Exercise KOMODO: Australian Crew Strengthens Regional Partnerships

Ardent One, embarked in HMAS Launceston, participated in the Multilateral Naval Exercise KOMODO from 29 March to 3 April 2014.

The exercise was developed and coordinated by the Indonesian Navy in the vicinity of the Indonesian Islands of Batam, Riau, Anambas and Natuna. It focussed on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) practices and was aimed at increasing the interoperability and preparedness of participating nations.

Australia was one of 18 countries that participated in Exercise KOMODO, including China, Russia and the United States. More than 9,000 Personnel, 26 Warships, 4 fixed-wing aircraft and 10 helicopters took part in the serial.

The exercise was split into three phases; the harbour phase, the sea phase and the Medical Civic Action Program and Engineering Civic Action Program phase.

The harbour phase included the opening and closing ceremony, sporting events, cooking challenges and carnivals. The crew of Ardent One participated in all official events, winning gold in the Basketball tournament and coming fourth in the ‘Battle Chef’ competition. The Ship’s Company also rode through the streets of Batam alongside 2,000 others in the ‘Fun Bike’ event.

The Sea phase commenced on Monday 31 March 2014 with an official sail past by the Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, Admiral Dr. Marsetio. The departure from Batam went smoothly, as ships divided into three sub-divisions to transit through the Singapore Strait.

During the sea phase, Ardent one was busy being involved in Officer of the Watch manoeuvres, Flashing Light Exercises, a Search and Rescue serial, Man Overboard response training, a Medical Evacuation serial, a tow exercise and finally a formation anchorage into the picturesque Natuna Island group.

On arrival in Natuna, the crew of Ardent One joined in with more than 350 personnel from other nations to construct a road for the local community, as part of the Engineering Civic Action Program.

“My crew and I were very proud and pleased to represent Australia at such an important milestone activity for Indonesia and the region,” said LCDR Tony Ryder, Commanding Officer of Ardent One.

The exercise proved to be challenging but rewarding for the crew of Arden One, who embraced the opportunity to participate and support Australia’s strategic and National interests.

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Press Release, April 7, 2014; Image: Australian Navy