Operation CATALYST: Image Gallery
18 November 2005
HMAS Ballarat and HMAS Newcastle in the Persian Gulf
The Anzac Class frigate HMAS Ballarat, under the command of Commander Jonathan Mead, RAN, succeeded the FFG, HMAS Newcastle, in October 2005 on deployment to the Persian Gulf.
The mission of the Australian frigate is to assist in the detection, deterrence and interception of vessels in Iraqi waters suspected of undertaking illegal activity. HMAS Ballarat assists in protecting Iraq's offshore assets such as oil platforms, ensuring Iraq's key economic resources are able to generate funds to support reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. Approximately 190 personnel are aboard HMAS Ballarat.
| 2005_S1662_01 HMAS Ballarat (foreground) in the Persian Gulf with HMAS Newcastle (rear). (Date taken: 30 October 2005) Low-res | High-res |
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