A Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CP-140 Aurora Air Detachment has completed a deployment in the Indo-Pacific region, including a six-week rotation on Operation NEON.
Op NEON is the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) contribution to multinational efforts to support the implementation of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions imposed against North Korea. This deployment demonstrates Canada's unwavering commitment to promote peace and strengthen stability in the region, alongside our partners in the Pacific Security Maritime Exchange (PSMX).
The CP-140 Aurora crew monitored for suspected maritime sanctions evasion activities, in particular ship-to-ship transfers of fuel and other commodities banned by the UNSC.
Through the course of the operation, RCAF aircraft are routinely intercepted by People's Republic of China military aircraft. Most interactions have taken place in a safe and professional manner; however, when interactions are deemed unsafe, Canada addresses them directly with China through the appropriate channels.
Following Operation NEON, the CP-140 and crew proceeded to conduct a short operational visit to Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines as part of Operation PROJECTION. These visits are key opportunities for CAF engagement within the Indo-Pacific region, as Canada expands its military cooperation in the region through the Indo-Pacific Strategy.
Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces remain committed to upholding the rules-based-international order in the Indo-Pacific region and will continue to operate in international waters and airspace with due regard for safety under international law.
