Post by meo4 on May 11, 2014 20:57:31 GMT 12
In a break from tradition, naval engineer Commander Kelvin Wishart has assumed command of the frigate HMNZS TE MANA. The Change of Command ceremony took place at the Devonport Naval Base on Thursday 8 May.
CDR Wishart takes command as the ship enters a significant period of maintenance, upgrading the platform systems onboard in preparation for a combat systems upgrade.
CDR Shane Arndell relinquished his command after leading TE MANA’s 182 crew in a seven-month deployment, including 91 days spent conducting counter-piracy operations for the Combined Maritime Forces Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) and NATO Operation Ocean Shield.
Commander Wishart is looking forward to the new challenge. “It’s a unique position to take command as an Engineer, I’m going to enjoy working alongside the engineering and support organisations as well as the warfare officers who command our other ships.
“The maintenance and upgrade programme provides an exciting step into the future for the RNZN, and I’m looking forward to leading TE MANA as part of this journey.”
CDR Wishart takes command as the ship enters a significant period of maintenance, upgrading the platform systems onboard in preparation for a combat systems upgrade.
CDR Shane Arndell relinquished his command after leading TE MANA’s 182 crew in a seven-month deployment, including 91 days spent conducting counter-piracy operations for the Combined Maritime Forces Combined Task Force 151 (CTF-151) and NATO Operation Ocean Shield.
Commander Wishart is looking forward to the new challenge. “It’s a unique position to take command as an Engineer, I’m going to enjoy working alongside the engineering and support organisations as well as the warfare officers who command our other ships.
“The maintenance and upgrade programme provides an exciting step into the future for the RNZN, and I’m looking forward to leading TE MANA as part of this journey.”