Royal Australian Navy landing helicopter dock (LHD) HMAS Adelaide and frigate HMAS Anzac have departed Darwin, signaling the launch of the main joint force element of Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2022 (IPE22), Australia’s flagship regional engagement activity.
In the largest IPE since the activity began in 2017, five ships, 11 helicopters and about 1800 personnel will work with Australia’s regional partners across the region, visiting 14 countries, from India to Indonesia to the Philippines.
Commander IPE22 Commodore Mal Wise said he was looking forward to fostering strong relationships with Australia’s Indo-Pacific neighbours from a whole-of-government perspective.
“Working with partners in the international environment is something navies have been doing for hundreds of years,” Commodore Wise said.
“Knowing and understanding the partners you have – what their sensitivities and interests are – is key to building a secure and stable neighbourhood.”
Members of all three Australian Defence Force services, as well as personnel from multiple foreign militaries and Australian government agencies, including the Australian Border Force, are participating in IPE22.
Acting superintendent Vanessa Bell said IPE22 offered the Australian Border Force a unique opportunity to strengthen its relationship with host nations in South-East Asia and the north-east Indian Ocean.
“The Australian Border Force works extensively with regional counterparts in relation to civil maritime security,” Acting Superintendent Bell said.
“By working together, we seek to realise the vision of an open, resilient and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
“Indo-Pacific Endeavour provides us the opportunity to continue our work within the region and we look forward to working with our valued partners throughout this exercise.”
IPE22 began in late September with engagements in Maldives and Timor-Leste, and will continue visits to partner nations in the coming two months before returning to Darwin in early December.
