As a result of her new configuration, the vessel was redesignated AKA-9 on 26 November 1942. Finally, over eight months after being torpedoed, "Alhena" returned to duty in the South Pacific. She left Sydney on 10 June 1943 and shaped a course for Nouméa. During the next few months, the ship was engaged in runs between Nouméa and Guadalcanal and also made port calls at Auckland, New Zealand, to take on cargo. In late October and November 1943, "Alhena" took part in operations on November 1Bougainville, the largest of the Solomon Islands. Although taken under enemy attack several times, "Alhena" discharged her troops and supplies without sustaining any damage.