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| HMAS Darwin (Wiki Info - Image: Wiki Commons) |
After months of intensive preparation, HMAS Darwin departed her homeport of Garden Island, Sydney for a seven-month deployment as part of Operation Slipper.
The Hon Darren Chester MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence and Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Tim Barrett, AM CSC RAN joined friends and family on the wharf for the farewell ceremony.
Commanding Officer Darwin, Commander Terence Morrison, RAN says his ship’s company of 220 have trained hard for their Middle East mission.
“Leading into Christmas, Darwin’s ship’s company were tested for every conceivable threat as part of our preparations for this deployment. I’m pleased to say my crew performed well, and are well prepared for the task ahead,” said Commander Morrison.
“On operation, Darwin will work alongside multinational forces as part of the Combined Maritime Forces, where we will have an important job conducting counter-terrorism, counter-piracy and maritime security operations.”
Rear Admiral Barrett thanked the ship’s company for the contribution they are about to make to protecting global prosperity.
“While you will be a long way from home, you can be confident that you are contributing to the economic prosperity and security of Australia. This will not be forgotten by your loved ones waiting at home,” said Rear Admiral Barrett.
“As an island nation we rely on sea trade for our wealth and security. The maritime security operations you will conduct will see you deter illegal traffic and piracy – this directly contributes to the stability of the Middle East Area of Operations and beyond.”
Operation Slipper is the Australian Defence Force contribution to the international campaign against terrorism, counter smuggling and counter piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and enhancing regional maritime security.