RAN joins Exercise ARC21 off Japan

The Royal Australian Navy has joined land, maritime and air elements from Japan, France and the United States for Exercise ARC21 off the south coast of Japan. Anzac-class frigate HMAS Parramatta is participating in Japanese-led training activity, which includes blue-water combat, amphibious and aviation training elements, from 11 to 17 May 2021. Commander of the Joint Task Force, Rear Admiral Mark Hammond, said Exercise ARC21 provided Australia with an opportunity to test interoperability with partner nations in the region. “Australia has long-standing relationships with Japan, France and the United States, and this activity reaffirms our shared commitment to a safe and stable Indo-Pacific region,” Hammond said. Parramatta’s Commanding Officer, Commander Anita Nemarich, said Exercise ARC21 would further develop the capabilities of her ship and crew. “By exercising with our partner navies we build trust and mutual respect which enhances our ability to work together,” Nemarich said. “I thank our friends in the Japan Self-Defense Forces for hosting Exercise ARC21 and for their leadership in promoting practical opportunities to train together.” Parramatta is based in Sydney and is one of four Royal Australian Navy vessels to deploy to the region so far this year. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]