HMAS Newcastle on Nimitz guard duty

HMAS Newcastle has completed an attachment with the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet in the Arabian Gulf while deployed on maritime security operations in the Middle East.

CAPTION: HMAS Newcastle (left) breaks formation with US aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, USS Princeton and France’s FS Jean Bart. US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Emily Johnston.

During the two-week attachment supporting the USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (CSG-11), Newcastle conducted escort operations and a range of naval manoeuvres with US Navy ships.

Commander CSG-11, US Navy Rear Admiral Bill Byrne said the officers and crew of HMAS Newcastle were true professionals and displayed a phenomenal level of competency and flexibility during their attachment.

“It was seamless working with them, and their mastery of dynamic operations and ship manoeuvres gives me great confidence,” Rear Admiral Byrne said.

“I am proud and honoured to serve alongside the sailors of Newcastle and look forward to the next opportunity.”

HMAS Newcastle provided escort to several US ships and conducted naval operations including patrols and replenishment at sea with US ships during the attachment.

The Aussie ship also conducted integrated flying serials with her embarked MH-60R helicopter and Scaneagle unmanned aerial system for the first time on Australian operations.

HMAS Newcastle is deployed on Operation Manitou, Australia’s contribution to support international efforts to promote maritime security, stability and prosperity in the MER.

Newcastle’s deployment is the 65th rotation of a RAN ship in the Middle East since 1990.

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