RAAF Poseidon deployed to monitor North Korea

In an effort to achieve the “complete, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation” of North Korea, the UNSC has placed strict limits on North Korea’s ability to import refined petroleum and crude oil, as well as its exports of coal and other mined resources.

“Operation Argos demonstrates how Australia works with allies and partners to uphold international law, contribute to regional security and deter activities that undermine peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific,” said Commander Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones

“Our P-8A crews are employing advanced surveillance capabilities to identify and monitor activity that breaches UNSC sanctions.

“These deployments build operational experience and enhance our ability to integrate seamlessly with international partners in complex environments,” Jones added.

“By combining intelligence, surveillance and operational coordination with like-minded nations, we generate a more capable and credible deterrence effect and contribute to a stable regional security environment.”

Since 2018, Australia has played a crucial role in upholding these sanctions by gathering and reporting information on illegal maritime transfers, through assets from both Air Force and Navy. Other participating nations include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States.

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Earlier this year, Defence revealed details of a near-miss altercation between an ADF MH-60R helicopter and helicopter from China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) in the international waters of the Yellow Sea.

The ADF helicopter has been operating from Anzac Class frigate HMAS Toowoomba, completing routine activities under Operation Argos.

“The PLAN helicopter matched the ADF helicopter’s altitude before closing in to an unsafe distance. The PLAN helicopter moved slightly ahead, increased speed and then rolled towards the ADF helicopter, which required evasive action to maintain safe flight,” Defence said in a statement.

“This was an unsafe and unprofessional manoeuvre that posed a risk to our aircraft and its personnel. HMAS Toowoomba and its embarked helicopter acted in accordance with international law at all times.”

Defence confirmed that there were no injuries or damage cause to ADF assets or personnel in the incident.

“Australia expects all countries, including China, to operate their militaries in a safe and professional manner,” the statement continued. “For decades, the ADF has undertaken maritime surveillance activities in the region, and does so in accordance with international law, exercising the right to freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and airspace.”