Australia engages in Pacific maritime security and faces mine warfare capability gaps

Australia is currently participating in regional maritime security efforts while facing internal concerns regarding its domestic mine countermeasures capabilities. Through Operation Nasse, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) joined partners led by the French Armed Forces to protect Pacific fisheries. The operation involved monitoring over 262,000 square kilometres, resulting in the challenging and boarding of 42 vessels of interest to deter illegal fishing.

Australia contributed the ADV Reliant, specialist personnel, and support for Guardian-class patrol boats used by Pacific nations. This cooperation aims to enhance maritime domain awareness and information sharing across the region, involving nations such as Fiji, Nauru, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu.

Separately, concerns have been raised regarding the decline of Australia's dedicated mine countermeasures force. Following the 2024 cancellation of Project Sea 1905, which intended to introduce autonomous surface and underwater craft, the Royal Australian Navy's fleet of Huon-class minehunters has decreased from six vessels to just two ageing ships. Experts suggest this leaves Australia vulnerable to economic coercion and maritime disruption, as the nation relies heavily on sea routes for international trade and liquid fuel imports.