THE continued development of the MH-60R Seahawk Romeo helicopter has taken another step forward with the first operational deployment of one of the aircraft.
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The Romeo, based at HMAS Albatross, has deployed to the Middle East onboard HMAS Perth as part of Operation Manitou.
In an operation of firsts, it is Perth’s first deployment to the region and the first time an Anzac-class frigate with the anti-ship missile defence upgrade has deployed operationally.
It will also be the first operational deployment of the new Romeo.
The Romeos have been brought into service through the 725 training squadron at the Nowra naval air station and the operational squadron 816.
The Romeos are one of the most capable anti-submarine / anti-surface warfare multi-mission helicopters in the world.
Perth left its home port of Fleet Base West, Rockingham last Tuesday, with the crew to undertake a six-month deployment to the region.
During its time in the region, Perth may undertake missions involving counter-terrorism, counter-piracy and theatre security cooperation/regional engagements, as part of the Australian Defence Force Contribution to support international efforts to promote maritime security, stability and prosperity in the Middle East region.
Perth will relieve HMAS Darwin, which features a Seahawk helicopter from 816 Squadron at Albatross, which recently seized of nearly a tonne of heroin off the coast of Africa and in March uncovered a huge weapons cache including almost 2000 assault rifles, rocket propelled grenade launchers, machine guns and mortar tubes.
