A Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft has deployed under Operation Argos, reaffirming Australia’s commitment to enforcing United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions against North Korea.
Under Operation Argos, the P-8A will support international efforts to gather information on illegal transfers of UNSC sanctioned goods to and from North Korea.
UNSC sanctions prohibit the import or export of materials used in ballistic missiles and nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction-related programs. This includes capping North Korea’s import of refined petroleum and crude oil, and its exports of coal and other mined commodities.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has contributed to international efforts to enforce these sanctions since 2018.
Sanctions enforcement operations are also conducted by other nations including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Through Operation Argos, the ADF works closely with the multinational Enforcement Coordination Cell which is responsible for monitoring, reporting and preventing illegal maritime transfers.
These international efforts impede North Korea’s ability to continue developing its illicit nuclear and ballistic missile programs, which threaten regional security and prosperity.
Operation Argos is a demonstration of Australia’s commitment to regional peace and stability, and our support for the multilateral system and the internationally agreed rules and norms that underpin our security and prosperity.
Quotes attributable to Commander Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones:
“Operation Argos demonstrates how Australia works with allies and partners to uphold international law, contribute to regional security and deter activities that undermine peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.
“Our P-8A crews are employing advanced surveillance capabilities to identify and monitor activity that breaches UNSC sanctions.
“These deployments build operational experience and enhance our ability to integrate seamlessly with international partners in complex environments.
“By combining intelligence, surveillance and operational coordination with like-minded nations, we generate a more capable and credible deterrence effect and contribute to a stable regional security environment.”
