Oct 28 – The Australian Border Force (ABF) has joined counterparts from India, Japan and the United States in a 13-day maritime mission aimed at strengthening cooperation and operational capabilities across the Indo-Pacific.
The 2026 Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission saw officers from the four countries embark on an Indian Coast Guard vessel that departed Chennai on September 25 and arrived in Fremantle, Western Australia, on October 7.
During the voyage, the officers conducted joint training and exchanged operational expertise through exercises covering maritime search and rescue, marine pollution response, maritime law enforcement and boarding operations.
The mission sought to improve coordination, build mutual understanding and strengthen the four countries’ collective capacity to respond to maritime security challenges across the Indo-Pacific.
Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, Commander of Australia’s Maritime Border Command, said strong partnerships with regional and international counterparts were essential to safeguarding Australia’s maritime security.
He said the mission demonstrated the enduring partnership between Australia and India, alongside their shared commitment with Japan and the United States to maintaining a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Sonter added that the initiative enabled the four Quad countries to exchange operational experience, build trust and strengthen professional relationships, supporting more effective cooperation at sea.
He said such exercises also improved interoperability and enhanced the countries’ ability to respond collectively to maritime incidents and emerging security challenges.
