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Royal Australian Navy Captain Phillipa Hay has become the first Australian woman appointed to command a task force in the 49-year history of Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC).
In a historic position, Hay is the first non-US military woman to lead a RIMPAC task force, following only retired US Navy Vice Admiral Nora Tyson, former Commander, US Third Fleet. Tyson held the position of Commander, Combined Task Force during RIMPAC 2016.
From 17-31 August, Hay will command more than 2,500 Sailors and officers across 11 warships from Australia, Canada, France, Japan, the Republic of the Philippines, and the US.
CAPT Hay acknowledged the honour of being the first non-US female military officer appointed to the role, but preferred to focus on representing the men and women of the RAN and leading her task force.
"RIMPAC is a test of Australia’s maritime military capability, from warfighting exercises to the missile firings. It provides complex and challenging training in a multinational environment, perfect for strengthening interoperability with our regional partners and allies," CAPT Hay explained.
CAPT Hay joined the Royal Australian Navy in 1993 and was selected for an exchange with the US Navy on board Spruance Class destroyer USS John Young (DD-973) as part of the Middle East Force. She was the first female to qualify as an Australian ship’s diver, and the first female to serve in the Australian Minor War Vessel Sea Training Group.
Last year, Hay also became the inaugural task group commander of Australia’s regional engagement mission in the south-west Pacific. She said she has found her niche in the RAN, which affords its people the room to succeed regardless of gender, sexuality or religion.
CAPT Hay added, "In the Royal Australian Navy, there are no limitations. We pride ourselves on richness of diversity and being a reflection of the Australian community. I look around and see only proud Sailors and officers serving the RAN and Australia. I hope my journey serves as an inspiration to all who wish to serve."
Since 1971, Australia’s participation in RIMPAC has helped foster and sustain the partnerships that secure a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
This year, HMA Ships Hobart, Stuart, Arunta and Sirius are taking part in RIMPAC as part of their Regional Presence Deployment through south-east Asia and the Pacific.
Ten nations, 22 surface ships, one submarine, multiple aircraft, and approximately 5300 personnel are participating in RIMPAC this year. This year’s exercise includes forces from Australia, Brunei, Canada, France, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, and the US.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
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