Lt Hardiman was Officer of the Watch while the carrier was in the Tyrrhenian Sea at around 2.30am on 19 November 2025, during the final stages of Operation HIGHMAST. As is routine for warships, the ship was not broadcasting on AIS and was preparing to embark Italian F-35s.

The ferry was seen on radar at 15nm, later identified as the passenger ferry GNV Sirio. Although initially expected to pass safely, the ferry unexpectedly altered course towards the carrier and began closing rapidly at high speed.

Hardiman ordered PWLS to turn to starboard and, as the situation worsened, ordered astern power to reduce speed. The ship was also prepared for a possible collision. Collision was averted but this was a serious ‘near miss’ as the ferry eventually passed just just 400 yards away.

His actions protected more than 1,600 personnel embarked aboard the carrier as well as the passengers and crew of the ferry.