RAN landing helicopter docks achieve FOC
The Royal Australian Navy’s fleet of landing helicopter docks have achieved final operational capability, the Australian Department of Defence announced on 12 November.
The two Canberra-class vessels, Canberra and Adelaide, are homeported at Garden Island, Sydney. At 230m long and with a speed of more than 20kt, the 27,500t ships have the ability to support six helicopters and four small landing craft that are able to carry the Australian Army’s M1A1 main battle tank.
The vessels are designed to provide support for amphibious operations such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and amphibious warfare.
Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said: ‘The Australian Defence Force’s amphibious capability is an integral part of Australia’s strategic posture and this milestone is another step in navy’s roadmap to delivering amphibious excellence.’
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