1 October 1986
A Fleet Review, in the British tradition, is a formal inspection of the fleet of a navy by the monarch. Today, the purpose of reviews is celebratory, and intended to commemorate milestones. The reviews conducted in 1986, 1988 and 2013 were some of the largest and most important reviews for Australia and the Royal Australian Navy.
The 1986 International Fleet Review was held in October. It was to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the then King George V granting the title the Royal Australian Navy. At that time, it was the biggest display of warships to gather in Australia in peacetime. It included contributions from:
- the United Kingdom
- the United States
- Canada
- New Zealand
- France
- Papua New Guinea.
The Reviewing Officer was HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. He, alongside Prime Minister Bob Hawke and the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Michael Hudson took the salute from the attending ships.
One of the more grand displays of the Review was the 15-gun broadside firepower demonstration by USS Missouri. The 1986 review provided a solid foundation for the 1988 Fleet Review.
The 1988 Bicentennial Naval Review was a part of the larger celebrations that year. The review marked the 200th anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet into Sydney Cove, also known as the Australian Bicentenary. In all, 16 nations participated in the review, which was conducted by their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of York.
The presence of HMS Ark Royal and USS New Jersey generated a lot of interest from protesters. The protesters were also known as the ‘Paddlers for Peace’ as they were concerned about nuclear accidents in Sydney Harbour. Despite the interruptions, the review was a success.
The 1986 Fleet Review celebrated the British government’s decision to establish an Australian Navy. The 2013 International Fleet Review celebrated the 100th anniversary of the RAN entering Sydney Harbour. On this occasion, HRH Prince Harry was the Reviewing Officer. Alongside him was Governor-General Quentin Bryce. Over 50 nations participated, and the review encompassed a range of naval and non-naval ships.
All three fleet reviews are excellent examples of naval diplomacy. Australia is not the only country that conducts reviews. Likewise, Australian ships get invited to celebrate key national anniversaries all over the world.
Reviews contribute to the strengthening of maritime networks and navy-to-navy ties. In this way, they are similar to exercises and operations. The presence of so many warships operating together in peacetime helps contribute to good relations.