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The frigate has engaged in multi-national military exercises for the first time following an upgrade.
HMAS Warramunga has been put to the test during Exercise Malabar 2021 — an annual naval exercise designed to enhance maritime interoperability in support of regional peace and security.
This marked the vessel’s first major deployment since receiving a mid-life capability assurance program upgrade at the Henderson dockyard in Western Australia.
Ahead of the exercise, which involved the US, Japan, and India, HMAS Warramunga conducted a range of evolutions designed to prepare the crew for interoperability training.
Preparations included refuelling with HMAS Sirius and maritime warfare training aimed at better integrating the operations room and the embarked helicopter.
“Exercises such as Malabar 21 allow our crew to exchange proficiency in core mariner skills with like-minded navies and enhance our interoperability,” combat systems manager Chief Petty Officer Mark Skinner said.
HMAS Warramunga’s embarked aircrew were also put to the test, with Flight Commander 816 Squadron Flight 1 Lieutenant Commander Matt Hudson stressing the importance of the engagement.
“Being embarked in HMAS Warramunga with the MH-60 Romeo helicopter and taking part in a large international exercise like Malabar was a great opportunity for 816 Squadron Flight 1,” LCDR Hudson said.
“We were able to enhance our interoperability with our partners from India, Japan and the United States in this high-level maritime training exercise.”
Exercise Malabar 21 was held off the coast of Guam, and involved a range of maritime operations, including live firings and anti-submarine warfare training.
This year’s iteration marked the second consecutive year of Australian involvement.
[Related: RAN to join allies off the coast of Guam]
