No Tim Tams for HMS Tamar as UK and Australian forces showcase co-operation in the Pacific
The Royal Navy's HMS Tamar and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) have joined forces for a long-range training exercise in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.
While the exercise was a test of the two Commonwealth forces' ability to work together far from their home bases, it was also marked by a light-hearted moment when rough seas thwarted a planned airdrop of Australian treats.
"I love a Tim Tam, it was a shame we couldn't get them this time! We look forward to working with them again soon," said Lieutenant Joe Hobday, Tamar's Navigating Officer.
The exercise, which took place approximately 200 nautical miles south of Fiji, was designed to test the co-ordination between the Royal Navy and the RAAF in remote areas, with an eye toward potential joint search-and-rescue or disaster relief operations.
The RAAF's C-27J Spartan, an Italian-built military transporter, located HMS Tamar in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.
However, due to choppy waters, the Spartan was unable to complete the planned drop of symbolic supplies, which included iconic Australian snacks like Tim Tams, Vegemite, and Milo.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on Aussie snacks, the exercise was hailed a success, proving that the two forces could effectively co-ordinate their efforts far from home.
"We are a long way from home and knowing that we can call on partners like Australia is amazing," said Lt Hobday.
"It is key that we continue to work with our friends and allies in the region. The aircraft looked awesome as it made its pass and the wing waggle was a nice touch!"
HMS Tamar, a River-class patrol ship based in Portsmouth, has been operating in the Pacific for more than two years, frequently collaborating with the Royal Australian Navy.
However, interactions with the RAAF are less common, making this exercise a valuable opportunity to strengthen ties.
For the Australian aviators, the exercise was also a chance to appreciate the striking appearance of HMS Tamar.
Flying Officer Alan Landman, who piloted the Spartan, was particularly impressed by the ship's distinctive camouflage.
"It's always fun to make a low pass on a warship, and Tamar's definitely got the best paint job I've seen so far," he said.
The River-class patrol ship sports a striking dazzle paint camouflage scheme and has an imposing Welsh dragon adorning her hull.
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