HMAS Hawk (M 1139), originally built for the Royal Navy as HMS Gamston, was a Ton-class minesweeper constructed by Richards Ironworks in Lowestoft, England. Launched on 1 July 1954, she was initially named HMS Gamston but was renamed HMS Somerleyton prior to entering service. The vessel's specifications are characteristic of the Ton-class minesweepers, designed for mine clearance and patrol duties, although specific dimensions and armament details are not provided in the source. In 1961, the ship was sold to Australia and commissioned into the Royal Australian Navy as HMAS Hawk on 18 July 1962. During her service with the RAN, Hawk played a significant role during the Indonesia-Malaysia Confrontation, a conflict marked by limited warfare along the Malaysia-Indonesia border. Notably, she became the second Australian minesweeper to see action in this conflict on 13 March 1966, when she was targeted by an Indonesian shore battery while patrolling off Raffles Light. The attacking shore battery fired eleven high explosive rounds at Hawk, some landing within 200 yards, prompting her to withdraw at high speed to safety. The next day, Hawk intercepted and apprehended five Indonesians from a sampan, underscoring her patrol and interdiction capabilities. Hawk's service during this period was recognized with the battle honour "Malaysia 1964–66," reflecting her active contribution to Australian military efforts during the confrontation. She continued her operational duties until she was paid off on 7 January 1972, marking the end of her service. The vessel's operational history highlights her role in maritime patrol, mine clearance, and military engagement during a critical period of Southeast Asian conflict, contributing to Australia's naval efforts in the region.

This description has been generated using GPT-4.1-NANO based on the Vessel's wikidata information and then modified by ShipIndex.org staff.