HMAS Sydney (A 214), Melbourne (R 21), Supply (AO 195), and Yarra (DE 45). A Glimpse into the Majestic Legacy of 1960s Australian Naval Power

A Glimpse into Australian Naval Heritage: The Majestic Class Carriers

In a captivating photograph taken in the 1960s, we see a striking lineup of Australian naval power: HMAS Sydney (A 214), HMAS Melbourne (R 21), HMAS Supply (AO 195), and HMAS Yarra (DE 45). This image not only showcases the ships but also highlights the remarkable engineering and strategic advancements of the era.

Among the vessels, HMAS Sydney stands out as a notable example of the Majestic class carriers, a subclass of the British 1942 Light Fleet Carrier design. Originally laid down in April 1943 as the Terrible, she was completed as Sydney in December 1948. In this photograph, she is depicted fulfilling her role as a fast troop transport, demonstrating the versatility and capability of aircraft carriers in modern naval operations.

Alongside Sydney, we find HMAS Melbourne, laid down as Majestic in February 1945 and completed a decade later in February 1955. Notable for its innovative 5.5º angled deck and a steam catapult, Melbourne was equipped to operate jets, marking a significant evolution in naval aviation.

The youngest ship featured in the photograph is HMAS Supply, commissioned in 1962, closely followed by HMAS Yarra, which joined the fleet in 1961. This timeline provides context, indicating that the photo captures a dynamic period in the Royal Australian Navy’s history, showcasing a blend of operational readiness and technological advancement.

Together, these vessels represent not just a powerful maritime force, but also a legacy of engineering excellence and strategic foresight that has shaped Australia’s naval identity. As we look back at this remarkable era, we gain a deeper appreciation for the role of these ships in both history and contemporary naval operations.