HMAS Warramunga fires missiles in RIMPAC 2010
15 Jul 2010
HMAS Warramunga has successfully fired a new Harpoon Block II missile in what is the first joint combined multinational missile firing for the RAN during Exercise Rim-of-the-Pacific (RIMPAC) 2010.
The initial harpoon missile firing was part of a coordinated evolution involving four ships from three countries – Her Majesty Canadian Ship (HMCS) Calgary, United States Ships (USS) Chosin and Benfold - together with Warramunga, each firing one missile towards the target ex-USS New Orleans.
Commander of the Australian National Command Element (CASNCE) Commodore (CDRE) Stuart Mayer commended the surface target engagement and said that their success reinforces the RAN’s fighting capability.
“Demonstrating an ability to employ complex weapon systems in a challenging environment, achieving the result that we did, proves that the Navy can be counted on to deliver the capacity to fight and win in the maritime environment,” CDRE Mayer said.
“It was a tremendous success that was even more significant because of the complexity involved in conducting the firing as part of a combined firing from four ships originating from three different countries.”
The missiles were fired within 30 seconds of each other into the 19000 tonne amphibious assault carrier.
Commander in charge of tactical development for the RAN Commander (CMDR) Peter Bartlett said that a total of seven harpoon missiles were fired including the second attack using an RAAF AP-3C Orion and a USAF AP-3C.
“The Harpoon missile firing was a most successful event and an excellent demonstration of the close relationship and tactical cohesion that the ADF enjoys with US and Canadian Forces,” CMDR Bartlett said.
“The crew of Warramunga performed in a most professional manner, their thorough preparation, diligent application and teamwork made a very complex task appear easy.”
The estimated $15 million serial involving the three nations has been in development and planning stages since 2007.
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