AUSTRALIA AND INDONESIA COMPLETE MARITIME SECURITY EXERCISE

The Royal Australian Navy and Indonesian Armed Forces have completed a six-day naval training exercise to combat illegal maritime activities.

The Armidale Class Patrol Boat HMAS Maryborough was joined by Indonesian Patrol Boats KRI Tongkol and KRI Langyang for Exercise Cassowary off the coast of Kupang, Indonesia.

Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC said the activity builds on an already strong relationship between the two nations.

“Combating illegal fishing and protecting the marine environment is not confined to jurisdictional boundaries, and no single military or government can successfully address this shared problem without a cooperative approach,” Minister Reynolds said.

“Australia and Indonesia are not only regional neighbours, but also crucial security partners in the Timor Sea and Indian Ocean.

“Every opportunity we get to work together deepens that partnership which makes both of our nations more effective at conducting maritime patrols.”

During the exercise, the two navies shared tactics, techniques and procedures that enhanced readiness and response capabilities, including maritime patrol and boarding practices. 

Australia and Indonesia have a mutual and abiding interest in the security and stability of their shared maritime domains.

The longstanding relationship between the Australian Defence Force and Indonesian Armed Forces contributes to the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region.