Navy

Photo of a museum display case featuring a large photograph of a submarine surrounded by other objects.

Discover the human stories of Australia's naval heritage

When entering this exhibition in our spectacular Tall Gallery, you'll be immersed in an atmosphere of naval tradition and service.

A S-70B Seahawk helicopter painted with tiger stripes hangs in 'flight' from the ceiling, a missile tracking radar dish protrudes from a wall, a curved wall evokes a submarine hull.

The Navy exhibition explores how the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) operates on land, in the air and under the sea, during peace and war times. Experience the richness of Australia's naval heritage through human stories of bravery, tragedy and triumph.

Now open - Navy 125

This year marks 125 years since the establishment of the Commonwealth Naval Forces that later became the Royal Australian Navy. To celebrate this significant anniversary the Museum will open a new exhibition exploring how the Navy has grown alongside Australia—from colonial defence to a modern maritime force.

Presented as a temporary display in the Navy Gallery, the exhibition brings together portrait photography, significant objects from the national collection, a graphic timeline and a major First Nations artwork. Together, they tell stories of service, courage, innovation and care at sea and on shore.

Navy 125

Become a Submariner

In the submarine section, discover the precarious world of clearance diving and mine warfare. Try the periscope and climb onto the bunks (called racks) to experience sleeping like a submariner. What would you pack for your time on a cramped submarine? It all has to fit into an impossibly small kit bag, so think carefully!