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issue 205 NoVEMBER 2016
Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
Royal
New Zealand
Navy
International
Naval Review
#KiwiNavy75th I nznavy75.co.nz
T e Ta u a M o a n a – wa r r i o r s o f t h e s e a1
Sponsor acknowledgement
The Royal New Zealand Navy gratefully acknowledges the support of its family of sponsors.
PRESENTING PARTNER, OPERATION NEPTUNE
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
TM
2 NAVY 75th ANNIVERSARY SPONSORS
Haere Mai and
welcome to the
November Edition
of Navy Today.
T he prime focus of the edition is to feature the
International Naval Review. During this year we have
honoured the people that have served in our Naval Forces
over the past decades; we have celebrated the country’s
DIRECTORY
commitment to their navy; and, we look forward to a maritime century full of challenge and
Published to inform, inspire and entertain
serving and former members of the RNZN,
opportunity. This month we are honoured and privileged to host Her Excellency the Governor
their families and friends and the wider General, The Right Honourable Dame Patsy Reddy, GNZM, QSO as she reviews the fleet of the
Navy community.
RNZN and the ships of our visitors, friends and allies. We are fortunate to enjoy the support of
Navy Today is the official magazine of the
Royal New Zealand Navy. Published by
the Minister of Defence, the Hon Gerry Brownlee who will join us for much of the celebrations.
Defence Public Affairs, Wellington.
Navy Today is now in its twentieth year To our friends who have travelled here over sea many miles, to the visiting Chiefs of Navy’s and
of publication. their representatives, to those who participate in the Naval review with Aircraft, Ships, bands
Views expressed in Navy Today are not and support by their presence – we say welcome and thank you. We hope that your stay is
necessarily those of the RNZN or the NZDF.
enjoyable and you take home great memories of Aotearoa – New Zealand.
Contributions are welcomed, including
stories, photographs and letters. Please
Finally, to the Navy; regular, reservists and civilians – you are building the future of the navy
submit stories and letters by email in
Microsoft Word or the body of an email. with your efforts in the Southern Ocean, South West Pacific, in RIMPAC, South East Asia, on
Articles up to 500 words welcomed, longer
if required by the subject. Please consult the
the water, under and over the water. Your efforts during the INR will enhance our reputation
editor about long articles. Digital photos with the People of New Zealand, our friends and allies, our family and Whanau. Kia tu kaha,
submitted by email also welcomed, at least
Kia tu Maia, kia tu Heramana e!
500kb preferred.
COPY DEADLINES FOR NT Welcome to you all – we hope you enjoy the International Naval Review.
5PM AS FOLLOWS:
NT 206 December issue 15 November
NT 207 February issue 15 January
NT 208 March issue 15 February
Subject to change.
EDITOR: Chief of Navy
Andrew Bonallack
Rear Admiral John Martin
Defence Public Affairs
HQ NZ Defence Force
Private Bag, Wellington, New Zealand
E: navytoday@nzdf.mil.nz
DESIGN & LAYOUT:
Defence Public Affairs
contents NAVY TODAY ISSUE 205 2016
PRINT:
As part of a Government multi-agency
04 messages
initiative the NZDF has changed to a single
provider for all of its Print Services.
This magazine is now printed by Blue Star.
08 visiting countries
issue 205 NoVEMBER 2016
Feedback to rick.derham@nzdf.mil.nz on
the quality of this publication is welcomed.
10 our history
INQUIRIES TO:
Defence Public Affairs 14 our fleet
P: (04) 496 0270 F: (04) 496 0290
Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
Director Defence Public Affairs
18
Royal
P: (04) 496 0299 F: (04) 496 0290 programme New Zealand
Navy
International
Naval Review
Defence Careers:
P: 0800 1FORCE (0800 136 723) 20 list of ships
www.defencecareers.mil.nz #KiwiNavy75th i NzNavy75.co.Nz
CHANGING ADDRESS? 26 our 75TH year
T e Ta u a M o a n a – wa r r i o r s o f T h e s e a1
To join or leave our mailing list,
please contact:
cover image:
E: navytoday@nzdf.mil.nz 30 our future HMNZS OTAGO (front) and
HMNZS TE KAHA.
34 partnership
YOURS AYE 3
Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
Special message from
The Governor-General of New Zealand
Kia ora tatou
I
am delighted to send a message of congratulations to the Royal
New Zealand Navy as it nears the conclusion of the NEPTUNE
75th anniversary programme. I look forward to joining other New
Zealanders to witness the grand finale, the International Naval Review
on 19 November.
This year, New Zealanders have had occasion to be reminded of the
times when our sailors and ships have fought in the service of our
country – and to mourn those who died in battle, in particular the
crew of HMS Neptune.
We have remembered how the Navy was on hand to support their
fellow citizens following the 1931 Napier earthquake and, 80 years
later, after the Canterbury earthquake.
We have recalled the occasions when our RNZN personnel have
gone to the aid of our Pacific neighbours, providing humanitarian
relief following natural disasters, or supporting sustainable fisheries
management.
As New Zealand’s third female Governor-General, I am particularly
pleased to know that our Navy was one of the first to have women
serve on ships at sea, 30 years ago – and to know that they now
make up 23.5 percent of the Navy. It’s also pleasing to see increasing
representation of the diverse cultures in 21st century New Zealand.
Congratulations to our Navy personnel, past and present, for 75 years
of honourable and loyal service, and I look forward to sharing your
celebrations in November.
I wish you all fair winds and following seas.
The Right Honourable Dame Patsy Reddy, GNZM, QSO
Below: Dame Patsy Reddy and Guard Commander Lieutenant Commander
Kerry Tutty, during her swearing-in ceremony. Governor-General of New Zealand
4 MESSAGES
Special message from
The Minister of Defence
N
ew Zealand’s isolation reasons we have a Navy are broadly the same, the types of situations,
means we are a maritime emergencies and conflicts the Navy must be able to respond to have
nation. Our Exclusive changed over time. This is why the Navy of today is more integrated
Economic Zone is the fourth into the New Zealand Defence Force than ever before, and our sailors,
largest in the world and with this soldiers and airmen spend significant amounts of time preparing to
maritime domain comes significant maintain security and safety in our region.
Defence Minister Gerry Brownlee. responsibility. For example, our
I know the Navy is well prepared for the challenges of the future
Search and Rescue zone covers 11 per cent of the planet, and 99
and will continue to play a vital role in defending the interests of our
per cent of our trade still travels by sea. We therefore place a
nation. I’m looking forward to the Navy’s 75th commemorations and
great importance on freedom of navigation and maintaining open
remembering those who have served our nation at sea.
trading routes.
I’m proud of the Navy that we have today, and I would like to thank
The Royal New Zealand Navy may only have received its Royal
the men and women who serve our nation with courage, commitment
Warrant in 1941, but the Navy has been instrumental in protecting
and comradeship. Our nation is grateful. Thank you for your service.
these maritime freedoms for much longer than that. This started at
the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, and has continued through Hon Gerry Brownlee
to the modern and versatile Navy we have today. And while the Minister of Defence
Special message from
The Chief of Navy
O
ur Navy is officially 75 rise and pressure and competition for resources will intensify.
years old and it’s been an
These pressures mean we must provide to the Government and the
eventful 75 years at that.
people of New Zealand credible, sustainable options at all times.
Our Navy and our people have done
Naturally, they expect us to achieve great things in some of the
extraordinary things; are doing
harshest environments known to mankind, they expect us to be an
extraordinary things or will continue
exemplary training institution and they expect us to enable other
to do them in the future.
Government departments to be able to achieve their mission.
It’s been a busy 75 years. A period
These expectations won’t change in the years ahead, but how we
that underscores the wisdom of the people of New Zealand who
meet them will.
established our Navy and set it to task; initially during the dark
days of the Second World War, to counter the threat of invasion and Technology is providing us with a fantastic opportunity to achieve
counter the mine threat in our waters, patrol the hostile waters of the more than we ever have before. Therefore ensuring we bring the right
Solomon Islands and eventually assist in successfully concluding the technology into service is a key component to building New Zealand’s
War. Only a decade or so later our ships were patrolling the waters future Navy.
of the Korean Peninsula. And while the limelight is so often turned We also need to make sure we have the right people on board,
towards witnessing nuclear testing, or more recently conducting anti- and as the demographics of New Zealand change, so must the
terrorism operations, keeping international waters free from piracy, or demographics of the Navy. We must remain truly representative of
racing to the aid of people affected by disaster, it’s the mundane that the people we serve.
has shaped our Navy. Over the years we just got on with surveying
Finally we will build on the already close integration with the Army
our coastline, resupplying our offshore islands, training thousands of
and Air Force, to become better team-mates with other government
young New Zealanders and preparing them for rewarding careers.
agencies and our international security partners. Because if there is
The next 75 years, even the next 10 years, promises to be busy for one thing that history shows us, it’s that by working together we can
your Navy and our challenge in our 75th year is to take our solid achieve more.
foundations and use this moment to create a Navy for the future.
Therefore, it is important that in our 75th year, we pause to take stock
Our leaders are well prepared for the task and have already started of our history. Remember those who have served our Navy and gave
transforming our Navy so that it can operate the ships that will enter their lives for the freedoms we enjoy. And that we cast our mind to
service through the decades to come. the future to ensure our Navy is as relevant and valued tomorrow as it
has been throughout history.
Our ships of tomorrow must be capable of operating in the vastly
different world we expect. A world where small interest groups have Rear Admiral John Martin
the power to disrupt stability and trade, where sea levels continue to Chief of Navy
MESSAGES 5
Special events and moments at
The Kawasaki P-1 patrol aircraft A P-3K2 Orion from 5 Squadron
from the Japanese Maritime RNZAF. There will be Orions
Self-Defense Force. from other countries participating
as well.
The Cloud on
Queen’s Wharf.
Right: Faces from the past (and
their cats), captured by Navy
photographer Tudor Collins.
WHAT’S ON
AT THE CLOUD
F
rom November 18 to 20, The Cloud on Queen’s Wharf
will be the exhibition centrepiece of the International
Naval Review, telling “Our Story” to the public and
Above: The Royal Marines Band Service. PHOTO CREDIT: Navy News (UK)
visiting sailors. Visitors to The Cloud can expect a multi-media
experience from the word go. The exhibitors have made the
most of the wealth of historic imagery from the Royal New
Zealand Navy’s Collections Unit, combined with modern
THE ROYAL MARINES BAND SERVICE
photography and documentary video. A highlight of the “Thousand-Sailor” street parade on Friday
November 18 will be a Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines,
A “history tunnel” will tell our story from the 1940s onwards, from the United Kingdom.
with large storyboards and imagery, plus video screens. At
the end a 6m by 3m LED screen will showcase the Navy’s Royal Marines Band Service members have to prove
contemporary duties, and show our mission and purpose today. themselves in basic military training first. After that, becoming
a band member involves up to two years and eight months of
Interactive exhibits include a Rigid immersion in musical performance, theory and rehearsal - and
Hulled Inflatable Boat (RHIB) set more rehearsal. The band plays at the highest level, for royalty,
up so that members of the public and are recognised world-wide for their professionalism and
can pose with Navy equipment talent. Highlights of their year would include the Edinburgh
in the seats, against a large Military Tattoo, in front of over 200,000 people. There are at
photo of a sea backdrop with present five Royal Marine Bands and a Corps of Drums.
HMNZS WELLINGTON in the
background. Look out for the distinctive band in Division 3 of the march,
which features the contingents from visiting ships.
Right: A RHIB with a sea poster background
will be set up in The Cloud for photo poses.
6 SPECIAL EVENTS
Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
the INR
FLYPAST
While the formality of the International Naval Review gets
underway, cast your eyes skyward on Saturday November 19.
On the harbour, the Governor-General, Dame Patsy Reddy,
will conduct the formal review on board a RNZN vessel as she
passes alongside a line of moored visiting ships.
But the variety of aircraft and helicopters involved in the
International Naval Review aren’t about to miss out, and
aircraft spotters are in for a treat. A steady run of aircraft,
in intervals, will do a flypast above the ships.
Above: Sailors at the Navy’s birthday church service last month in
St Paul’s Church, Wellington.
DIVINE SERVICE
On Sunday November 20 at 2pm a Divine Service will
be hosted at the Holy Trinity Cathedral for Flag Officers
and designates from all nations. An estimated 500 naval
personnel and VIPs will be attending.
Above: Te Mana Bridge.
EXERCISES WITH OUR PARTNERS
It’s not just about dress whites and open days when Navies
come together.
Prior to the fleet entry on November 17 most of the ships
involved in the INR will participate in two exercises, MAHI
TANGAROA 16 and NGATAHI, in the Hauraki Gulf. MAHI
TANGAROA 16, which involves the ADMM-Plus (ASEAN
Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus) countries, falls within one
of the six areas of practical cooperation being pursued by the
ASEAN and its eight Dialogue Partners – maritime security.
This multilateral maritime security exercise aims to enhance
maritime cooperation amongst regional partners. It also seeks
to further develop interoperability with maritime security
partners, strengthen relationships with them and provide
an opportunity to build relationships with other countries /
navies. It demonstrates the NZDF’s commitment to enhance
cooperation throughout the Pacific and Asian region.
NGATAHI, running parallel, is tailored training designed
to test and enhance the maritime warfare competencies of
participating countries.
Auckland’s Holy Trinity Cathedral.
SPECIAL EVENTS 7
Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
4
2
8
7
15 11
20
6 19
9
17
12
3
16
10
18 14
13
5
1
Visiting Countries
1 4 6 9
AUSTRALIA CANADA CHINA INDIA
Our most important and enduring New Zealand and Canada cooperate New Zealand has worked with the New Zealand enjoys a good
defence partnership with Australia closely in all aspects of defence People’s Liberation Army Navy relationship with India. Both
is a legacy grounded in blood, from relations, drawing on a history of Task Force in joint exercises that countries enjoy mutual ship visits
the birth of the Anzac soldier on shared success in wartime and include Australia and Association of and staff college exchanges, and
the fields of Gallipoli, Belgium and peace. Canada and New Zealand Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) both our Anzac frigates have been
France in WWI. Today, as we honour have worked together on numerous partners, such as Exercise Tropic visitors in recent years, notably TE
the Anzac Centenary, Defence international security operations, Twilight in the Cook Islands. In KAHA on her way back home from
chiefs of both countries engage including Timor-Leste, Bosnia 2015 New Zealand broke new ground anti-piracy operations. In 2011 the
on the highest levels of mutual and Afghanistan. New Zealand in brokering a Five Year Engagement Prime Ministers of both countries
interest in defence. Both countries and Canadian sailors have regular Plan between the NZDF and the made strong statements about
are members of the Five Powers exchanges aboard ships. Both our People’s Liberation Army. Chinese strengthening bilateral defence
Defence Arrangements. Ships frigates will go to Lockheed Martin ships last visited New Zealand in cooperation.
frequently visit each country, and Canada, from next year, for a October 2013, when the destroyer
engage in joint military exercises. systems upgrade. QINGDAO, frigate LINYI and supply 10
vessel HONGZEHU were hosted in Indonesia
2 5 Auckland. A country straddling the equator
BRITAIN CHILE comprising more than 13,670 islands
7
Britain will not be sending a vessel New Zealand has a strong (6000 inhabited) can make good
to the INR, but their Chief of Naval relationship with Chile as Pacific FRANCE use of a large Navy. Indonesia has
Staff and First Sea Lord, Admiral neighbours. New Zealand, Chile, New Zealand and France share a fleet strength of 165 vessels and
Sir Philip Jones, is a Distinguished Singapore and Brunei joined in a free strong mutual interests in the 65,000 personnel, including 20,000
Visitor for our International Naval trade agreement, the Trans-Pacific Pacific region, including cooperation Marines, according to Jane’s Fighting
Review. The Royal Navy is also Strategic Economic Partnership, on maritime surveillance, joint Ships 2016.
committing the famous Royal over 10 years ago, and are likely to defence exercises, disaster relief Concerns over human rights
Marines Band Service to the continue this with the Trans-Pacific and development, and the closer records in East Timor affected
“thousand sailor march” down Partnership (TPP). Both Chile integration of the French Pacific defence cooperation in the
Queen St on Friday November 18. and New Zealand work together territories within the region. We mid-1990s. Reforms since then
on fisheries issues in the Pacific, have a Status of Forces Agreement, have resulted in a modest level of
3 both have interests in Antarctica, signed in May 2014. This supports defence cooperation, focused on
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM and both have mutual interests in our strong ongoing defence education, non-combat training
Our strong defence relationship is tsumani warning systems. In 1996 cooperation in the Pacific. and cooperation in humanitarian
mainly based around training. We a Naval Cooperation Agreement operations, as well as navy-to-navy
was established to facilitate the 8
take part in joint military training engagement.
exercises, and New Zealand provides exchange of information between GERMANY
training assistance under the Mutual both countries’ navies. Germany and New Zealand have
Assistance Programme (MAP), which a close relationship largely based
also gives our troops opportunities on trade, commerce and cultural
to train in Brunei’s jungle. exchange. It is a $1 billion market for
New Zealand exports, particularly in
venison and sheep meat.
8 VISITING COUNTRIES
11 16
JAPAN SINGAPORE
Our Pacific Naval relationship with providing the platforms for Pacific The Republic of Singapore Navy Memorandum of Understanding,
Japan goes back to 1882, when nations to undertake maritime (RSN) and our Navy regularly signed in 2013, which includes
Japanese ships began making security in their Exclusive Economic conduct professional exchanges, mutual cooperation on maritime
goodwill visits, up until the 1930s. Zones (EEZ), and open ocean visits and multilateral exercises, security in the region and receiving
In modern times Japan and New fishing compliance with existing as part of the Five Power Defence of RNZN ships to Vietnam.
Zealand have had numerous port international treaties. Arrangements (United Kingdom,
exchanges. Today, New Zealand has Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and 20
a “strategic cooperative partnership” 14 New Zealand) and the Western UNITED STATES
with Japan that includes the signing PAPUA NEW GUINEA Pacific Naval Symposium (21 The history that lies behind the
of a Memorandum of Intent on New Zealand has a strong defence member states). Last month the Five first US ship to visit New Zealand
Defence Cooperation in 2013. relationship with Papua New Guinea Powers came together for Exercise in 33 years is inescapable. In the
through leader engagement, training BERSAMA LIMA, in the South China seventies, public opinion in New
12 Sea area.
and exercises, and supports the Zealand was turning against nuclear
MALAYSIA Papua New Guinea Defence Force power, seen visibly with protests
17
We have a close and significant in becoming a strong national against submarines USS PINTADO
relationship with Malaysia including institution that contributes to its THAILAND in 1978, USS HADDO in 1979, USS
strong ties in trade, education society. New Zealand and Thailand TRUXTUN and USS LONG BEACH
and security, notably with co- cooperate on police issues and in 1976, and notably USS TEXAS in
membership in the Five Power 15 regional defence issues, engaging on 1983. When David Lange’s Labour
Defence Arrangements. Our two REPUBLIC OF KOREA forums such as the ASEAN Defence Government swept into power with
countries have a history of friendly New Zealand’s political, economic Ministers’ Meeting Plus. an anti-nuclear ticket in 1984, there
and constructive links based and security links with Korea date was little room for manoeuvre.
on a shared membership of the 18 The government turned down a
back to the Korean War (1950-53)
Commonwealth, the Colombo Plan during which 6,000 New Zealanders TIMOR-LESTE visit from USS BUCHANAN in
and shared security interests as part served and 45 lost their lives. New New Zealand made a significant 1985, resulting in the severing of
of the Asia-Pacific region. Zealand continues to support efforts historic defence and security intelligence and military ties with
to bring peace and security to the contribution to Timor-Leste’s New Zealand.
13
Korean Peninsula and frequently establishment as a new nation from Fast-forward 33 years. New Zealand
PACIFIC ISLANDS engages with Korea on military 1999 to 2002, and following the and America have reinstated
New Zealand and Australia’s exercises, ship visits, defence talks internal conflict of 2006. Today, virtually all aspects of their defence
strategic presence in the Pacific is and exchanges. our military and police are less relationship. Chief of Navy RADM
enhanced through close ties with its South Korea has a large Navy, involved and the focus has turned John Martin told USNI News,
Pacific neighbours. The international a suitable advertisement for its to supporting Timor-Leste’s growth during the International Seapower
community expects both countries substantial defence and shipbuilding into a stable, democratic and Symposium in the United States in
to take the lead on security and capability, which includes the word’s prosperous nation. September, that “the nuclear ship
stability in the Pacific. Small island largest shipbuilding company, issue was behind us”. He says the
nations are reliant on New Zealand 19 visit is a “great step forward in
Hyundai Heavy Industries. New
and Australia for trade, resources, Zealand’s latest naval tanker will be
VIETNAM navy-to-navy relations” and he
aid and assistance. The Royal New built there. Vietnam and New Zealand have hoped the visits would become a
Zealand Navy’s major input is a bilateral defence cooperation regular activity.
VISITING COUNTRIES 9
Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
75 Years 75 Objects
Log Wavy Navy
At some point during their training, most sailors will have an On 1 October 1941, the Kiwi
intimate relationship with the log. “Stand by. Pick. Up. The. Log,” Navy waved goodbye to its
will be the order given by the Physical Training Instructor. former self and said hello to
Trainees respond by picking up the log in stages while shouting, its new incarnation, the Royal
“Down 2 3. Up 2 3. Lift”. New Zealand Navy. Before
On “lift” the log is raised above the trainees’ heads. then the Service had been an
The log is then transferred from shoulder to arm of Britain’s Royal Navy.
shoulder; timing and teamwork is essential. Simultaneously, the Royal New
Trainees also run in step with the log Zealand Navy Volunteer Reserve
on their shoulders. Keeping in (RNZNVR) was established – or
step is the only way not the Wavy Navy, as some called
to get a bruise on your it. The nickname came from the
shoulder or chin. undulating lace on the sleeve of
officers’ jackets. Between 1951
and 52, this design changed to
straight lines of lace with an “R”
for “Reserves”.
A SHORT HISTORY OF THE ROYAL NEW ZEALAND NAVY, 1941–2016
T
his year marks the 75th Anniversary of the foundation of the World War II in the Pacific
Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN). It was on 1 October 1941, Following Japan’s onslaught through the Pacific in 1941-42, the New
when His Majesty King George VI approved the designation Zealand cruisers ACHILLES and LEANDER were integrated into US
“Royal New Zealand Navy” for the New Zealand Division of Navy’s South Pacific Command. Following the initial US-led counter-
the Royal Navy. Since then, the history of our Navy’s service to offensive at Guadalcanal on 7 August 1942, the cruisers were used to
our nation is a proud one. It honours the men and women who escort American troopships. They soon became involved in fighting in
faced extraordinary situations in peace and war with courage, and around the Solomons Islands, and were damaged and had to be
commitment, and a spirit of comradeship that is so very evident in withdrawn for repairs.
our modern Navy of today.
Afterwards, New Zealand’s naval effort in the Solomon Islands
A Tragic Beginning campaign was limited to minesweepers and motor launches. In
With the foundation of our navy coinciding with the Second World December 1942 four minesweeper trawlers were deployed to
War, the change from the New Zealand Division of the Royal Navy Guadalcanal to conduct anti-submarine operations. Working from
to the RNZN made little difference operationally at the time, a base on Tulagi, on 29 January 1943, KIWI and MOA destroyed the
though New Zealand vessels now became His Majesty’s New Japanese submarine I-1 off Guadalcanal. KIWI had to return to New
Zealand Ship (HMNZS), rather than His Majesty’s Ship (HMS). As Zealand for repairs after ramming the submarine, and was replaced by
with the First World War, New Zealand’s contribution to the war the converted coastal vessel GALE. In April 1943, MOA was sunk by a
effort was not confined to its own naval vessels. It also included bomb in Tulagi harbour, with the loss of five lives. In March 1944 twelve
the provision of large numbers of men to serve in the Royal Fairmile launches were sent to the Solomons Islands and remained in
Navy. The worst disaster involving New Zealand naval personnel service in the region until the end of the war.
occurred on 18 December 1941 when HMS NEPTUNE, which was
The US South Pacific Command initially set up its headquarters in
being prepared to join the RNZN, sank after hitting a mine off
Auckland. The subsequent influx of American forces into New Zealand
Tripoli in the Mediterranean Sea. Despite rescue attempts, all but
ignited major construction and redevelopment of the naval base in
one of the 764 Ship’s Company were lost. Amongst them were
Devonport. At the same time, the increased demand for men to crew
150 New Zealanders. It remains the greatest single loss of life in
warships led to the creation of the Women’s Royal New Zealand Naval
New Zealand naval operations history. The wreck of the NEPTUNE
Service (WRNZNS) in 1942. The WRNZNS eventually reached a peak of
has been located and those New Zealanders who perished are
519 women and made substantial contributions to naval intelligence
remembered on the HMNZS PHILOMEL Memorial Wall inside the
and signalling services. They also completed driver, command centre
Devonport Naval Base in Auckland.
10 OUR NAVAL HISTORY75 Years 75 Objects
Land and Sea
New Zealand naval personnel have deployed in Cambodia, the
former Yugoslavia, Iraq, Afghanistan and East Timor. For many
naval officers much of their naval careers have been spent in a land
environment, working with multinational agencies.
The Disruptive Pattern Material (or DPM) slides use the design from
the old Army Green camouflage uniform. The Desert Disruptive
Pattern Material (or DDPM) are designed after the desert camouflage
uniform. And of course, the black background with gold stripes are
what officers wear on their traditional blue or white Navy uniforms.
Creating Trust
This image depicts HMNZS WAIKATO’s Commanding Officer
Commander David Ledson and the ship’s cultural group ashore
at Bougainville in 1990. They were there along with the frigate
HMNZS WELLINGTON and the tanker HMNZS ENDEAVOUR on a
peace mission.
There had been a long period of conflict between the Bougainville
Liberation Army and Papua New Guinea National Forces. There
was initially tension when WAIKATO arrived at Bougainville.
Commander Ledson, decided to go ashore unarmed. After the
ship’s cultural group presented a haka, the ice was broken.
watchkeeper, and other shore-based roles, through until the WRNZNS still based around the two cruisers. This was followed by the
were disbanded after the war. acquisition of the survey vessel LACHLAN in 1949.
By the end of 1944 the Royal Navy had returned to the Pacific. The Middle East commitment and the Korean War
cruisers ACHILLES and GAMBIA (which replaced LEANDER in 1943) At the end of the 1940s, the onset of the Cold War saw a shift in New
and the corvette ARBUTUS, served as part of the British Pacific Fleet Zealand’s strategic interests. Much of this was centred on preparing
that served alongside US forces until the Japanese were defeated in to fulfil the so-called Middle East pledge, which was a promise to
1945. Many New Zealand naval aviators also flew off British aircraft provide forces immediately for the defence of Egypt in the event of
carriers during this campaign. GAMBIA, which remains the largest war with the Soviet Union. The government promised to send all
warship to have served with the RNZN, was also present in Tokyo Bay surplus naval capacity to the region. Readiness was enhanced by
when Japan formally surrendered aboard USS MISSOURI. the exchange of frigates with the Royal Navy’s Mediterranean Fleet
The strength of the RNZN and Volunteer Reserves peaked at 10,500 in 1950. The outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, however, saw an
men and women in July 1945. Many of these served on ships in the immediate naval commitment into North Asia that stretched RNZN
Pacific, while others served with the Royal Navy in other parts of the resources to its limits.
world. A total of 524 Officers and Ratings were killed in naval service Two frigates, PUKAKI and TUTIRA, deployed immediately and
during the Second World War, and 65 became Prisoners of War. reached Korea in early August 1950. They began by escorting
ships between Japan and the South Korean port of Pusan. In mid-
Post-War Operations
September 1950 they were also involved in escorting troopships
The immediate post war period was one of rapid demobilisation as the to Incheon. The subsequent landing of United Nation forces
RNZN returned to peacetime levels. Like all of New Zealand’s armed transformed the war, and lead to the rapid liberation of South
services, the Navy faced difficulties in having to drastically reduce its Korea. All six frigates undertook tours of duty through until July
numbers and to reshape its post-war force. New cruisers BELLONA 1954. In all approximately 1300 RNZN personnel served in the
and BLACK PRINCE replaced ACHILLES and GAMBIA, but problems Korean War. Two men lost their lives, including one during a shore
with pay in 1947 led to a mutiny and the subsequent dismissal of raid made by ROTOITI on North Korea in August 1951.
200 ratings. This crisis in manpower led to the reintroduction of the
New Zealand’s commitment in Korea led it to joining with Australia
WRNZNS to free up men for sea service.
and United States in the ANZUS pact. It was the first time New
In 1948, the Frigate Era began when New Zealand took advantage Zealand had entered a defence relationship without Britain.
of so much wartime surplus equipment available and acquired six Showing a growing sense of independence in 1956, the government
wartime Loch-class antisubmarine frigates to supplement a force refused Britain permission to test its thermonuclear weapons
OUR NAVAL HISTORY 11Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
Navy’s Mystery Tours
After assisting at Christmas Island in 1957, New Zealand again sent
ships to nuclear tests in the Pacific fifteen years later. This time,
however, the country was protesting against French atmospheric
nuclear testing at Mururoa Atoll. Labour Prime Minister Norman Kirk
sent HMNZS CANTERBURY and OTAGO to oppose the tests.
This flag, made by Peter Mitchell and donated by Michael Bell,
is marked “Norm’s Mystery Tours.” It was flown by HMNZS
CANTERBURY as she sailed out of Auckland on her way to Mururoa
and again when she returned to Auckland. “Norm” referred to the
Above: Fraser Colman MP on HMNZS OTAGO at Mururoa. Prime Minister Norman Kirk.
to confront Great Britain and to intimidate the newly formed
in the Kermadec Islands, and also would not allow the cruiser
Federation of Malaysia. ROYALIST, TARANAKI, and OTAGO and the
ROYALIST to serve with the Royal Navy’s Mediterranean Fleet
minesweepers, HICKLETON and STANTON all completed patrols in
during the Suez Crisis.
the area at various stages during the Confrontation (1962-66). In June
Focus shifts to South East Asia 1966, the RNZN fired its guns in anger when HICKLETON engaged
By the mid-1950s New Zealand’s strategic interests were firmly armed Indonesian infiltrators.
focussed on Southeast Asia. The region became the focus of The NZ government chose not to commit any RNZN warships to the
our naval efforts through until the early 1970s. In 1955 New Vietnam War. Most of the 26 RNZN personnel who served in Vietnam
Zealand agreed to supply forces in peacetime for the British did so as part of a joint services medical unit, which operated in the
Commonwealth Strategic Reserve, which would provide the initial Binh Dinh province from 1967 until 1971.
response to any attack on the region by China. As a result, one
Frigate Operations and Support at Home
RNZN frigate was stationed in Singapore at all times. Although
intended to meet a ‘hot war’ situation, the reserve forces quickly In 1973 the frigate OTAGO was sent to Mururoa Atoll to protest
became involved in the Malayan Emergency. RNZN frigates against the atmospheric testing of French nuclear weapons. OTAGO
conducted anti-piracy and fisheries protection patrols off the observed the first test and was replaced on station by the new Leander
Malayan coast through until March 1961. During this time they also -class frigate CANTERBURY (commissioned in 1971). In the early 1980s
provided support to land forces, and were at times called upon to both OTAGO and TARANAKI were replaced by WELLINGTON and
bombard communist positions. SOUTHLAND giving the RNZN an all-Leander-class four-frigate force.
In 1982, during the Falklands War, the RNZN took over patrols in the
By the start of the 1960s, the RNZN required new warships for its Indian Ocean to free up Royal Navy vessels for service in the South
fleet. In 1962 the Rothesay-class frigates OTAGO and TARANAKI Atlantic. The government’s decision to break the ANZUS Treaty in 1985
were commissioned and were the first all-new major surface greatly affected the RNZN’s long standing training programme with the
combatants to serve with the RNZN. A Leander-class frigate United States Navy. At the time CANTERBURY was training with the
HMNZS WAIKATO—which was the first RNZN ship designed to US Navy in North America and was ordered to withdraw immediately.
embark a helicopter—was also acquired in 1966 to replace the
In 1985 the RNZN Operational Dive Team helped in the salvage of
RNZN’s last cruiser ROYALIST.
the RAINBOW WARRIOR, after it was sunk in Auckland Harbour
In 1962 the RNZN again became involved in Southeast Asian by French government operatives. They also provided assistance
conflict. Indonesia used a series of raids, commerce interdiction to help with the salvage of the Russian cruise liner, MIKHAIL
and minor skirmishes (known as ‘Konfrontasi’ (Confrontation)),
12 OUR NAVAL HISTORY75 Years 75 Objects
Wakey Wakey Wakey
These are the not so subtle tones of the Bosun’s Mate, who rouses
The Loveable Rat the ship’s company each morning. It is the first so-called ‘pipe’ of
each day, accompanied by the sound played on the bosun’s call.
This is Lieutenant Finnegan Rat, a loveable crew member whose
Today there are speakers throughout the ship, but announcements
hijinks in the service are legendary. Finnegan has been the victim
are still referred to as “pipes”.
of kidnappings from HMNZS WAIKATO, on which he is stationed.
He has served in the Persian Gulf with HMNZS TE MANA, and was
kidnapped in Fukuoka, Japan, by the Wardroom (officers’ mess) in These objects, and others like them, can be seen at the
HMNZS ENDEAVOUR.
National Museum of the Royal New Zealand Navy as
How he got to be on HMNZS TE KAHA remains a mystery, although part of their 75 Years, 75 Objects exhibition.
there is speculation that he suffered disorientation after shore leave.
LERMONTOV, which sunk in the Marlborough Sounds in 1986. In 1988, in frigates. By the end of the decade any remaining restrictions had
MANAWANUI, a new diving support tender with modern equipment, been abolished, allowing women to serve in the diving branch and
was commissioned into RNZN. MANAWANUI, and the Navy’s Littoral in all combat and peacekeeping operations.
Support Group (which includes Operational Dive, Mine clearance, and Increasing involvement in Peacekeeping Operations
Maritime Survey Units) remain key elements of RNZN to this day. In
The 1990s was a period where the participation of the RNZN in
1988 the RNZN’s first ever replenishment tanker, named ENDEAVOUR
peacekeeping operations greatly increased. RNZN personnel took
III, was commissioned into service. It was the first time a tanker had
part in land-based United Nations (UN) operations in the former
been operated as part of New Zealand naval forces since 1925, and it
Yugoslavia, and small craft operations on rivers in Cambodia. That
greatly enhanced the Navy’s ability to sustain its frigate operations
same year the RNZN would also play a key role in the attempt to
away from New Zealand. Despite these capability upgrades, the end of
make peace on Bougainville. The tanker ENDEAVOUR, supported
the Cold War in 1989 found the RNZN with a fleet in which most of its
by the frigates CANTERBURY and WAIKATO, was used as a neutral
frigates were nearing obsolescence.
meeting site for negotiations between the Papua New Guinean
To counter this problem the government committed in the early government and local rebels. RNZN ships and shore-based
1990’s to purchasing two new Anzac-class frigates. They were built in personnel would continue to assist with truce monitoring and
Australia, named TE KAHA and TE MANA, and entered into service peace-making initiatives in Bougainville throughout the decade. In
in 1997 and 1999 respectively. In 1997 the frigates’ capabilities were 1999, TE KAHA, CANTERBURY, and ENDEAVOUR were rushed to
further enhanced when the RNZN’s aging Wasp helicopters, which East Timor to provide naval support during the early stages of the
had served in the RNZN since 1966, were replaced by modern Kaman country’s bloody separation from Indonesia. RNZN personnel then
Seasprite helicopters. That same year the Navy’s hydrographic survey served ashore in coming years, as part of the multinational force
capability was also updated, when MONOWAI was replaced by that helped establish and then monitor peace in the country during
RESOLUTION. its early years of independence.
Women in the Navy In 1995 WELLINGTON took part in UN-endorsed multi-national
The 1990’s also saw the full integration of women into the RNZN. The operations to enforce sanctions against Iraq in the Arabian Gulf. This
WRNZNS was disbanded in 1977 in order to meet new legislation, but deployment was followed by CANTERBURY in 1996 and 1999, and
by 1979 women were trained alongside men and were being employed was the first of many RNZN deployments into the Middle East region
in shore-based roles. Women first served at sea in 1986 on board over the next twenty years. Since 2000 both Anzac-class frigates
MONOWAI, as part of an enduring programme to transition women have completed numerous maritime security and counter-piracy
into seagoing operations. By 1993 all branches of the Navy, except operations in the Straits of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and Horn of Africa
diving, were open to women, and in 1995 the first women served at sea areas of the region.
OUR NAVAL HISTORY 13Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
OUR FLEET
TE MANA & TE KAHA
Length: 118m
Beam: 15m
Displacement: 3,600 tonnes
Speed: 27+ knots
Armament:
FRIGATES Main Gun: 5-inch fully automatic
lightweight gun
TE MANA & TE KAHA Missiles: Eight cell Vertical Launch System
New Zealand
which houses the NATO Seasparrow
O ur two frigates, TE MANA and TE KAHA, are
two of 10 Anzac-class frigates constructed for
New Zealand and Australia. Ours came into service in
CWIS:
Mk 41 air defence missile
PHALANX Close In Weapons
System
1997 and 1999, a change of scene from New Zealand’s
traditional four-frigate force. They are our main Torpedos: Two Mk32 Mod 5 Surface Vessel
fighting ships, protecting New Zealand, our exports, Torpedo Tubes
maritime resources and those of our allies. They are Helicopter: One Kaman Super Seasprite SH-2G(I)
capable of prolonged independent missions, and
with a combination of torpedos,
have proved themselves multiple times in different
depth charges, Penguin air-to-air
oceans. There tasks include global security, anti-piracy,
counter-terrorism, interception and boarding, disaster
missiles and M60 machine gun
relief and search and rescue. In June last year TE KAHA Small arms: Numerous, ranging from .50-calibre
seized almost 260 kilograms of heroin worth NZ$235 machine guns and mini-Typhoon
million during a search of a dhow in the Indian Ocean. automatic weapons to 9mm pistols
14 OUR FLEETCANTERBURY
New Zealand
C ANTERBURY is our Navy’s Multi-Role Vessel (MRV).
Entering service in 2007, the 131m-long ship is based on a
Dutch roll-on roll-off passenger ferry, modified for naval use. CANTERBURY
She has been notable as a disaster relief ship, including close to Length: 131m
home in Christchurch. She happened to be berthed in Lyttelton
when the second Christchurch earthquake struck in February Beam: 23m
2011. She also assisted Vanuatu after Cyclone Pam in 2015. Displacement: 9,000 tonnes
CANTERBURY is also the sealift capability for the NZ Defence Speed: 20 knots
Force Joint Amphibious Task Force. She can deploy personnel,
Range: 6000 plus nautical miles
vehicles and equipment using landing craft, helicopters or
ramps. She has a self-contained hospital with surgical capability. Crew: 78 (core crew), 10 (flight), 4
(Government) 7 (Army ship’s staff), 24
Because of her ability to store two Navy Seasprites in the
(trainees), 243 (embarked force).
hanger, and four NH90s below, naval commentators have
compared CANTERBURY to a mini carrier. Armament: 25mm Bushmaster naval cannon.
Two .50 calibre machine guns.
Two helicopters spots on flight deck
ENDEAVOUR and hangar storage for up to four.
New Zealand
E NDEAVOUR is our Navy’s fleet replenishment tanker.
With over 5,000 tonnes of fuel on board, its primary
role is to refuel ships at sea, allowing our warships and
other vessels to stay at sea for long missions and exercises.
It can also refuel vessels of other Navies, and “hot” refuel
helicopters from her aviation fuel tank while the helicopter
hovers above the flight deck. Her deck, built with the smaller
Westland Wasp in mind, is now too small for the larger Naval
helicopters typically used.
ENDEAVOUR will be replaced in 2020 by the Maritime
Sustainment Capability Project, a 24,000 tonne naval tanker.
ENDEAVOUR
Length: 138 m
Beam: 18 m
Displacement: 7,300 tonnes
Speed: 14 knots
Range: 10,000 nautical miles
Crew: 50
Armament: Numerous small arms ranging from Steyr
rifles to 9 mm pistols
OUR FLEET 15Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
OFFSHORE PATROL
VESSELS (OPV)
OTAGO & WELLINGTON
New Zealand
O TAGO and WELLINGTON are the Navy’s patrol “workhorses”,
meant for operation from just south of the equator to the
Antarctic – although WELLINGTON has crossed the equator once.
They were delivered to the Navy as part of Project Protector in
2007 and 2008.
The two Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) have been prominent this
winter with Operation Calypso, patrolling the south-west Pacific
and boarding fishing boats to ensure compliance.
The RNZN does this in support of Pacific Islands that want
to protect their Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) but lack the
capability of ocean-going patrols lasting for weeks.
The presence of OPVs in the Pacific, as well as working to protect
OTAGO & WELLINGTON the livelihoods of New Zealand’s Pacific Island partners, provides
training for the islands’ own fisheries officers.
Length: 85m
The OPVs, which are ice-strengthened, might be called for a
Beam: 14m
long stint in the Southern Ocean, among icebergs, to ensure
Displacement: 1,900 tonnes compliance under the Commission for Conservation of Antarctic
Speed: 22 knots Marine Living Resources.
Range: 6,000 nautical miles Their versatility also allows the Navy to undertake scientific
duties and support Department of Conservation activities on New
Crew: 42 (core crew)
Zealand’s islands. This year OTAGO embarked a Seasprite SH-2G(I)
Armament: One 25mm Typhoon Naval gun and for the first time, aiding the work considerably.
two .50 calibre machine guns
the Seasprite from Whenuapai since the 1990s.
The operation and service of 6 Squadron is a hybrid of Navy and
Air Force. Navy crew the Seasprites, while the Air Force trains
the pilots and maintains the helicopters.
Seasprites are operated from TE KAHA, TE MANA,
CANTERBURY, OTAGO and WELLINGTON, and will be able to
operate from the ENDEAVOUR replacement and new Littoral
Operations vessel. This year was the first time Seasprites
were properly embarked for missions with the OPVs, the first
being Operation HAVRE, to support scientific work in the
Kermedec Islands.
Their roles include surveillance, reconnaissance, transport and
HELICOPTER RESOURCE vertical replenishment, but also combative. At RIMPAC 2016
The Navy operates 10 Kaman SH-2G(I) Seasprite helicopters, a Seasprite SH-2G(I) joined forces with frigate TE KAHA and
which have been delivered in intervals from early 2015. 6 a P-3K2 Orion to drop torpedoes on a simulated underwater
Squadron, their home base, have operated earlier versions of target. It can also fire Maverick and Penguin anti-ship missiles.
16 OUR FLEETINSHORE PATROL
VESSELS (IPV)
HAWEA, ROTOITI,
TAUPO & PUKAKI
New Zealand
T he Navy’s four Lake-class Inshore Patrol Vessels
(IPVs), HAWEA, ROTOITI, TAUPO and PUKAKI were
rolled out in 2007 and 2008, replacing seven sturdy
but small Inshore Patrol Craft. Designed and built by
Whangarei’s Tenix Shipbuilding New Zealand Ltd, the
IPVs conduct maritime surveillance in support of civil
agencies along our coasts. They have the added benefit
of providing command opportunities for young officers.
It was, sadly, the last major contract for Tenix NZ, which
closed at the end of 2008.
HAWEA, ROTOITI, TAUPO & PUKAKI
Length: 55m
Beam: 9m
Displacement: 340 tonnes
Speed: 25 knots
Range: 3,000 nautical miles
Crew: 24
Armament: Numerous small arms ranging from .50
calibre machine guns to 9 mm pistols
MANAWANUI DIVING SUPPORT VESSEL
N
New Zealand early 40 years old, HMNZS MANAWANUI is the
Royal New Zealand Navy’s busy diving support
MANAWANUI vessel, holding the Operational Diving Team, the Mine
Countermeasures team and the Maritime Survey team.
Length: 43m Built in 1979 as a North Sea oil tender, she is designed for
Beam: 9.5m good sea-keeping and has a range of 5,000 nautical miles,
allowing her to reach the South Pacific or South East Asia.
Displacement: 991 tonnes
MANAWANUI was in the news this year as she helped
Speed: 11 knots recover WWII unexploded munitions in the waters around
Range: 5,000 nautical miles the Solomon Islands. She is also prominent in disaster
relief and supporting police, fisheries, Customs and the
Crew: 24
Department of Conservation. In 2020 she will be replaced by
Armament: Numerous small arms ranging from .50 the Littoral Operations Sustainment Capability ship.
calibre machine guns to 9 mm pistols
OUR FLEET 17Programme
17
Thursday November
18
Friday November
19
Saturday November
0600 – 1500 1115 – 1220 1230 – 1430
Warships conduct formation entry into The “thousand sailor” street march on Ceremonial Fleet Review by Dame Patsy
Auckland. Queen St, Auckland, reviewed by the Reddy, the Governor-General of New
HMNZS TE KAHA to provide gun salute to mayor of Auckland. Zealand.
Chief of Defence Force. The parade will start from the Town Hall Review will commence aboard HMNZS
Waka Taua will exchange formal salute and proceed down Queen St, concluding OTAGO at approximately 1300.
with first group of ships. at Queen’s Wharf. Flypast of maritime and historic aircraft
1600 – 1700 at intervals throughout the review.
Haka powhiri for visiting nations at The
Cloud. 1830
All Ranks Reception at The Cloud.
18 PROGRAMME OF THE INRCelebrating our 75th Anniversary
20
Sunday November
21
Monday November
22
Tuesday November
1000 – 1600 0930 – 1300 Ships depart.
Ships Open Day for ships berthed at Squadron Sports Day at Ngataringa Bay
Auckland wharves. sports fields, Devonport.
1300 – 1400
1400 – 1500 Cultural and musical entertainment,
Divine Service at the Holy Trinity Ngataringa Bay.
Cathedral, Parnell.
PROGRAMME OF THE INR 19CNS YANCHENG
China
C NS YANCHENG is a Type 054A multi-role frigate with the
same stealthy hull as the Type 054, minimising the radar
cross section, but with improved sensors and weapons. It is
designed primarily for anti-air warfare but also equipped for
anti-surface and anti-submarine. Defence commentators have
remarked the Chinese production of Type 54/54A and future
variants could match the US Navy’s prolific production of Arleigh
Burke-class destroyers (62).
CREDIT: DVIDS / LT Edward Early The 054A is a versatile ship used for patrolling Chinese waters,
escort and patrol missions in the South China Sea, and anti-
USS SAMPSON piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden. One Type 054A was used
to evacuate Chinese and foreign nationals from Yemen in 2015 as
United States
the security situation deteriorated.
O n probability alone, the chances of an Arleigh Burke-
class destroyer being the first to visit New Zealand in
over 30 years were pretty good. Just over a quarter of US Navy
CNS YANCHENG
commissioned front-line ships are this class. The 62 ships built Length: 134m
so far add up to the most prolific warship class for the modern Beam: 16m
US Navy, with the longest production run post-World War II.
Displacement: 3,963 tonnes
USS SAMPSON is well down the list, commissioned in 2007
(ARLEIGH BURKE was commissioned some 16 years earlier). They Speed: 27 knots
are designed as multi-mission destroyers, built around the Aegis Range: 3,800 nautical miles
combat system, with anti-submarine, anti-surface, surface-to-
Crew: 165
air and strategic land strike capabilities, plus the ability to carry
anti-ballistic missiles and anti-satellite platforms. With weaponry Armament: 76mm main gun. Two Type 730 seven-
that includes about 90 missiles, they are larger and more heavily- barrel 30mm Close-In Weapon Systems
armed than earlier missile cruisers. (CWIS). One 32-cell vertical launch
surface-to-air missile system. Six
The USS SAMPSON had a moment in popular culture in the
324mm torpedo tubes.
movie Battleship, when it was destroyed by aliens during Exercise
RIMPAC 2012.
Below: A Harbin Z-9 aboard Chinese frigate YUNCHENG.
USS SAMPSON
Length: 155m
Beam: 20m
Displacement: 9,425 tonnes
Speed: 31 knots
Range: 4,300 nautical miles
Crew: 276
Armament: 5 inch main gun
96 Tomahawk or Asroc missiles
Mark 32 and 46 torpedo tubes
20mm Phalanx Close In Weapon
System (CIWS) CREDIT: Wikimedia / Rob Schleiffert
20 OUR GUESTSCelebrating our 75th Anniversary
Left: A MH60R “Romeo” Seahawk
with the Australian Navy.
PHOTOS CREDIT: Department of Defence (Australia)
HMAS DECHAINEUX
HMAS DARWIN Australia
Australia
H MAS DECHAINEUX is a Collins-class guided missile diesel-
electric submarine, one of six in her class serving with the
H MAS DARWIN is an Adelaide-class long-range escort frigate
that undertakes area air defence, anti-submarine warfare,
surveillance, reconnaissance and interdiction. The ship is capable
Royal Australian Navy. At the time of their commissioning (1996 to
2003), they were the largest conventionally-powered submarines
in the world (this has reportedly been topped by China).
of countering simultaneous threats from the air, surface and sub-
surface. Collins-class submarines have been tailored specifically for a two-
ocean surveillance role in the Royal Australian Navy. Designed
Commissioned in 1984, DARWIN and her five sister frigates
to be as quiet as advanced technology can achieve, Collins-
were the first Royal Australian Navy ships to be powered by
class submarines have been developed from five generations of
gas turbines for its main propulsion. This, combined with a
submarines designed and built by the Swedish Navy.
modern repair by replacement policy, has allowed both a reduced
complement and a high availability for sea. DARWIN can be One of the first submarines to be totally designed by computers,
underway from cold in 30 minutes. In addition, two forward these submarines boast a high performance hull form, highly
mounted retractable auxiliary propulsion units provide a automated controls, low indiscretion rates, high shock resistance
secondary means of propulsion plus excellent manoeuvrability in and an efficient weapons handling and discharge system.
confined waters. The submarine will move silently on electric power supplied by
DARWIN, together with her sister ship SYDNEY, have been banks of new-technology batteries. The batteries are charged by
deployed to the Persian Gulf a record five times in 1990, 1991, 1992, three on-board diesel generator sets.
2002 and 2004. Darwin was deployed to East Timor (Timor- Her sister vessels have previously visited New Zealand; HMAS
Leste) in 1999 and was also involved in operations in the Solomon RANKIN in 2008, and HMAS FARNCOMB in 2005. Australia has
Islands in 2001. operated submarines since WWI.
HMAS DARWIN HMAS DECHAINEUX
Length: 138m Length: 78m
Beam: 14m Beam: 8m
Displacement: 4,267 tonnes Surface 3,407 tonnes
Speed: 29 knots displacement:
Range: 4,500 nautical miles Range: 11,500 nautical miles
Crew: 184 Crew: 58
Armament: Standard medium range anti-aircraft Armament: McDonnell Douglas Sub Harpoon
missiles and Harpoon anti-ship missiles. anti-ship missiles; six 21-in (533 mm)
A 76 mm gun to counter both aircraft forward tubes for Mark 48 torpedoes
and surface threats is fitted forward containing 267kg warheads
of the funnel and one 20 mm Vulcan
Phalanx close-in weapon system for
anti-missile defence. Six Mark 32
torpedo tubes.
OUR GUESTS 21Celebrating our 75th Anniversary
CREDIT: Republic of Korea Armed Forces – 20130626 CREDIT: Wikimedia / Indian Navy
ROKS CHUNGBUK INS SUMITRA
South Korea India
T he ROKS CHUNGBUK could take the prize for the most
modern ship to feature in this International Naval Review,
being commissioned last year, according to Jane’s Fighting Ships.
I NS SUMITRA is the fourth in the Saryu class of Indian-built
Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), capable of ocean surveillance
and monitoring. SUMITRA was commissioned in 2014 and
She is one of six or seven expected Incheon-class multi-role assigned to India’s Eastern Naval Command, which tackles
coastal defence frigates, replacing South Korea’s eighties-era maritime challenges in the Bay of Bengal and the waters of the
corvettes and Ulsan-class frigates. adjoining Eastern Indian Ocean region. India’s OPVs undertake
counter-piracy and counter-terrorism operations. Her armament
duplicates a frigate, with a 76mm main gun and two 30mm Close
ROKS CHUNGBUK In Weapon Systems. She is also the presidential yacht of India.
Length: 114m
Beam: 14m
INS SUMITRA
Displacement: 3,251 tonnes
Speed: 30 knots Length: 105m
Range: 4,500 nautical miles Beam: 13m
Crew: 140 Displacement: 2,230 tonnes
Armament: Cheon Ryong land-attack missiles, Speed: 24 knots
Hae Sung surface-to-ship missiles, Range: 6,500 nautical miles
Raytheon Mk 49 RAM RIM-116 surface- Crew: 113
to-air missiles. 127mm main gun. Six
Armament: 76mm main gun plus 30mm Close In
324mm torpedo tubes.
Weapon System
Below: A Republic of Korean Navy P-3C Orion. Below: The Kawasaki P-1, a Japanese maritime patrol aircraft.
CREDIT: Wikimedia/Ricardo R Guzman CREDIT: Steve Lynes, UK
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