Friday, September 3, 2010

Exercise Kakadu 2010 Draws to a Close

Forecastle party fall in as HMAS Warramunga departs Fort Hill Wharf, Darwin, for Exercise Kakadu 2010.

03 September 2010 -- Twelve visiting Navy vessels from four different countries are farewelling Darwin as Exercise Kakadu draws to a close for 2010 following 19 days of intense training.

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) hosted naval forces from Singapore, Thailand and Japan. Royal Malaysian Naval officers participated as part of Exercise Control staff. Exercise Kakadu was also observed by representatives from India, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, France and Republic of Korea.

Participating naval forces were supported by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), the Royal New Zealand Air Force and a Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force air detachment.

During Exercise Kakadu the RAN was represented by the Replenishment Vessels HMA Ships Sirius and Success; three ANZAC-class frigates HMA Ships Warramunga, Arunta and Toowoomba; two submarines, HMA Ships Dechaineux and Collins; and an Armidale-class Patrol Boat HMAS Albany. Australia was also represented by RAAF assets, including AP-3C, F111 and Hawk Fighter Aircraft.

Exercise Director of Kakadu 2010, Captain John Vandyke, was delighted with this year's outcomes.

"Exercise Kakadu has provided an invaluable training opportunity for the Royal Australian Navy and visiting Navies to work together and build our effectiveness when we operate together in the areas of maritime operations and security," he said.

Exercise Kakadu provided graduated training activities and weapons practices, which culminated in simulated warfare at sea that tested the effectiveness of participating forces.

"The participation of two submarines made it a great opportunity for the ships to further enhance their skills at anti-submarine operations, while also providing excellent training for Australian submariners," said Captain Vandyke.

During Kakadu the ships and submarines were tested on their ability to react and deal with many different maritime scenarios, while increasing their ability to operate effectively with other Navies.

"It has been a very busy and intense period for the ship's companies and air crews involved in Kakadu as they have been challenged by the exercise scenarios. Everyone involved has performed very well and has gained valuable training and experiences," said Captain Vandyke.

"As always, the people of Darwin and Northern Territory have been exceptional hosts to us, and I thank them for their support during Exercise Kakadu," he said.

Australia DoD

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