Wednesday 28 / October / 2026
Canberra: The Australian Border Force (ABF), along with counterparts from India, Japan and the United States, participated in a 13-day maritime mission across the Indian Ocean to strengthen operational capabilities and cooperation under the 2026 Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission.
Officers from the four countries embarked on an Indian Coast Guard vessel that departed Chennai on September 25 and arrived in Fremantle, Western Australia, on October 7.
During the voyage, the officers conducted joint training and shared operational expertise through exercises covering maritime search and rescue, marine pollution response, maritime law enforcement and boarding operations.
The mission aimed to enhance coordination, build mutual understanding and strengthen the four countries' collective capacity to address maritime security challenges across the Indo-Pacific region.
Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, Commander of Australia's Maritime Border Command, emphasised the importance of strong partnerships with regional and international counterparts in safeguarding Australia's maritime security.
He said the mission demonstrated the close and enduring partnership between Australia and India, alongside their shared commitment with Japan and the United States to maintaining a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Sonter added that the initiative provided an opportunity for the four Quad countries to exchange operational experience, build trust and strengthen professional relationships, supporting more effective cooperation at sea.
He noted that such exercises also enhanced interoperability and improved the countries' ability to respond collectively to maritime incidents and emerging security challenges.
