The Australian guided missile frigate HMAS Sydney has successfully completed a replenishment at sea (RAS) with the Spanish tanker ESPS Cantabria off the coast of Cairns, while on passage to Japan, where the Australian warship will embed with the United States Navy’s 7th Fleet.
HMAS Sydney ’s Commanding Officer, Commander Karl Brinckmann, said the RAS was an excellent opportunity to build on his crew’s experience working with other navies.
“Conducting replenishment at night is always challenging, but the professionalism shown by Commander Jose Fernandez and his crew ensured the activity was completed safely and efficiently,” said CMDR Brinckmann.
It was the first night RAS conducted by Cantabria since arriving in Australia in February. ESPS Cantabria is in the middle of a 10 month deployment to Australia, which will culminate with participation in the International Fleet Review in October.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, April 29, 2013; Image: Royal Australian Navy