Royal Australian Navy deploys hydrographic survey ship HMAS Leeuwin to Papua New Guinea

Australia’s Chief of Joint Operations Vice Admiral Justin Jones AO, CSC, RAN said the deployment reflects the enduring partnership between Australia and PNG.

“Australia and PNG have worked side-by-side in hydrographic surveying for more than 50 years, helping to chart PNG’s waters for safe maritime activity,” Vice Admiral Jones said.

“This longstanding partnership is essential to maritime trade, strengthens PNG’s sovereignty, and shows Australia is a trusted partner the Pacific can count on.

“Through activities supported by the Defence Cooperation Program and the Australian Hydrographic Office, PNG continues to build its maritime capability and contribute to a peaceful, prosperous and resilient Pacific.”

Navy personnel will also deliver mentoring and training to embarked members of the PNGDF who will play a key role in the mission by contributing local knowledge, strengthening maritime domain awareness and supporting survey operations.

Commanding Officer HMAS Leeuwin, Commander Danny Finn, said embarking PNGDF personnel highlights the strength of the partnership between the two nations.

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“Embarking PNGDF personnel provides a valuable opportunity to work, learn and share knowledge together at sea,” CMDR Finn said.

“Their local knowledge enhances our understanding of PNG’s maritime environment, while together we build the skills and interoperability needed to support regional security.

“Deployments like this strengthen our professional relationships and reflect the close ties between our defence forces, other government agencies, and personnel.”