Ships and aircraft from the Royal Australian Navy and Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force have completed the bilateral Exercise NICHI GOU TRIDENT off the coast of New South Wales.
Australian Exercise Director, Captain Brian Schlegel said the successful interactions were especially important for the navies at a working level.
“We conduct Exercise NICHI GOU TRIDENT with Japan on an opportunity basis to improve our skills and ability to operate together.
“We also develop relationships with our counterparts that provide a better understanding of how each navy works at sea.
“Both Australia and Japan were able to benefit from the opportunity to practice high level warfare with open exchanges of ideas and operating procedures to further enhance our skills and interoperability,” he said.
HMA Ships Ballarat, Adelaide and Success along with Japanese destroyers JS Umigiri, JS Asayuki and submarine, JS Hakuryu, conducted a range of activities including anti-submarine warfare, ship handling and aviation operations as well as activities with Royal Australian Air Force AP-3C Orion and Hawk 127 aircraft.
Australia and Japan conduct regular exercises, including NICHI GOU TRIDENT and the biennial Exercise KAKADU.
The Royal Australian Navy farewelled the Japanese ships on Tuesday after a long weekend in harbour with crews participating in cultural activities before departing for home.
Image: Australian Navy