Royal Australian Navy Anzac Class frigate HMAS Ballarat has conducted a routine transit through the South China Sea in accordance with international law.
The transit was conducted with support from a United States Navy P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
HMAS Ballarat is currently on a three-month-long Regional Presence Deployment in the Indo-Pacific region.
This is Australia's fourth Regional Presence Deployment for 2025, and demonstrates the Australian Defence Force's commitment and ability to maintain a near permanent presence in the region to support regional security and stability.
These deployments play a vital role in our long-term security and prosperity by protecting Australia's interests, preserving an international rules-based order, enhancing cooperation, and relationships with regional partners and allies, and developing capability and interoperability.
Imagery and video from HMAS Ballarat on Regional Presence Deployment in the South China Sea is available form http://images.defence.gov.au/S20253136
Quotes attributable to Chief of Joint Operations, Vice-Admiral Justin Jones AO CSC RAN:
"For decades, Defence has undertaken maritime 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.
"The South China Sea is a vital waterway for the entire international community."
Quotes attributable to Commanding Officer HMAS Ballarat, Commander Dean Uren:
"The Indo-Pacific is one of the world's most important maritime areas."
"This training and engagement forms a critical part of our three-month Regional Presence Deployment."
"By maintaining this continuous presence alongside our allies and partners, we demonstrate our commitment to supporting an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific."
