Australia: Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Materiel and Science, welcomed Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS 'Stuart' back to her homeport of Garden Island, Sydney, in time for Anzac Day (April 25).
Returning from a six-month deployment to the Middle East Area of Operations, the Anzac-class frigate, carrying 185 men and women, was welcomed alongside by Mr Combet and Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Stephen Gilmore AM CSC RAN, along with family and friends.
Mr Combet congratulated Commanding Officer HMAS 'Stuart', Commander Andrew Masters RAN, on the ship's successful deployment.
"'Stuart' contributed to maritime operations in the Persian Gulf, countering piracy off the Horn of Africa and providing maritime security," Mr Combet said.
"'Stuart' also contributed greatly to coalition efforts in the Middle East, undertaking operations in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman as part of Operation SLIPPER."
This is the third time that 'Stuart' has been deployed to the Gulf, with the frigate's return marking the completion of Navy's 22nd rotation since September 2001.
HMAS 'Stuart' has been replaced by HMAS 'Parramatta', which left Garden Island last month.