HMAS Perth II (D38) Destroyer 80cm

HMAS Perth (II) was a distinguished destroyer in the Royal Australian Navy, commissioned in 1965 as part of the Perth-class guided missile destroyers. Named after the city of Perth, it was the second ship to bear the name, following the World War II cruiser HMAS Perth (I). This ship played a pivotal role during the Cold War era, participating in numerous international exercises and serving in the Vietnam War, where it provided naval gunfire support and other key operations. Its deployments showcased Australia’s commitment to global security and allied cooperation, earning it a reputation for reliability and resilience.

At Seacraft Gallery, we take pride in presenting our handcrafted model of HMAS Perth (II). This model is crafted from high-quality timber and constructed with meticulous attention to detail to replicate the original ship’s unique features. Our skilled artisans devote over 12 weeks to creating each piece, using ship plans and historical photographs to ensure precision and authenticity. From the missile launchers to the radar systems, every element is faithfully represented. Mounted on an elegant wooden base with a name plaque, this model is a stunning tribute to HMAS Perth (II), perfect for collectors and admirers of naval history.

Key Feature of the HMAS Perth II (D38) model:

• Realistic recreation of the HMAS Perth (D38) battle ship, designed with immense attention to detail.
• Designed and hand-crafted from scratch with real-life markings and equipment.
• Frame built and constructed by hand, pained by hand, for the utmost realism.
• No plastic used’ this is made entirely from wooden planks which are hand-placed.
• Model comes with a brass nameplate on the base, and a history sheet included.
• Size specifications: 80cm x 12cm x 39cm, scale 1:165.

The history of the HMAS Perth II (D38)

Following her commissioning at Boston, Massachusetts, Perth (II) spent eight months in American waters conducting trials and exercises. On 12 February 1966 she sailed for Australia arriving at Perth, WA on 4 March where she was granted Freedom of Entry to the city.

During September 1967-April 1968; September 1968-April 1969 and September 1970-April 1971, Perth (II) served as a unit of the US Seventh Fleet operating off the coast of Vietnam providing naval gunfire support to land forces. The ship was awarded the United States Navy Unit Commendation following her first deployment, and the United States Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation after her second deployment.

In all, Perth (II) steamed over 149,000 miles on active service during the Vietnam War, fired some 30,711 five-inch rounds and came under fire on five occasions. More information on HMAS Perth‘s deployment to Vietnam can be found in the publication ‘Australia’s Navy in Vietnam’.

Over 7000 officers and sailors served in Perth (II) during her period of service. She steamed over one million miles during her career and she won numerous fleet awards for excellence; including the prestigious Duke of Gloucester’s Cup, in 1981, as the most proficient ship in the Fleet. Perth (II) had grace, speed and power, and the capacity to turn heads with her fine lines and is fondly remembered as one of Navy’s quiet achievers.

In 2001 Perth (II) was sunk as a dive site near Albany, Western Australia.