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The New Zealand Defence Force has enhanced its current enforcement of United Nations Security Council sanctions against North Korea as a part of NZDF’s Operation Whio in November.
Supporting the Pacific Security Maritime Exchange (PSMX), New Zealand’s replenishment vessel, HMNZS Aotearoa, and maritime patrol aircraft P-8A Poseidon conducted surveillance and deterrence activities in East China waters and Yellow Sea.
“Once again, our people have demonstrated professionalism, endurance and commitment to upholding the international rules-based order,” said Commander Rob Welford, Commanding Officer of HMNZS Aotearoa.
“Through maritime patrol, airborne surveillance and international cooperation, we delivered tangible impact – from deterring illicit activity to supporting allied ships at sea. The professionalism of our own crews, and those of our partner nations, was evident throughout.”
Patrolling 410,000 square kilometres, HMNZS Aotearoa disrupted two suspected illicit ship-to-ship transfers while conducting surveillance. The crew also identified seven vessels of interest, conducted radio hails to 49 merchant ships, and issued 79 maritime deterrence messages.
P-8A Poseidon crew observed five ship-to-ship transfers, witnessed 59 vessels of interest, and issued 19 deterrence messages.
“With its surveillance capabilities, the aircraft helps build the intelligence picture, informing the PSMX and enabling timely action,” Air Component Commander Air Commodore Andy Scott said.
“Our contribution to this deployment reinforces New Zealand’s strong and enduring commitment to UN sanctions enforcement and regional security.”
Operation Whio aims to monitor and gather evidence of violations of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions on North Korea, primarily illicit ship-to-ship transfers of resources, notably petroleum products.
The PSMX is a multinational initiative focused on enforcing UNSC sanctions against North Korea and sees national operations, such as Whio, conducted in coalition with allies, emphasising the multilateral nature of sanctions-enforcement and maritime security operations.
