HMAS Protector (ASR 241)

The second HMAS "Protector" (ASR 241) was a Royal Australian Navy trials and submarine rescue ship.

Previously the MV "Blue Nabilla" operated by the National Safety Council of Australia, "Protector" was purchased by the Navy in 1990, fitted with a LIPS dynamic positioning system, two Remotely Operated Vehicles and a recompression chamber. She supported the Collins class submarine trials and acceptance process from 1992, as well as undertaking surveillance, training and diving support.

During 1997, "Protector" undertook a search for the remains of HMAS Sydney. [ [http://www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/jfadt/sydney/Sydch_8.htm Report on loss of HMAS Sydney, Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade, March 1999] ]

While "Protector" was decommissioned in 1998 she was sold to the Navy's support craft contractor, Defence Maritime Services, and remains in use as a training ship operating out of HMAS "Creswell" under the name "Seahorse Horizon". [ [http://www.defence.gov.au/news/navynews/editions/1998/06_01_98/010698story7.htm Navy News 1 June 1998] ]

In 2002, Seahorse Horizon took part in Exercise Dugong, laying and recovering mines. [ [http://www.defence.gov.au/news/NAVYNEWS/editions/4517/story10.htm Navy News 2 Sep 2002] ]

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