Personnel sharpened their skills during ASWEX 26, Navy's annual anti-submarine warfare exercise designed to expand surface and sub-surface capabilities.
Crew on board ships learned how to locate, track and engage enemy submarines, while beneath the waves, submariners practised hunting their enemy and remaining undetected.
On board HMAS Ballarat, Seaman Eden Holmes brought his Navy training together as a sonar operator during the exercise.
The 18-year-old from Port Stephens, NSW, joined Navy just over a year ago.
"I grew up listening to my grandpa's stories of his time in the Navy, and they inspired me to pursue a life at sea," Seaman Holmes said.
After completing 26 weeks of category training as a combat systems operator (underwater), he joined Ballarat to put theory into practice. Combat systems operators use the ship's sensors, like sonar, to build a tactical picture for their command.
A potent submarine force and complementary anti-submarine capability is vital to safeguarding Australia's security and prosperity.
'Learning under realistic conditions has been an incredible experience and it's been very satisfying to see all of my training come together.'
Preparing Navy's people for future capabilities is essential, particularly in light of the Australian Government's commitment to acquire a new class of frigate and conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.
"It's a great job because we're right in the heart of the action, and we have the best picture of the ship's situation," Seaman Holmes said.
"While I'm working in Ballarat, I also have friends from training on board HMAS Brisbane and HMAS Stuart participating in the same exercise."
ASWEX 26 also formed part of the Royal Australian Navy Submarine Command Course and Submarine Attack Coordinator Course, providing assessed serials for candidates preparing for submarine command roles.
The exercise was the final, intensive sea phase that challenged candidates in complex undersea and special warfare scenarios.
Launched in 2022, the training program was designed to develop the next generation of submarine commanders. In the past, candidates had to train overseas in programs that were not designed for Australia's requirements.
Back in Ballarat, Seaman Holmes said the exercise built the capabilities of himself and his mates.
"Learning under realistic conditions has been an incredible experience and it's been very satisfying to see all of my training come together," he said.
