On 24 July it was announced that the Anzac class frigate HMAS Perth has departed Fleet Base West in Western Australia to commence the Australian Defence Force’s 5th Regional Presence Deployment of 2026.
Perth will participate in training activities and port visits with regional partners, while conducting patrols in regional waters, sailing in accordance with international law, and exercising Australia’s rights to freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and airspace.
Commander Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones said Australia’s near-continuous presence across the region is strengthening relationships with allies and partners, while contributing to collective security and regional stability.
“HMAS Perth’s deployment reinforces Australia’s reputation as a reliable and trusted security partner, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to working with allies and partners across the region,” Vice Admiral Jones said.
“These deployments provide valuable opportunities to deepen cooperation with regional partners and ensure our forces are prepared to work together when it matters most. HMAS Perth’s deployment continues Australia’s longstanding practice of operating throughout the region in accordance with international law, reinforcing our reliability as a partner and commitment to transparency.”
Perth’s Commanding Officer Commander Dylan White said the ship continued to deliver a versatile and modern maritime warfare capability as it entered its 20th year of service.
The Department of Defence said, “Through training activities and port visits with regional partners, HMAS Perth and its crew will strengthen interoperability, build professional relationships and contribute to regional security.”
Source: ADF
