RAN’s future fleet replenisher Supply begins sea trials

The future HMAS Supply, the lead ship of a new class of auxiliary oiler replenishment (AOR) vessels ordered for the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), has departed the facilities of Spanish shipbuilder Navantia to commence its initial sea trials.

The 173- by 23-metre vessel will be operated by personnel from Navantia and the RAN during the trials.

The future Supply is scheduled to sail for Australia before the end of August. Once in service, it will be used to support deployed naval task forces by carrying food, water, fuel, ammunition, dry cargo, spare parts, and other essential equipment.

Secondary missions will include pollution control and humanitarian and disaster relief (HADR) operations.