Shared skies and swapped decks

Forces from the RAN and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) conducted a bilateral maritime exercise to enhance combined warfighting skills.

Exercise Nichi-Gou Trident was executed in the waters off Guam in the western Pacific Ocean from September 12 to 14 after the participation of both nations in Exercise Pacific Vanguard.

HMAS Sydney and an embarked MH-60R Seahawk joined JS Fuyuzuki and an embarked SH-60J to execute the training activities. 

The exercise focused on command and control activities, aviation operations, maritime warfare serials and ship handling.

Fuyuzuki’s helicopter landed on Sydney’s flight deck and transferred personnel to conduct professional exchanges on board the ship while Sydney’s reciprocated by embarking in Fuyuzuki.

CO Sydney CMDR Hayden Jenkins said the exercise provided focused training opportunities for RAN and JMSDF personnel to demonstrate combined warfighting readiness.

“While alongside Guam, Sydney was fortunate to participate in a range of exercise planning activities,” CMDR Jenkins said.

“The opportunity to work with the JMSDF alongside and then operate at sea with JS Fuyuzuki has enhanced interoperability by increasing understanding of shared procedures and building professional relationships.

“The range of activities conducted during the exercise demonstrates the maritime cooperation, trust and mutual understanding that contribute to regional security and stability.”