Australian missile frigate visits Da Nang

HMAS Ballarat is an ANZAC-class guided missile frigate capable of air defence, anti-submarine and surface warfare, surveillance, interdiction and reconnaissance.

Lieutenant Colonel David Landon, captain of HMAS Ballarat, shakes hands with Vietnamese armed forces. Photo: Truong Trung

At noon on June 4, the Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Ballarat docked at Tien Sa port, beginning a 5-day official visit to Da Nang city.

During this visit, the crew will participate in cultural and sports exchanges and joint activities at sea with the Navy's forces.

Speaking at the welcoming ceremony, Colonel Nerolie McDonald - Australian Defense Attaché in Vietnam said this is the 23rd Australian naval ship to visit Vietnam since the two countries established defense relations.

“This is another great opportunity to build on the defence cooperation between our two countries, a relationship that began in 1999 and has grown in scope and diversity over the years.

Since 1999, our defense forces have trained more than 1,500 officers of the Vietnam People's Army and we are currently assisting your military in preparing to participate in United Nations peacekeeping operations.

“Therefore, the crew is looking forward to this visit, seeing it as a highlight of their cruise,” said Colonel Nerolie McDonald.

HMAS Ballarat docks at Tien Sa port to begin visit to Da Nang - Photo: TRUONG TRUNG

HMAS Ballarat is an ANZAC-class guided missile frigate capable of air defence, anti-submarine and surface warfare, surveillance, interdiction and reconnaissance.

HMAS Ballarat is also equipped with a multi-role helicopter landing pad and hangar and can reach a maximum speed of 27 knots.

According to TTO