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The RAN destroyer has been deployed in support of a multinational task group at Exercise Talisman Sabre for the first time.
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The Royal Australian Navy’s Hobart Class destroyer, HMAS Brisbane, has commenced its inaugural deployment as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre (TS21), serving as air and missile defence commander, responsible for defending the multinational task group from enemy aircraft and missiles.
The ship has also been tasked with providing air-control services to deconflict aircraft movements within the exercise area.
Commanding Officer Brisbane Commander Aaron Cox noted the significance of the guided missile destroyer’s (DDG) participation in the major interop ability exercise.
“As this is the first time that a Hobart Class DDG has conducted Exercise Talisman Sabre, the ship’s company looks forward to showcasing the Navy’s new class of warship,” he said.
“Having just reached final operational capability, the Hobart Class is among the most advanced warships operated by the Royal Australian Navy.”
The destroyer joined the exercise from Fleet Base East in Sydney alongside Japan’s JS Makinami, South Korea’s ROKS Wang Geon and Anzac Class frigate HMAS Parramatta.
En route to TS21, the ships engaged in maritime manoeuvres and replenishment-at-sea approaches (RASAP) in preparation for replenishments with the US Navy oiler USS Rappahannock.
“Other ships will approach from close astern and settle alongside at 120 to 150 feet from the guide,” CMDR Cox explained.
“The approach ship is responsible for matching the course and speed of the guide to ensure fuel lines can be passed across safely.
“The ability to replenish while at sea means that ships are able to remain on-station for longer, without the need to return to a port to receive fuel, supplies, ammunition or spare parts.”
TS21, predominately an exercise between Australia and the US, involves a field training exercise incorporating force preparation (logistic) activities, amphibious landings, ground force manoeuvre, urban operations, air combat and maritime operations.
Other nations joining the exercise include the UK, Canada and New Zealand, and observer nations France and India.
Most of the international forces will take part exclusively offshore, with 5,000 personnel participating as part of a US Navy Expeditionary Strike Group.
Defence bases and a range of training areas across central and north-east Queensland will host the exercises.
The exercise will run over the coming weeks, wrapping up on 31 July.
[Related: Warships, attack helicopters showcase firepower at TS21]
