NUSHIP Supply, the lead ship for the RAN's Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment (AOR) ships has sailed from Navantia’s Ferrol shipyard in Spain for Australia.
The occasion was marked by a small ceremony held in Ferrol attended by senior Navantia personnel, the RAN’s Defence Attaché in Madrid, CAPT Tim Byles and the Department of Defence’s inspection team from Teekay.
COVID-19 travel restrictions prevented a larger event from taking place. Flags from both nations were presented during the ceremony.
“This is a proud moment for the people of Navantia and Australia who have worked directly or indirectly in making Supply a reality over many years and continues our close relationship between our two countries," Navantia’s Global President Susana de Sarría said.
“The achievement of this milestone is a great credit to the people of Navantia S.A. and everyone involved with the Sea 1654-3 program, particulary with the challenges presented by COVID-19. We acknowledge the efforts and contributions made by all our subcontractors, including Navantia Australia personnel, Teekay, Raytheon, SAAB, the Royal Australian Navy and the Department of Defence located not only in Ferrol, but also in Canberra and Sydney.”
NUSHIP Supply will arrive in WA early October and will be based at HMAS Stirling where the installation and testing of the combat and communications systems, as well as some logistics areas will be completed by Australian industry.
Once in-service the AORs will operate in a joint manner with the wider maritime force and ADF to provide operational support for the deployed naval or combat forces operating far from the port on the high seas for longer periods.