From sea to air, HMAS Canberra is enhancing its multi-domain capability through an innovative exchange program involving the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
Aviators and sailors from both services have participated in the exchange program over the past year, which aims to enhance interoperability, interchangeability and joint coordination across the Australian Defence Force.
A handful of Navy aviation sailors spent six months at RAAF Base Williamtown last year as part of the exchange, with two aviators - Corporal Luke Corkery and Leading Aircraftman Jacob McNee - embarking on Canberra in June as part of a strategic engagement and port visit to Wellington, New Zealand.
Lieutenant Commander Flying Adam Wells, who helped organise the exchange, said it had helped broaden career opportunities for sailors and aviators alike by offering unique experiences and broadening their education and understanding of multiple domains.
"They've had the chance to experience aviation operations from the RAN Landing Helicopter Dock perspective, which is quite unique in that this activity has not occurred before for their category," Lieutenant Commander Wells said.
"In amongst that, they've also had the opportunity to deploy with us to Wellington for our sister city visit and participate in numerous ship's activities, which included the Official Reception."
'They're not just aviators or technicians, but they're firefighters, first-responders and first aiders, too.'
Corporal Corkery, an F-35A Lightning II armament technician based in Williamtown, said the past few weeks at sea had increased his appreciation for his Navy counterparts.
"One of the biggest things I've learnt is that sailors are multi-role and multi-skilled people with a wide range of capabilities they need to master," Corporal Corkery said.
"They're not just aviators or technicians, but they're firefighters, first-responders and first aiders, too.
"It's pretty impressive and I'll take plenty away and back to my squadron."
Leading Aircraftman McNee said he'd made the most of his time on board.
"I was just trying to absorb as much as possible and learn as much from the team as I could in the few weeks we were here," Leading Aircraftman McNee, an F-35 Lightning II aircraft technician, said.
"It was a great exposure to how Naval aviation is carried out compared to RAAF aviation and I'm grateful for the experience and the opportunity to participate in flying activities aboard."
