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Elements of the Australian Defence Force’s Space and Cyber Commands have strengthened its cooperation with regional partners and key allies through its participation in the multinational Exercise Cobra Gold 2026, held in Thailand.
Running from 23 February to 6 March, the exercise brought together thousands of military personnel from across the Indo-Pacific and beyond, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to regional security and defence cooperation.
This year, the ADF deployed around 19 personnel to integrate into the multinational headquarters element, contributing specialist expertise in space and cyber operations, as well as military command and control.
Chief of Joint Operations Justin Jones said the deployment highlighted Australia’s role as a dependable and capable security partner in the region.
“The ADF personnel who took part in Exercise Cobra Gold gained valuable experience operating as part of an Australian joint force within a complex multinational environment,” VADM Jones said.
“They brought specialist expertise not only in command and control, but also in space and cyber operations, which are increasingly important to maintaining stability and security across the region.
“Participating in exercises like Cobra Gold builds individual experience while strengthening the professional relationships and collective capability that underpin effective multinational operations.”
First held in 1982 between Thailand and the United States, Cobra Gold has grown into one of the largest multinational military exercises in the Indo-Pacific.
The 2026 exercise involved more than 8,000 personnel from 30 nations, conducting activities across land, sea, air, cyber and space domains to improve interoperability and readiness.
Led by Thailand, the exercise focuses on planning and coordinating complex multinational operations to respond to regional security challenges and small-scale conventional threats across the Pacific.
Australia’s participation underscores the country’s ongoing commitment to strengthening partnerships, improving joint capability, and supporting stability across the Indo-Pacific region.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
