There is always an air of expectation when a Royal Australian Navy ship heads off on a deployment; even more so after a long period of maintenance.
So the crew were understandably excited when HMAS Success departed Fleet Base East on 17 February and rendezvoused with HMAS Choules off Sydney that evening. The feeling built as Success took on board an MRH-90 helicopter at dusk, and continued as the two ships spent the night in company in preparation for Success’ first Replenishment at Sea (RAS) of 2014 and Choules’ first with an RAN ship.
Anticipation reached a peak as the two ships closed to within 140 feet of one another for the replenishment. A second RAS was later performed on the opposite side of each ship, after which Choules accompanied Success for a while as she headed away from home port. Commander Ashley Papp, RAN, the Commanding Officer of Choules , shared his excitement at seeing ‘ these two great ships operating together,’ adding that his team ‘g ained priceless in-company training and exposure opportunities.’
Commanding Officer Success, Captain Allison Norris RAN and her crew were no less satisfied with the opportunity to demonstrate that the RAN’s battle tanker is back to full mission capability.
That capability includes the ability to RAS from both port and starboard sides, utilising four separate stations. Up to two ships can be accommodated, replenishing each with fuel, potable water and solids. Success’ capability is significantly enhanced by the embarked MRH-90 helicopter, which can provide medivac assistance, passenger transfer, vertical replenishment, transfer of stores and search and rescue – it can carry 22 personnel (four crew, 18 passengers) and travel at speeds of up to 165 knots. In future, the flight will add the capabilities of fast roping, a Mag 58 machine gun, and chaff and flare for defence against surface to air missiles.
In addition, the 808 Squadron’s flight crew are a welcome and enthusiastic addition to Success’ compliment.
HMAS Success has now commenced a busy operational period, which will extend well into 2015.
[mappress] Press Release, February 27, 2014