HMAS Sydney Departs For North America

HMAS Sydney Departs For North America

Royal Australian Navy (RAN) frigate HMAS Sydney deployed from Fleet Base East (FBE) Garden Island this morning, for her first visit to mainland North America since her launch on 26 September 1980.

The purpose of the deployment is to complete testing of functionality of the Adelaide Class Frigate Upgrade (FFGUP). While off the coast of Hawaii, Sydney will participate in Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) firings at the Barking Sands Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF).

The firing will demonstrate the integration of the Baseline Build 2 Combat System software and the MK41 Vertical Launch system recently installed as part of FFGUP.

The ship now is equipped with two missile systems to combat anti-ship missiles and aircraft.

While deployed, Sydney will also conduct underwater trials using facilities at Nanoose Bay, Vancouver. The trial will tender evidence of the capabilities of the Torpedo Decoy System, installed during the FFGUP.

The ship's company will also get the opportunity to promote the RAN's relationship with the United States and Canada through port visits to Pearl Harbour, Vancouver, Seattle, San Francisco and San Diego. The deployment reflects the ongoing importance of the relationship between the three nations.

ENDS

© Scoop Media