By
Graham Davis
The
4,100-tonne guided missile frigate HMAS Sydney will sail from
her home port, Sydney, soon, to replace Anzac and Darwin in The
Gulf.
Anzac
and Darwin should be back at Fleet Base West in May.
The
deployment of Sydney and the return of the other warships, were
announced by Defence Minister, Senator Robert Hill, on April 1.
He
said the Government had assessed the size and nature of the ADF
contribution to the Coalition to disarm Iraq given the success
of maritime operations to date.
Senator
Hill said the Government had decided to vary the RAN’s contribution
in the Coalition given the significant achievements of the maritime
campaign in securing the sea approaches to Iraq including the
oil platforms in the Persian Gulf, the strategically vital Al
Faw Peninsula and the key port of Umm Qasr.
The
Government accepted the advice of the Chief of the Defence Force
on the matter, Senator Hill said.
Sydney
will join HMAS Kanimbla in the Persian Gulf where both vessels
will contribute to maritime security in one of the world’s
most vital waterways.
Senator
Hill said that while the focus of the maritime campaign had shifted
to carrier air operations, there was still a requirement for frigates
to conduct some escort and patrol duties.
Senator
Hill said during their deployment, Anzac and Darwin had undertaken
crucial tasks in support of the multinational interception force
enforcing UN sanctions in Iraq in Iraq and in securing the Al
Faw Peninsula.
“This
included provision of naval gunfire support to ground forces by
the RAN for the first time since the Vietnam War.”
“The crews will get a well-deserved rest and re-union with
their families before resuming routine duties.
“All Australians can be proud of their achievements which
have lived up to the highest traditions of the Navy and the ADF.
