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Australia joins Quad maritime security mission across Indian Ocean
Daily Sun Report, Dhaka
Published: 28 Oct 2026, 11:53 PM
Image: India to Fremantle Quad-at-sea mission strengthens maritime cooperation (Source: ABF)
The Australian Border Force (ABF) has joined maritime security personnel from India, Japan and the United States in a 13-day voyage across the Indian Ocean to strengthen cooperation and operational capabilities under the 2026 Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission.
The mission began in Chennai on 25 September aboard an Indian Coast Guard vessel and concluded in Fremantle, Western Australia, on 7 October.
During the voyage, officers from the four countries worked and trained together, sharing operational expertise through exercises on maritime search and rescue, marine pollution response, maritime law enforcement and boarding operations.
The mission aimed to improve coordination, build mutual understanding and strengthen the four countries’ ability to respond collectively to maritime security challenges across the Indo-Pacific.
Commander Maritime Border Command Rear Admiral Brett Sonter said strong partnerships with regional and international counterparts were essential to Australia’s maritime security.
“The Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission is a practical demonstration of the close and enduring partnership between Australia and India, and our shared commitment with Japan and the United States to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” he said.
Sonter said the mission gave all four Quad countries an opportunity to share operational experience, build trust and strengthen professional relationships to support effective cooperation at sea.
He added that such exercises improved interoperability and enhanced the countries’ ability to respond to maritime incidents and emerging security challenges.
The mission builds on growing cooperation between the ABF’s Maritime Border Command and the Indian Coast Guard. In July 2026, the two agencies signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen practical collaboration.
The engagement is part of broader Quad efforts to promote a safe, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific through stronger maritime partnerships and improved coordination among participating countries.
Source: The Australia Today