The New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Aotearoa achieved a significant milestone by completing a successful refueling operation for its largest ship since being commissioned four years ago.
During its operational deployment, the USS Boxer, a US Navy Amphibious Assault Ship, received a transfer of a total of 3,350,000 liters of fuel from HMNZS Aotearoa.
During the replenishment operation, the ship and aircraft received fuel to the south of the Hawaiian island of Oahu.
The replenishment at sea, conducted aboard HMNZS Aotearoa under the command of Commander Rob Welford, lasted 8.5 hours. This marked the longest replenishment operation undertaken by the ship.
No simple task
Welford mentioned that this particular task was quite challenging. Still, the crew approached it with utmost care, attention, and dedication, ensuring it was executed effectively over an extended period.
“This is what our crew trains for, and is a testament to the interoperability the Royal New Zealand Navy conducts with partners as we continue to work together,” Rob Welford added .
HMNZS Aotearoa, the Royal New Zealand Navy’s largest and newest ship, is currently deployed on Operation Crucible.
This deployment involves participating in international military exercises, operations, and engagements to enhance military cooperation and readiness.
The ship’s versatile capabilities allow it to contribute to various maritime activities, showcasing New Zealand’s commitment to global security and stability.
HMNZS Aotearoa is an impressive feat of naval engineering, proudly claiming the title of the largest vessel ever constructed for the Royal New Zealand Navy.
With a remarkable displacement of 26,000 tonnes, this magnificent vessel embodies the cutting-edge capabilities and advancements of maritime technology.
Duties of the vessel
HMNZS Aotearoa is a Polar-class sustainment vessel built by Hyundai Heavy Industries.
Aotearoa is a purpose-built, technologically enhanced asset that adds value to combat operations, humanitarian relief functions, and operational and training support.
HMNZS Aotearoa’s primary mission is to provide global sustainment to New Zealand and coalition maritime, land, and air units and United Nations security operations by resupplying ship and aviation fuel, dry goods, water, spare parts, and ammunition.
In 2020, the Royal New Zealand Navy formally commissioned Aotearoa. The 26,000-tonne tanker and replenishment ship is the largest Navy has ever operated.
The ship can carry up to 22 twenty-foot shipping containers and has freshwater production plants that can produce 100,000 liters per day.
It also has self-defense systems, fuel tanks for aviation and marine use, and all-electric replenishment rigs. It can also carry an SH-2G(I) Seasprite Helicopter or NH90 helicopter.
In addition, it has communication and bridge systems, a platform management system, and features for cold weather, such as heating on the upper deck, a hull that can withstand ice, and fittings for underwater use.
Aotearoa utilizes a world-first naval “Environship” leadge bow design. This design incorporates a new wave-piercing bow, which reduces resistance and lowers fuel burn.
At the same time, its combined diesel-electric and diesel propulsion plant produces lower fuel emissions than older vessels.
Its Selective Catalytic Reducers reduce harmful NOx exhaust emissions. It has been built to adhere to Polar Code safety regulations.
It is ice-strengthened to Polar Class level 6 for Southern Ocean monitoring and Antarctic operations, including the resupply of McMurdo Station and Scott Base.
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