The Royal Australian Navy Anzac Class frigate HMAS Ballarat recently completed a routine transit through the South China Sea, conducted in accordance with international law.

The operation was supported by a Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. The transit took place on 15–16 September in coordination with the United States Navy’s Arleigh Burke Class destroyer USS Dewey.

HMAS Ballarat is currently deployed on a Regional Presence Deployment throughout the Indo-Pacific. These deployments are essential to safeguarding Australia’s security and prosperity by protecting national interests, upholding a rules-based international order, strengthening relationships with partners and allies, and enhancing capability and interoperability.

Vice Admiral Justin Jones AO CSC RAN, Chief of Joint Operations, stated: “Australia has a long history of operating in the South China Sea both unilaterally as well as in conjunction with allies and partners. Operating alongside regional partners enhances interoperability and readiness to respond to shared security challenges.” Commander Dean Uren, Commanding Officer of HMAS Ballarat, added: “This activity was a component of a planned routine deployment for Ballarat to the region. It is an important demonstration of the resolve that Australia has to supporting an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, where international law is respected.”

Australian Department of Defence. The image captures HMAS Ballarat sailing in company with United States Navy Arleigh Burke-class Destroyer, USS Dewey.