The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has deployed a P-8A Poseidon aircraft and 50 aviators to Andersen Air Force Base in Guam for Exercise Sea Dragon 2026.
Held throughout March, Exercise Sea Dragon 26 is United States Navy-led, multinational, Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) training activity involving the Indian Navy, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
Across the two-week exercise, aviators from the recently re-formed No. 12 Squadron will test their skills against participating nations as they work to detect and track both simulated and live submarine targets.
Participants will be challenged on speed, accuracy and coordinated mission execution, strengthening ASW proficiency and enhancing interoperability among partner forces.
Detachment Commander for Exercise Sea Dragon 26, Squadron Leader Bryce Martin, said the high-end training on offer was vital for maintaining the RAAF's operational edge.
"Exercise Sea Dragon 26 is an excellent opportunity to sharpen our skills and strengthen our international partnerships," Squadron Leader Martin said.
"The expansive overwater training area near Guam allows our aircrews to train in complex scenarios and refine coordination with the RAAF and alongside our allies and partners."
The RAAF fleet of 13 P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime aircraft plays an important role in Australia's long-range strike, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capability, and forms an essential component of Defence's ability to operate across the Indo-Pacific.
