Japanese oiler resupplies USS America at sea

26 May 2021

From Lt. John Stevens, USS America

The amphibious assault ship conducted an underway replenishment with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's JS Hamana (AOE 424).

Download

The amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) conducts a replenishment-at-sea with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force replenishment ship JS Hamana (AOE-424).

JS Hamana (AOE-424) sails alongside USS America (LHA 6) during a replenishment-at-sea. (U.S. Navy/MC3 Jomark A. Almazan)

PACIFIC OCEAN - America-class amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) conducted a bilateral replenishment-at-sea (RAS) with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Towada-class replenishment ship JS Hamana (AOE 424), May 22.

For the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious assault ship, operations like this highlight shared maritime capabilities among partners and allies, while sharpening logistics coordination and interoperability.

“It’s such an honor to work and train with our trusted ally and partner once again,” said Capt. Ken Ward, America’s commanding officer. “The captain and crew of the Hamana performed flawlessly, and were consummate professionals from planning through to completion of the replenishment-at-sea evolution. We always enjoy working with our Japanese friends, and we relish every opportunity we get to operate with each other. Every encounter delivers a positive reinforcement of our shared values and mutual commitment to security and stability.”

This is the first RAS between the Navy and JMSDF since USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) operated with both Hamana and the French frigate FNS Prairial (F 731) in the Pacific Ocean on Feb. 19.

America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the forward-deployed ships of Amphibious Squadron 11, are operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.