The Royal Australian Navy’s Anzac-class frigate, HMAS Ballarat, has fired its 5in gun for Naval Surface Fire Support as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre.
The exercise, which started on 14 July and will run until 31 July, is designed to enhance interoperability between the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the US Armed Forces.
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More than 17,000 troops are taking part in the multi-domain exercise.
During the live-fire exercise, Ballarat fired several high-explosive rounds about 7nm off the coast of Townshend Island.
Ballarat performed the firing with the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, USS Rafael Peralta.
In a press statement, the Australian Department of Defence noted that Ballarat’s sister ship, HMAS Parramatta, and Japanese destroyer JS Makinami, also joined the naval gunfire on the Townshend Island within Shoalwater Bay.
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By GlobalDataThe opening gun firing on Townshend Island was followed by air attack by attack helicopter AH-1Z Viper, UH-1Y Venom, and Tiger helicopters, as well as F/A-18A/B Hornets.
The opening barrage was also followed by firing conducted from nine US and Australian M777 155mm Howitzers.
HMAS Ballarat commanding officer commander Antony Pisani said: “This activity shows Australian frigates and American and Japanese destroyers can draw from the same tactical playbook to take action against multiple targets seamlessly.
“We’re well-versed in refining our navy-to-navy skills in the region so, when directed, we can quickly integrate our assets and generate a combined effect, adding to the air and land actions over the horizon.”
