2 July 2024
HMAS Hobart rendezvoused with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessel JS Hamana to conduct the first replenishment at sea (RAS) during regional presence deployment (RPD) 24-2 in May.
This was the first time an Australian guided missile destroyer conducted a RAS with a Japanese Tomada-Class ship.
The two ships joined up in the East China Sea in near perfect conditions while preparing for what was an exciting and fruitful evolution.
As the two ships approached each other at close range, the crews exchanged waves and greetings, with signs on Hanama welcoming Hobart’s crew alongside.
Both ships made the most of the day and took advantage of the ability to conduct a cross-deck exchange.
Two members from each ship were afforded the opportunity to join the other ship’s crew, experiencing life on board and a different culture for a few hours.
To add to the excitement, Hobart used her embarked MH-60 helicopter 'Voodoo' to conduct the transfer of personnel.
Sub-Lieutenant Bradley Eastaway was fortunate enough to be one of two members from Hobart to partake in this exchange.
“This was potentially a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me,” Sub-Lieutenant Eastaway said.
“Seeing the similarities and differences in how the ship operates compared to Hobart was eye opening and an experience I will never forget.”
The two Hobart members made the most of the day, exchanging gifts and mementos between crew members to continue strengthening the relationship between the two nations.
As the RAS approached its final stages, the commanding officers of both ships also used the opportunity to exchange letters, caps, coins and some quintessential Australian delicacies including Vegemite and Tim Tams.
Hobart and her crew of more than 220 personnel were deployed on the RAN’s second regional presence deployment, conducting international engagement activities and executing a dynamic and robust program until June.
