 26 VOL. 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 23 back and half way back to the moon Coastwatch first spotted the ship, He said the ship's batteries were all Taiwan to pay off floating spare parts shop for the other Bridge watch procedures are again. flying an Indonesian flag near Rowley flat and one fuel lank was empty while three Kidds which were in far better currently the main focus of an Built by NQEA and being one of Shoals. 150 nautical miles northwest of there was plenty of fuel in another. Gearings for Kidds condition. investigation as on the surface it appears the collision may have been five patrol boats based in Cairns. Broome on January 3. He suggested the vessel, in the COURAGEOUS' fault. GLADSTONE has visited over 50 The craft was under power however, absence of her crew may have motored Delta IV back on This is the RSN's worst naval different ports in 12 countries during her no one was seen on deck. across the ocean until the fuel in the first 9 IS years of faithful service in the RAN. 'Death Patrol tragedy and the first time that female "No-one came out on the bridge to tank expired. Asked if there was a davit She was the fourteenth of fifteen sailors have lost their lives in the RSN. wave." CMDR Greaves told Navy for a rigid launch. CMDR Greaves said The Russian Navy Delta IV nuclear- Fremantle class patrol boats to be News. "no", the craft may have carried an powered ballistic missile submarine completed for the RAN. "Just before dawn on Thursday. inflatable rubber dinghy, which may (SSBN) YEKATERINBURG (K-84) V-22 completes at-sea Displacing 235 tons, she is 42 January 9. 2(X)3 our radar made contact, have been used by the occupants to quit has nearly completed its post-refit sea metres long and is home to 24 officers trials in the White Sea after its long period at the time we were heading into the trawler. and sailors. Her maximum speed is 27 overhaul period at the Zvezdochka Broome for a logistic port visit. A decision was made to tow the The Osprey Integrated Test Team has knots and her armament includes one shipyard in Severomorsk. completed another milestone in getting "We changed course and came up on ghost ship to Broome and by 9.30ani on 40mm Bofors gun and two 12.7 One of seven Delta IV SSBNs the Bell V-22 Osprey into service. the ship. the Thursday a line had been secured, a millimetre machine guns. commissioned between 1985 and 1992. Osprey No. 10 recently completed an at- "No lights were showing and no-one steaming party put aboard, and the 150 GLADSTONE is programmed to YEKATERINBURG was undocked in sea period aboard the LHD USS IWO could be seen. We first thought the crew mile tow begun. The Kidd class destroyer the former USS undergo a major maintenance period in JIMA. The V-22's initial approach to the SCOTT. Taiwan has bought all four Kidds from April 2002. having begun its refit at the the middle of 2003 and is expected to might have been asleep. "We rotated the steaming party and the US and expects to press all four into service Zvezdochka facility in 1998. It is due to USS IWO JIMA demonstrated how the made about seven knots to Willie continue living up to her motto and "The trawler was drifting well possibly w ith a VLS in place of its Mk-26 twin rejoin the Northern Fleet in the middle V-22 differs from the platforms it's "Defend the Right " for many more within the Australian Fishing Zone." Creek." he said. arm mivsile launchers. (USN) of this year. designed to replace. With the nacelles miles to come. "At Willie Creek (the detention area CMDR Greaves told Northern Taiwan is currently planning to The refit cycle for the Delta IV class fully forward, the Osprey flew up the for vessels detained by Australian decommission its seven remaining SSBNs. which now constitute the starboard side of the ship at 220 knots officials) we anchored for the rest of the Gearing-class (Wu Chin III Conversion) mainstay of Russia's strategic before rolling left and performing a 180- night. destroyers once four ex-USN Kidd- submarine deterrent force, has assumed degree. three-G level turn. From there "In daylight the AFP. Customs and class destroyers on order from the USA high priority as a result of the lengthy any resemblance between a fixed-wing others came out to inspect the vessel, it are delivered. delay in introducing the fourth- 'break' manoeuvre and the V-22's was declared a crime scene." he said. Taiwan has already decommissioned generation Project 955 'Borey'-class approach ended as test pilot Lt. Col. An AFP spokesman said his officers four Gearings, together with seven SSBNs and the progressive retirement Kevin Gross, a Marine who logged combat hours in the AV-8B Harrier had spent two days inspecting the Fletcher and Allen M Sumner-class of older SSBN classes. during the Gulf War. tilled the engines trawler and found no evidence of foul destroyers, which date back to the from airplane to helicopter mode. play. Second World War. The Taiwanese Navy believes that decommissioning Singaporean patrol His investigators were still to Seconds later Osprey No. 10 additional Gearings would resolve determine how many people had been vessel damaged hovered over Spot Nine and. with the manpower shortages that threaten to LSE's signal, smoothly touched down on board. Three female sailors were killed, and arise when the Kidds arrive. on the non-skid deck. With that, the HIGH AIM 6 left Taiwan on October a fourth still missing presumed dead, The Taiwanese Navy argued before Osprey was back at sea. the environment 30. On December 13. the ship's master after the Republic of Singapore Navy the Legislative Yuan's Defence where the MV-22, the Marine Corps contacted the owners from the Marshall patrol vessel RSS COURAGEOUS was Committee that the Kidds were needed variant of the rotorcraft. will spend Islands, later they tried unsuccessfully struck astern by a Dutch-registered to replace the ageing Gearings. much of its operational life. to contact the captain and then asked the merchant ship. ANL INDONESIA. The seven Gearings were converted "It felt very good." Lt. Col. Gross US Coast Guard to keep watch. The incident happened off Pedra during the 1980s into air-defence ships said after logging his fifth landing for STUART takes ghost Command of the discovery and was So what happened in the days from Branca in the very busy Singapore under the Wu Chin III programme. the day. "We didn't have any surprises. authorised under Australian Fisheries Straits during the night of 3 January 03. ship in tow December 13 to January 3 when the When the Kidds arrive they will assume Even with a lot of wind across the deck regulations to board the vessel. After the ship's crew were able to vessel was found more than 3.5(H) this role. the airplane handled with ease." Commander David Greaves and his "We launched a RHIB and a prevent the very badly damaged vessel kilometres distant? The Kidds are armed with two twin The Atlantic waters nearly 100 miles ship's company in HMAS STUART boarding party led by LEUTCarl Jordan from sinking. COURAGEOUS was By Graham Davis. V.-tl ) SEWS Mk 26 launchers for SM-2 surface to air cast of the Maryland coastline are not have found a MARIE CELESTE like went across to the ship. towed to Changi Naval Base and then 'ghost ship* bobbing in the Indian missiles but these may be replaced by a the friendliest place to conduct flight "The boarding party found no-one craned ashore for a detailed examination Ocean. Like the ill fated sailing ship vertical launch system for the Raytheon tests in January, and the V-22 Integrated on board. The trawler was in good of the damage. found abandoned and drifting in the SM-2 Block IIIA Standard surface to air Test Team was handed their fair share of condition although its contents were a Atlantic in 1872 there was no-one missiles that Taiwan is also receiving as challenges from Mother Nature. High bit messy. aboard the 20 metre long. 150 tonne, part of the US arms package. winds, rough seas, bitter cold, and long line trawler the HIGH AIM 6. "There was a 'day-to-day' calendar. It will be interesting to see if all four sudden snowstorms all forced It's thought the Taiwanese owned The last entry was January 3. Kidds arc returned to service. During adjustments to the plan over the five-day vessel had a crew of about ten made "There was food in the galley. It had RAN inspections in 1999 the first of the test period. But in the end. the ITT's up of a Taiwanese master and engineer started to rot. as had the fish in the hold. class. USS KIDD. was deemed hard work paid off. Along with and Indonesian fishing crew. "Personal effects were still there." uneconomical to return to service given completing the deck landing Their whereabouts are the subject of CMDR Greaves said. the years of neglect after her early The badly damaged RSS COURAGEOUS still qualification for one of the pilots, the intensive world-wide inquiries which The 20 metre long. 150 tonne, long line trawler "I know the story of the MARIE decommissioning. USS KIDD was afloat after her collision with a merchant ship. team gathered crucial data on both CH- have already lead to checks in Taiwan, the HIGH AIM 6 was found adrift in Australian slated, had the RAN been allowed to The fact that the little ship is still afloat is 53 and UH-I rotor downwash the Marshall Islands. Indonesia and CELESTE, it was just like. it. a ghost territorial waters by the new An/ac frigate HMAS testimony to the professional damage control STt'ART. What happened to the boat's crew- is proceed with the purchase, to be a characteristics, quantified the effect of a Australia. ship." he said. procedures of the RSN. still a mystery. (RAN) 9 VOL. 65 NO. 3 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 hovering UH-I on the V-22 parked deck, well worn after 4 months of flight companies conducted maintenance on Spain to get second behind it. and collected air wake figures operations in the Gulf. This work was the destroyer. for the LHD-class out to 52 knots of done with the help of Western Waiting for them was the carrier wind over the deck. Australian companies. It also gave the replacement crew of 350 sailors from The Spanish Navy and Izar 5000 plus sailors more time for R&R the recently decommissioned USS Construcciones Navales have signed an after a busy deployment. KINKAID (DD-965) as well as a agreement for a definition study of the Twenty four aircraft from Carrier replacement SH-60B Seahawk project to build a 'Strategic Projection Air Wing Fourteen were flown to RAAF helicopter detachment flown out from Landing Logistics ship', the biggest in Pearce to conduct training at the Hawaii. The crew were accommodated the Spanish Navy's history. at Leeuwin Barracks for a few days Lancelin exercise area. One F/A-I8C In October 02. Izar started work to prior, waiting for FLETCHER'S arrival. Hornet from VFA-25 'Fist of the Fleet' define the project according to the When it is time for the FLETCHER'S suffered major damage when it ran oil' Spanish Navy's initial requirements. next Sea Swap, the crew from the then the end of a Pearce runway and through After this first draft, the Spanish Navy decommissioned USS OLDENDORF bushland. finally slopping in a paddock presented the final requirements that (DD-972) will fly in to replace the An MV-22 Osprey hovers over the flight deck, as next to the RAAF base. have permitted the creation of the ship's tests resumed on the aircraft. Ihe firsl at sea KINKAID crew. On 16 January 2(X)3 another Los definitive design. testing of the MV-22 in two years. The V-22 Angeles class submarine. USS FLETCHER, or the Fighting Jack', Osprey is a tilt-rotor vertical/short takeoff and The Strategic Projection LL Ship The rather unique design from Thales which landing I VSTOLl. inuln-mi sion aircraft HONOLULU (SSN-718) arrived at as the ship is known by the crew, was will be the Spanish Navy's biggest ship, . won the RN's CVF carrier project. (Thales) resources of industry, the MoD has new Armidale class patrol boats. The developed to fill mulli-Servi ,-c combat HMAS STIRLING for a few days of commissioned in 1980. The 30th ship of at over 26.000 tons, and a length of 225 operational requirements supporting Marine high performance vessels form the R&R before departing. ihe Spruance class. FLETCHER will be meters. It has been conceived to provide decided to draw upon Thales' strength amphibious operations (USN) nuclcus of a modern, capable yet On 19 January the USS SHILOH one of the last of the class to remain in a base for amphibious operations of in a three way alliance that will clearly affordable solution to Australia's departed Fremantle for the Arabian Sea. service, they began decommissioning Spain's Marines, strategic projection of mean substantial work for Thales in the maritime patrol requirements. USN in Western As SHILOH sailed out. the Spruance the class in 1997. the Army's forces to conflict areas, UK. This decision represents a major Australia class destroyer USS FLETCHER (DD- The architect of the Sea Swap environmental operations, as well as step forward for Thales Pic and cements This solution draws on the 992) sailed into Fremantle after time in Program. Vice Admiral Timothy disaster relief. the company's position as the second complementary strengths and skills of the Persian Gulf. FLETCHER would be On 22 December 2002 after a four LaFlcur. Commander Naval Surface The ship will have a 185m flight largest defence contractor in the UK. Austal. Australia's largest shipbuilder, the first ship taking part in the USN's month tour in the Persian Gulf, the Forces US Pacific Fleet, stated in a deck, with capacity to operate Harriers "This decision is a huge success for and Defence Maritime Services (DMS). 'Sea Swap' program (see next news Nimitz class aircraft carrier USS speech on 21 January that this first use or four CH-47 Chinook helicopters Thales as a prime contractor. By an established provider of logistic and item) ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72) with of Sea Swap would save the USN over or six medium size helicopters. The contributing at the highest level to the technical support to the RAN with a Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (NK) On the morning of 20 January the $86 million (US) and would save one ship's hanger will be capable of most important aircraft carrier proven track record and solid corporate embarked, along with the Ticonderoga ship from having to be deployed from ABRAHAM LINCOLN and her air accommodating up to 12 helicopters or programme ever developed in Europe, it backing. class cruiser USS SHILOH (CG-67) the United States to the Persian Gulf. wing set sail for the Arabian Sea. eight Harriers and will have an aircraft confirms our global strategy by The team's proposal offers arrived at FREMANTLE. The Los VADM LaFleur went on to state that rendezvousing with other units of the elevator with a capacity of 25 tons. The enhancing our prime contractor substantial savings compared with Angeles class submarine USS LINCOLN battle group «:. the threat of with ihe limited number of ships and the carrier will be able to carry up to 1.355 capabilities" said Chairman & CEO current Defence procurement budgets CHEYENNE (SSN-773) which was war with Iraq grows and the allied demands made after September 11. troops, which is more than two times the Denis Ranque. "We are extremely proud and historical in-service support costs, also part of the group docked at HMAS military build-up continues. there was a choice of either longer capacity of the Spanish Navy's current to be chosen as the Key Supplier in this resulting in significantly lower total life- STIRLING. What started as a four-day deployments for crews, or programs like By Ian Johnson. Galicia class Amphibious ships. new Alliance and that the Thales' design cycle expenditure. visit to Perth for nearly 6000 sailors Sea Swap to shorten the length of time has been selected as the basis for this The successful outcomes of the stretched into six days as the ships the crew is at sea by almost two months key military asset. Our part in this RAN's Port Services and Support Craft remained over Christmas. Security was USN conducts 'Sea in transit to and from the Persian Gulf. Thales wins UK programme will represent one of the (PSSC) contract dcmonstraics DMS* tight and there were no public tours on On 23 January after four days of Swap' in Fremantle carrier contract most important contracts ever won in ability to provide tremendous value in these ships. transferring crews, the formal crew the history of Thales. and in particular delivering Ihe through-life support With the LINCOLN as part of changeover and Change of Command Thales' design for the RN's new r 1 the most important in the last ten years." required by the patrol boat project. In aircraft carriers has been selected and Carrier Air Wing Fourteen were VFA- ceremony took place, with Commander fact, a review of DMS' performance by the company is set to play a key role in Thales is the major systems supplier 115 Eagles' the first F/A-I8E Super Tom Ncal being relieved by the Department of Finance has the £2.7 billion future carrier to the Royal Navy. Along with Hornet squadron to deploy overseas. Commander Michael Slotsky. As the established that Navy is obtaining 125% programme, as part of a tripartite electronic warfare, communications and After the group's departure on ceremony finished Commandci Slotsky of value for 75% of the cost against the alliance with BAE Systems and the UK radar. Thales' systems are at the heart of December 28 the ships were headed told his crew "Let's go get them" and previous internal baseline. MoD. The company will, in the coming the UK's naval capability. Thales also home when the threat of war with Iraq three days later FLETCHER sailed, provides sonar and periscopes for all The proposed vessel's characteristics returning to the Persian Gulf as part of weeks, be negotiating details of how it grew. Orders arrived from Washington also result in substantial savings. will under joint management make a submarines. The- company is the UK's for the LINCOLN group to remain in the CONSTELLATION Carrier Battle major contribution to the programme. second largest defence contractor, the region, extending their deployment Group to continue enforcing United The company's partners in CVF who having been a supplier to the MoD since from six to nine months. Shortly after Nation sanctions against Iraq. The USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN'S landing deck have provided magnificent support will permission was received from the relieved FLETCHER crew flew to before the First World War. being re-surfaced in WA. (Graeme Fuller) be consulted about how their Australian Government for the Hawaii a few days later. contributions can be used. LINCOLN and SHILOH to return to On 19 January 2003 the Spruance Both the USN and WA Government Austal unveils patrol Fremantle on 6 January 2003 for a class destroyer USS FLETCHER have declared the first Sea Swap a Alex Dorrian. chief executive officer boat contender fifteen day visit. (DD-992) arrived at H-Berth. Victoria success. Another ship in the program of Thales Pic, said: "Thales is delighted This unprecedented return visit Quay to become the first USN ship lo USS HIGGINS (DDG-76) will conduct that its design has been selected in this Western Australian shipbuilder allowed for maintenance work to be conduct 'Sea Swap', a full crew change her first sea swap within the next few intensely close-run competition and that Austal Ships has released the first images over of a surface warship. During we have been identified as the Key of the design it has submitted for the conducted on both ships, including months. Austal's proposal for the RAN's new Armidale Supplier. The project will stretch the resurfacing the LINCOLN'S flight FLETCHERS stay several WA By Ian Johnson. tender for the Royal Australian Navy's class patrol boats. (Austal) 26 VOL. 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 27 Recognising thai boih sieel and Wedgetail gets closer It also will prov ide in the same aperture Observations aluminum have potential benefits in an integrated civil and military patrol boat construction. Austal produced Northrop Grumman Corporation has identification friend-or-foe (IFF) By Geoffrey Evans monohull designs in both materials and completed initial testing of the first capability. compared their relative merits in detail. production Multirole Electronically These studies showed that the two Scanned Array tMESA) radar antenna AN UNUSUAL APPROACH TO accounted for some 56% of Australia's total merchandise designs have approximately equal build for Australia's Wedgetail airborne early exports: Japan remains the largest expert market while those costs, however, the aluminium variant w arning and control (AEW&C) aircraft WAR of China. SE Asia and India have grown. The MESA antenna exploits leading- uses 21% less fuel. Combined with lower It must be assumed the purpose of publicity given to the Australia's links with other regions - the Middle East. edge technology by combining two side- maintenance costs, these fuel savings massing of armed forces close to Iraq has been to persuade Europe, the Americas and with neighbouring PNG and Pacific result in significantly lower through-life looking phased arrays with an President Saddam Hussein of the futility of resisting demands island states - some historical and nearly all involving trade in expenditure. innovative end-firing top hat' antenna that he should surrender the weapons of mass destruction he is goods or services, are fully reported in the White Paper that emits ;>nd shapes a beam in the fore Developed over a two-year period believed to possess. together with global security implications and the threat posed and aft directions. This combination and drawing on the vast accumulated The RAAF's fir\i Wedgetail airframe seen by terrorism. makes MESA the first airborne Even so the publicity at times seems to have been carried experience of Austal and DMS in vessel coming out of Boeing's Washington facility The to an unusual extent, especially to anyone who has lived The writer has some reservations about a section asserting design, construction, operation and surveillance radar that provides a 360- phased arra\ radar has hecn successfully tested through or taken part in 20th century wars. Formal 'farewell' the stability of great power relations: At the time of writing it support, the 56 metre patrol boat has degree azimuth scan without mechanical and will be integrated onto the aircraft later this year (RAAFl ceremonies for sailors, soldiers and airmen as they depart for does not seem an appropriate word to use in connection with been fully optimized for the RAN's rotation of a radar dish. the scene of potential hostilities, details of ships and various major power relations. requirements - both operational and Designed under contract to The The first production MESA antenna defence force units, media illustrations of the likely battle- As a final observation, the writer has noted the importance budgetary - for long-term performance Boeing Company for the Australian was rolled out of Northrop Grumman's field. conjecture about probable tactics and casualties for Advancing the National Interest attaches to trade. Most of and reliability. Defence Force (ADF). the MESA will be Baltimore. Md.. facility, where it is also attackers and attacked alike, endless debate on what happens Australia's trade in the form of goods must cross the seas in "Embracing technology that is integrated into a modified Boeing 737- undergoing initial system testing. A afterwards, the effect on the United Nations Organization - a vulnerable merchant ships: protecting the ships is a maritime proven, up-to-date and widely applied, 700 aircraft. The first of these platforms second antenna will be delivered later task and a part of the nation's maritime security strategy, and the Austal patrol boat is a thoroughbred rolled off the factory line in October this spring. Main system integration matter of vital importance so far as the future is concerned - as mentioned above, in process of review by a committee of naval vessel that is operator friendly, 2002 at the company's Rcnton. Wash., testing will begin in late 2003 and all regrettably to no avail as this column goes to press. the Parliament. One would expect the policy to be confirmed reliable and easy to maintain throughout facility in the U.S. The ADF has continue through 2(X)6. The first flight of To this observer it seems that too many national leaders and the planned means of implementation undertaken without ils life." said Austal Ships' Military purchased a total of four aircraft. a MESA equipped 737-700 is scheduled have painted themselves - and their countries - into a corner delay. Projects Manager. Mr Kim Gillis. Attached to the top aft section of the for early 2(X)4. with major integration and extrication w ithout loss of face by one or another will be Recognising that crew fatigue and fuselage, the MESA antenna is flight testing to follow. difficult if war is to be averted. other morale factors are potentially constructed of ultralight material. Northrop Grumman w ill also supply major inhibitors of operational It enables state-of-the-art prime contractor Boeing with the performance, considerable attention has performance at a fraction of current electronics for the MESA radar and IFF. FOREIGN POLICY, TRADE AND been given to crew comfort issues. system weights, thereby allowing the power supply systems, and the radar DEFENCE Join The Navy League of Australia. "Extensive testing has proved the additional time on station for the aircraft. software, parts of which are supplied by It hardly needs to be stated that foreign, trade and defence design's excellent seakeeping qualities MESA will provide multiple its Australian industry partners. Tenix See centre section for how. policies are closely linked and so this writer was pleased to and that the aluminium hull is siightly surveillance applications, using pulse Pty Ltd.. Adelaide: Cablex Pty Ltd.. East superior to the steel design in this doppler radar forms for air search and Bentleigh. Victoria: and Thycon Pty receive from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade a regard." Mr Gillis said. pulse forms for maritime surface search. Ltd.. Melbourne. copy of "Advancing the National Interest", the Government's The vessel's Australian-designed second White Paper on foreign and trade policy: Defence and manufactured motion control policy was outlined in the Defence 2(XX) White Paper and is system also contributes to substantially currently under review as a consequence of terrorist activities improved ship operability as well as during the last eighteen months and rather surprisingly, a increasing safety and reducing crew Parliamentary committee is conducting a public examination fatigue by eliminating excessive ship of a cornerstone of defence policy - a maritime strategy - at motion. the same time. All onboard systems conform lo Advancing the National Interest is a comprehensive Defence quality requirements and arc document detailing Australia's relations with countries, large straightforward to operate and maintain. and small, in every part of the world. The United States is seen System reliability and supportability is as the most powerful military and economic power and enhanced through carefully planned assured of pre-eminence into the foreseeable future; with an system back-ups and by maximum use economy accounting for 33% of global GDP and defence of readily-available commercial expenditure more than five times greater than any other nation equipment. (in fact more than the next ten defence spending nations With Austal's extensive modern combined), this is not surprising and has no doubt The Australian Navy League, shipbuilding facilities and large, skilled strengthened the resolve of successive governments to seek workforce and DMS' established the closest possible relations with that country. since 1900 it has remained presence in all Australian Navy ports While stressing the pre-eminence of the United States, the including the patrol boat bases in Cairns White Paper by no means overlooks Australia's geographical 'The Civilian Arm of the RAN'. and Darwin, this commercially focused situation and the importance of its relations with the diverse partnership is ready to respond to the The amphihiou> transport dock ship SAN ANTONIO (LPD-17) is under construction at Northrop range of countries that constitute Asia. Australia now has a start of the project as soon as the Grumman Ship Systems Avondale in New Orleans. SAN ANTONIO is scheduled for launching in major economic interest in Asia and its markets in 2002 contract is awarded. July of this year and should he commissioned in 2005. (USN) VOL. 65 NO. 3 THE NAVY THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 9 The much-feared Japanese 24-inch/61cm Type 93 'Long of excellent illustrations and compelling tales of daring-do PRODUCT REVIEW Lance' torpedo developed in 1933 and entering production in under treacherous, suffocating circumstances makes Lost Subs 1935 was a far superior torpedo to anything else in the world an engaging example of this 'coffee-table' formal. Siilors in Slouch Hats. Principal Navies featured in Naval Weapons are: Great at that time. The devastation it caused with its range early in Britain. United States of America. Japan. Germany. France. the Pacific War is well documented. From a sea of memories recorded by the Men of 42 Ordeal By Exorcet Italy and Soviet Union. Also included and divided by country The Allied forces had nothing to compare with these Australian Landing Craft Company, RAE, AIF. (including minor powers not directly involved in ihe war), are: powerful weapons which basically doubled their torpedoes in HMS GLAMORGAN and the Edited by WW. Rue Argentina. Brazil. Chile. Denmark. Finland. Greece. all aspects of capability; speed, range and warhead. Falklands War 1982 Published by Hesperian Press IVA. Netherlands. Norway. Peru. Poland, Portugal. Romania. Japanese 'Long Lance' torpedoes had an incredible range By Ian Inskip Price $22 00 Spain. Sweden. Thailand. Turkey and Yugoslavia. of 43.700 yards/40.000 metres at a speed of 36-38 knots or Chatham Publishing l6Spp. illustrated. alternatively a range of 21.900 yards/20.000 metres at 48-50 Covered are every aspect of naval guns; torpedoes: anti- Available from: Review ed by Ian Johnson knots and carried an explosive warhead of 1.080 lb/490 kg. submarine weapons; mines: and bombs: rockets and missiles. Crusader Trading Sailors in Slouch Hats is the The 1943 Model 3 version had a much larger and heavier For example the variety of torpedoes mentioned includes wet- 9 Townsville st wartime reminiscences of warhead of 1.720 lb/780 kg with a maximum range of 32.800 heaters for destroyers, wet-heaters for submarines, airborne Fyshwick ACT 2609 the men of 42 Australian yards/30.000 metres at a speed of 36-38 knots. wet-heaters, electric non-homing varieties for surface ships or Ph: (02) 6239 2332 Landing Craft Company. One can only marvel at the many hundreds of hours w hich submarines, hydrogen peroxide types, airborne homing, and Price: $45 +pp RAH. AIF during World even obsolete torpedoes still in naval service at that time. went into compiling a book of this magnitude which is a War II. From their role in fitting memory to the late John Campbell. Most highly Ordeat by Exocet is the harrowing tale of Type 12 County Operation Porton in June All major weaponry of the period and weapons of earlier recommended. class destroyer HMS GLAMORGAN, the only ship to survive 1945. Sailors in Slouch vintage that were still employed during the war, and those that a hit by an Exocet anti-ship missile during the Falklands Hats tells of the battle of were at an experimental, trial or design stage in 1945 are also Conflict in 1982. told by her Navigating Officer. Bougainville from a included. Lost Subs: From the Hunley to the HMS GLAMORGAN. Admiral Woodwards Flagship soldier's poini of view as This explains the presence of the twin Mk VI* mount fitted Kursk, until HERMES' arrival in Ascension, was in the thick of the well as the unit's in postwar Royal Australian Navy Daring-class and Battle- fighting throughout the conflict. Her role for most of the time beginnings in 1943 as the class destroyers and the River-class destroyer escorts which is The greatest submarines ever lost - was that of an expendable escort, and she was to face the full Army hurriedly formed the included in the Great Britain section. It was the last type of wrath of the enemy - and the elements - in the South Atlantic. 42 Australian Landing and found. twin-turret in RAN service. Incorporating vivid firsthand accounts written at the lime, Craft Company for use By Spencer Dunmore Naval guns include the gigantic Japanese Type 94 18.1- and illustrated with many previously unpublished in amphibious landing Allen and Unwin photographs, the book also portrays the daily life of an escort operations in the Pacific. inch/46cm which were fitted on the world's largest Hardcover. I76pp under wartime conditions and describes only too clearly the More a collection of personal stories than an official battleships. YAMATO and MUSHASI. a vast contrast, for Reviewed by Doug Steele tension, fear, storm, cold, disaster and sorrow which were so history. General Peter Cosgrove AC MC said of Sailors in example, to the Browning 0.50-inch/12.7mm Browning M2 $49.95 close at hand, though incidents of humour and moments of Slouch Hats "...a stirring and fitting tribute to the magnificent water cooled machine guns carried aboard United States Navy elation were certainly not uncommon. soldiers who risked and often gave their lives in Operation units early in the war. In August 2000, the fates of two very different submarines An interesting fact arising from the book was the use of the Ponon in 1945." The British battleship HMS RODNEY provides and made headlines around the world. While the Confederate RN's Lynx helicopters off Port Stanley. These aircraft were interesting table during her action with the German battleship Army's H.L. HUNLEY was being raised in South Carolina, An interesting read and an insight into an Army Water unit fitted with large radar reflectors and would approach the coast BISMARCK in 1941. With her nine l6-ineh/406mm guns the Russian nuclear submarine KURSK was on the verge of during WWII. at around 15-20 knots to try and lure the Argentines into located in triple turrets. A. B. and C turrets mounted forward, disaster in the Barents Sea. In his latest book. Lost Subs, Available from Hesperian Press at www.hesperianpress.com believing this was a ship about to conduct shore bombardment Spencer Dunmore follows the course of submarine history or PO Box 317 Victoria Park WA 6979. Ph (08) 9362 5955 she fired some 384 shells from her main armament, each and entice the Argentines to fire their land based Exocets. between these two famous subs. As its title suggests. Lost weighing 2048lb/929 kg. at the enemy juggernaut. which the Fleet knew to be deployed to the islands. Subs focuses particularly on the sinking, rescue, discovery and Naval Weapons Where I expected the break-up of the huge shells fired by Another tale details the intelligence gained on an salvaging of over a century and a half of submarines - and a Rodney's guns to be reasonably evenly dispersed, it was not Argentine plan to mingle one of its British made Type 42 Of World War Two selection of their victims - that have been lost in both peace so. The three guns of A turret (left, centre and right) fired 36. destroyers within the RN Task Force on a suicide mission to By John Campbell 50 and 22 shells dotal 108) respectively. B turret fired 45. 47 and war. get the carriers. However, during the conflict Argentine ships Published by Conway Maritime Press. 9 Blenheim Court. and 52 (144) and C turret. 44. 42 and 44 (130) in a more even Lost Subs is a lavishly illustrated publication combining transited along their coast so close to avoid RN nuclear Brewery Road. London N7 9NY. England. spread during the action. Obviously the weather could have military and maritime history with marine archaeology. After powered submarines that the ship earmarked for the mission E-mail: sales(achrysalisbooks.co.uk. Price 45 pounds. been a factor in the performance by A turret. an introduction to the birth and development of the submarine. ran aground and was unable to proceed. Published October. 2002. Another interesting comparison is in the United States Dunmore covers its first use as a weapon in the American While attacking the enemy. GLAMORGAN faced Re\ iewed by Vic Jeffery Navy section in the table titled Ammunition Performance with Civil War and the enduring mysteries surrounding the missiles, bombs, shells and rockets. Personal accounts recall Whilst there have been countless reference books produced Kamikaze Actions and Non-Kamikaze Actions Between I HUNLEY; the U-boat campaign and the daring feat of the these attacks, and other operations including the Pebble Island relating to the naval history of World War II. there has been October. 1944 31 January. 1945'. AE2 in the First World War; selected German. American and raid which GLAMORGAN supported. All the Exocet attacks on the Battle Group are included, culminating with the precious little relating to the massive array of weapons carried The highest tally of 'kills' for that three month period was Japanese submarine losses in the Second World War; a desperate fight to save the ship, which came perilously close and used by the surface ships, submarines and aircraft of the the 114 Kamikaze aircraft which fell to 40mm Bofors guns selection of Cold War casualties (including the US Navy's to sinking. The aftermath and the traumatic stress experienced world's Navies. with an average of 2,272 rounds per aircraft. It was interesting nuclear submarine SCORPION, which imploded after by those who lost shipmates brings home the gruesome reality This large 404 page book is absolutely crammed with lo note that the normal 5-inch/127mm shell averaged 1.162 encountering a hot-running torpedo), and of course, the loss of of war. information and can only be described as an encyclopaedia. It rounds per aircraft whilst the VT (variable time fuze) 5- the KURSK under the Barents Sea. Written by one who experienced at first hand that reality. contains more than 500 illustrations including 223 good This is unmistakably a 'coffee-table book' in both format inch/127mm round averaged 310 rounds per aircraft. There Ordeal by Exocet vividly recalls the war in the South Atlantic quality photographs and detailed plans and drawings along and content. As such, the real gem in this publication is the was certainly a message there! twenty years on and brings to light many aspects which were with more that 350 spec ification tables. artwork and photography, from cutaway profile drawings and There is an 'Aussie' presence in the Great Britain section then unknown to an unsuspecting public. A gripping read for The author, the late renowned author John Campbell, was with a photo of one of the Tribal-class destroyer HMAS period photographs lo computer-generated artwork and historian, enthusiast and general reader alike. While being a recognised authority on naval weaponry and this book is the WARRAMUNGA'S 4.7-inch/120mm twin CPXIX mountings impressive underwater photography. Unfortunately, those expensive for a paperback this book will make a valuable culmination of a lifetime's research and is a fitting and lasting which were powered by a 140hp steam turbine and oil wishing to find a detailed account of submarine operations and addition to any Falklands War library or history of modem memory to his lifetime of research on the subject. hydraulic pump. losses may need to look elsewhere. However, the combination naval warfare. THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY VOL. 65 NO. 2 31 SI VI KMI N I ol POLICE \,U S I , .1 III 'I \ i-l The strategic background to Australia's security has ensure that, in conjunction with the RAAF. this can changed in recent decades and in some respects become be achieved against any force which could be more uncertain. The l-cague believes it is essential that deployed in our general area. Australia develops capability to defend itself, paying • Is concerned that the offensive and defensive particular attention to maritime defence. Australia is. of capability of (he RAN has decreased markedly in geographical necessity, a maritime nation whose prosperity recent decades and (hai with the paying-off of the strength and safety depend to a great extent on the security DDGs. the Fleet will lack air defence and have a of the surrounding ocean and island areas, and on seaborne reduced capability for support of ground forces. trade • Advocates the very early acquisition of the new The Navy League: destroyers as foreshadowed in the Defence While • Believes Australia can be defended against attack Paper 2. by other than a super or major maritime power and • Advocates the acquisition of long-range precision that the prime requirement of our defence is an weapons to increase the present limited power evident ability to control the sea and air space projection, support and deterrent capability of the around us and to contribute to defending essential RAN. lines of sea and air communication to our allies. • Advocates the acquisition of the GLOBAL HAWK • Supports the ANZUS Treaty and the future unmanned surveillance aircraft primarily lor reintegration of New Zealand as a full partner. offshore surveillance. • Urges a close relationship with the nearer ASEAN • Advocates the acquisition of sufficient Australian- countries. PNG and the Island States of the South built afloat support ships to support two naval task Pacific. forces with such ships having design flexibility and • Advocates a defence capability which is commonality of build. knowledge-based with a prime consideration given to intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. • Advocates the acquisition at an earls dale of • Advocates the acquisition of the most modern integrated air power in the fleet to ensure (hat ADF armaments and sensors to ensure that the ADF deployments can be fully defended and supported maintains some technological advantages over from (he sea forces in our general area. • Advocates that all Australian warships should be • Believes there must be a significant deterrent equipped with some form of defence against element in the Australian Defence force (ADF) missiles. capable of powerful retaliation at considerable • Advocates that in any future submarine distances from Australia. construction program all forms of propulsion be • Believes the ADF must have the capability to examined with a view to selecting the most protect essential shipping at considerable distances advantageous operationally. from Australia, as well as in coastal waters. • Advocates the acquisition of an additional 2 or 3 • Supports the concept of a strong modern Air Force updated Collins class submarines. and high.y mobile Army, capable of island and • Supports the maintenance and continuing jungle warfare as well as the defence of Northern development of the mine-countermeasures force Australia. and a modern hydrographic/oceanographic • Supports the development of amphibious forces to capability. ensure the security of our offshore territories and to • Supports the maintenance of an enlarged, flexible enable assistance to be provided by sea as well as by patrol boat fleet capable of operating in severe sea air to friendly island states in our area. states. • Endorses the transfer of responsibility for the co- • Advocates the retention in a Reserve Fleet of Naval ordination of Coastal Surveillance to the defence vessels of potential value in defence emergent y. force and the development of the capability for • Supports (he maintenance of a strong Naval patrol and surveillance of the ocean areas all around Reserve to help crew vessels and aircraft in reserve, the Australian coast and island territories, including or taken up for service, and for specialised tasks in the Southern Ocean. time of defence emergency. • Advocates measures to foster a build-up of • Supports the maintenance of a strong Australian Australian-owned shipping to ensure the carriage of essential cargoes in war. Navy Cadets organisation. • Advocates the development of a defence industry The League: supported by strong research and design Calls for a bipartisan political approach to natioi..'* organisations capable of constructing all needed defence with a commitment to a steady long-term build-un types of warships and support vessels and of in our national defence capability including the required providing systems and senior integration with industrial infrastructure. through-life support. While recognising current economic problems and As to the RAN. the League: budgetary constraints, believes that, given leadership by • Supports the concept of a Navy capable of effective successive governments. Australia can defend itself in the action off both East and West coasts simultaneously longer term within acceptable financial, economic and and advocates a gradual build up of the Fleet to manpower parameters. 32 VOL 65 NO. 2 THE NAVY V, INC AT in Ihe Gulf. Two of Ihe Tasinunian company's High Speed Catamarans on lease lo Ihe U.S. Navy and U.S Army MI together pier side under the watchful eye of both the U.S. and Kuwaiti harbour patrol Kn.tn left, the USN's Joint Venture (HSV-XII and Ihe US Army's Spearhead (TSV-IX) The vessel's impressive speed can move troops and equipment into a theatre of operations quicker than currently used military transport vehicles. The ability lo carry such loads is a considerable sav ings in both lime and money when compared lo using military and commercial aircraft. Operation hndunng Freedom is Ihe first time the cralt have hcen deployed together in support of military operations USN 1 HI*M . A-J- / * i / - a The Nimit/diKtaT .u' . ' SS'.I ') l('VV73i pjNMrik1 h> the 0 WISCONSIN HB M transit up the Ith/uhcih Rnu \ N.i\al Shim aril m Knn\tnnuih VJ. I s\ \II aerial phi Ho ol the I \ Secuntv C 'mmcil Coalition ships ilrom tell in right • MM \S |)\K\\|\ the I S\ \rlcij:h litirkc class ik*siio\er I'SS PA I I HAMILTON, the Spruanee class ilcsimw r 1 SS I I I I (HI K I INI \s \N/ \( ami the Hrilish Kmal Na\> l>|v 42 ilcsir..\ct IIMS ('ARI)ltI I he Sccurit) ( 011111111 nalitmn ships .11c cniulucting Maritime Inlcnlklmn c >pcralmiis 1 \||( h .igjnisi li.u| In tint onl\ stop Iraq sclluie innic nil than it is allowed 1 although il 1- allowed In sell as much nil .IN it likes 111 exchange Inr I«HSI and iiicdiciitei hut to also slnp kuitied J!»HHIS Ironi entering lr.u| that it ohiUI use lm wcapniis iiianulacturiiig il SNi