Friends fly better together

While on operations in the South China Sea, HMAS Perth welcomed a VIP visit from the US Navy.

Perth received Deputy Commodore of Destroyer Squadron 21 (DESRON-21) CAPT David Hollon and CO Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron Seven One (HSM-71) CMDR Jessica Phenning. 

The two leaders flew from the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (CSG) in their embarked MH-60R Seahawk, Scout, to meet Perth’s crew. 

DESRON-21 and HSM-71 are assigned to the Abraham Lincoln CSG in the South China Sea. 

While the VIPs were on board Perth, teamwork was taking place overhead as aircrew from Perth’s embarked MH-60R Seahawk, Banshee, joined the US Navy crew in Scout for orientation flights. 

HSM-71 is the US Navy's first MH-60R Seahawk fleet squadron. 

RAN Pilot LEUT Aaron Glenville said it was unique to fly with them. 

“On the surface level, you could say it was a straightforward exchange, because we have the same procedures, the same aircraft and same structure,” LEUT Glenville said.

“But what makes it interesting is that lack of difference, because this means we could mix flight crews together in any tactical and support configuration with minimal delays, and everything would be the same.

“It speaks to the level of training we get in Australia that we can integrate seamlessly with partners like the US to conduct anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, electronic warfare and search-and-rescue missions.” 

While on board with the Australians, CAPT Hollon imparted some of his two decades of Navy knowledge during a candid question and answer session in the operations room. 

CAPT Hollon spoke about the realities of remaining flexible and mentally resilient in ever-changing circumstances, as well as the power of delegation. 

“It’s intrinsically human nature to want to demonstrate value, especially when things go wrong, but sometimes you have to look at the macro; at what you can and can’t control,” he said. 

During operations with the CSG, Perth conducted a replenishment at sea with Abraham Lincoln, a first for the Australian warship. 

CO Perth CMDR Dylan White thanked CAPT Hollon for his visit and the US for the opportunity to integrate with the CSG. 

“It’s important to remember alliances aren’t just pieces of paper, we’re friends, and it matters that we are operating together in the South China Sea with USS Abraham Lincoln,” CMDR White said.

“I wish the crew fair winds and following seas.”