HMAS Supply has conducted a replenishment at sea with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force frigate JS Kumano during Anti-Submarine Warfare Exercise (ASWEX).
The complex at-sea evolution demonstrated the interoperability of Supply-class auxiliary oiler replenishment ships working in company with Mogami-class frigates, reinforcing the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) ability to sustain integrated, partnered operations at sea.
Commanding Officer Supply Commander Kylie Turnbull said the replenishment demonstrated the ship’s core role in enabling sustained maritime effects domestically and across the region.
“Conducting this activity with JS Kumano was an exciting step forward for both navies, demonstrating the effectiveness of our operations together,” Commander Turnbull said.
“The collaboration between the two ships has also reinforced that the Mogami-class general-purpose frigate is an impressive platform and will be a major asset for the RAN.
“This replenishment evolution also solidified the Supply-class’s crucial role in enabling current and future maritime operations across our region in support of Australia’s security interests.”
Marine Technician Leading Seaman Jonathan Mathews said he was impressed with Kumano’s professionalism.
“It was very exciting to see how our systems relate to the Mogami-class system,” he said.
“I’m glad to be the first Australian ‘Tanky’ to fuel a Mogami-class frigate”.
Australia and Japan have signed contracts to deliver an initial three general-purpose frigates based on the enhanced Mogami-class design, with the first ship scheduled to be delivered to the Royal Australian Navy in 2029.