Outgoing for incoming ... Launching decoys to distract and confuse inbound sensor-guided missiles, is a key tool in a frigate’s counter-measures armoury. Both HMNZS Te Kaha and Te Mana are now fitted with the Multi Ammunition Softkill System (MASS) as part of the extensive Frigate Upgrade Programme they’ve undertaken in Canada.
The two ships were also able to conduct exercises to improve interoperability as they sailed from the area around Kadavu Island out into the Fiji Exclusive Economic Zone to carry out patrols.
PACIFIC OCEAN (Nov. 23, 2021) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Howard (DDG 83) conducts a Replenishment at Sea with the New Zealand oiler HMNZS Aotearoa. Howard is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photos by Ensign Morgan Bollinger)