For an aircraft specifically designed to be a world-leading exponent of anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and maritime surveillance, it was inevitable that there would be an invite to Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) for Air Force's P-8A Poseidons.
The world's largest international maritime exercise - RIMPAC - has kicked off, and 92 Wing's P-8A Poseidons, working out of Hawaii, have taken to the skies above the waters of the North Pacific. 11 and 12 Squadrons also contributed to the commitment.
RIMPAC provides an unsurpassed training environment for the ADF to develop its maritime warfighting capabilities - capabilities that the P-8A was built for.
Wing Commander Melissa Houston, Commanding Officer of 11 Squadron, elaborated on the aircraft's role and the benefits of participation.
"We are involved in a number of serials, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance," Wing Commander Houston said.
'The P-8A is an incredible capability. It combines advanced sensors, state-of-the-art communications and integrated networks that allow us to communicate with other fifth-generation aircraft.'
"We are working very hard at increasing our preparedness across a range of tasks."
Air Force's P-8As call RAAF Base Edinburgh home and are operated by 11, 12 and 292 Squadrons - but, at any given time, the hard-working and trusted aircraft can be found spread throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Since 2016, P-8As have deployed on a vast number of operations and exercises, securing Australia's maritime approaches and conducting surveillance of strategic areas of interest.
"The P-8A is an incredible capability. It combines advanced sensors, state-of-the-art communications and integrated networks that allow us to communicate with other fifth-generation aircraft," Wing Commander Houston said.
A key component of RIMPAC is the engagement enabling integration between Australian, allied and partner forces, right down to the person-to-person level.
"At RIMPAC 26, we have been working alongside five other nations in the maritime patrol air capability, strengthening relationships and integrating and enhancing our interoperability," Wing Commander Houston said.
RIMPAC runs from June 24 to July 31, and is held across training areas in and around the Hawaiian Islands by the Commander, US Pacific Fleet.
The exercise has had 30 iterations and Australia has proudly participated in every one.
