Sailors swap ships and skills

RAN sailors have exchanged ships with their US Navy counterparts during Exercise Keen Sword, gaining first-hand experience of each other’s operations while strengthening their ability to work together at sea.

Sailors from HMAS Stuart and the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt took part in the cross-deck exchange in the Pacific Ocean on October 22.

The activity brought together 14 sailors to observe daily operations, share professional knowledge and build relationships between the RAN and the US Navy.

For the Australian sailors who embarked in USS Theodore Roosevelt it was a rare opportunity to experience life and operations on board a US Navy aircraft carrier.

RAN personnel worked alongside their US counterparts preparing meals in the ship’s galley, assisting with electronic maintenance, engaging in physical training and more.

Meanwhile, US Navy sailors embarked in HMAS Stuart conducted fuel quality checks, stood bridge watches and trained in firefighting procedures alongside the ship’s company.

AB Asher Besser said the exchange was a unique opportunity to experience life on board a US Navy aircraft carrier and learn directly from his American counterparts.

“Getting the chance to step onto a completely different ship and see how the US Navy operates was an incredible experience,” AB Besser said.

“Working alongside their sailors gave us the opportunity to share knowledge, compare how we approach our jobs and learn from each other.

“Experiences like this help build the relationships that make it easier for us to work together at sea.”

The exchange also gave sailors from both navies the chance to experience different ways of working while recognising the knowledge, skills and values they share.

US Navy Senior Chief Aviation BM (Fuel) Ryan Bucchi, who embarked in HMAS Stuart, said the professionalism and hospitality of the Australian crew stood out during his time on the ship.

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I am truly honoured and privileged to have had the opportunity to represent the US Navy and Theodore Roosevelt,” he said.

“My initial impression was how friendly and welcoming the Australian crew were.”

Beyond technical training, the exchange allowed sailors to share personal experiences, perspectives and values, building relationships that support cooperation when operating together at sea.

Almost 300 ADF personnel have deployed to Japan to enhance readiness and interoperability as part of Keen Sword.

This year’s exercise involves around 45,000 Japanese personnel and 11,000 US personnel, 40 vessels and 260 aircraft, with Australia invited to participate alongside Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand, the Netherlands and the Philippines.

See more photos here.