HMAS Ballarat continues her robust program of international engagements, conducting replenishments at sea (RAS) and helicopter cross-deck landings with HMNZS Aotearoa in the South China Sea.

Ballarat and Aotearoa conducted three RAS evolutions with concurrent helicopter cross-deck landings over seven hours, running late into the night on October 28.

Executive Officer Ballarat Lieutenant Commander Kane Stuart praised the crew for their conduct and professionalism throughout the important evolution.

“The team did a fantastic job supporting each other throughout the day to ensure we carried out each evolution safely, and to support Aotearoa in achieving her training outcomes,” Lieutenant Commander Stuart said.

“Cooperative activities like this also form an important aspect of Australia’s presence in the Indo-Pacific, working with our partners and allies to support security and stability in the region.”

This engagement forms part of Ballarat’s regional presence deployment, and a mission readiness workup for Aotearoa, which is deployed to the region under Operation Crucible.

Replenishments at sea are whole ship evolutions, and a team of combat systems operators who typically spend 12 hours a day on consoles in the operations room were excited to be involved.

“It’s great to get outdoors and experience evolutions like this in person,” Able Seaman Mike Obersnell said.

“This is my first overseas deployment so it’s really cool to experience working with other navies at sea.

“This also gives me a greater appreciation for the bigger picture and understanding why we’re here working with our partners and allies across the Indo-Pacific region.”

This engagement continues Ballarat’s strong sequence of international activities with nations and navies across the Indo-Pacific, which began on September 1.