Anzac class frigate HMAS Perth has departed Fleet Base West in Western Australia to commence the Australian Defence Force’s fifth Regional Presence Deployment of 2026.
Perth will participate in training activities and port visits with regional partners, while conducting patrols in regional waters, sailing in accordance with international law, and exercising Australia’s rights to freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and airspace.
Commander Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones AO, CSC, said Australia’s near-continuous presence across the region is strengthening relationships with allies and partners, while contributing to collective security and regional stability.
“HMAS Perth’s deployment reinforces Australia’s reputation as a reliable and trusted security partner, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to working with allies and partners across the region,” Vice Admiral Jones said.
“These deployments provide valuable opportunities to deepen cooperation with regional partners and ensure our forces are prepared to work together when it matters most.
“HMAS Perth’s deployment continues Australia’s longstanding practice of operating throughout the region in accordance with international law, reinforcing our reliability as a partner and commitment to transparency.”
Perth’s Commanding Officer Commander Dylan White said the ship continued to deliver a versatile and modern maritime warfare capability as it entered its 20th year of service.
“The current HMAS Perth is the third ship to bear the name, and all three share a proud history of operational service in the South East Asia region,” Commander White said.
“The crew on HMAS Perth are proud to take on this opportunity to represent Navy and the wider ADF abroad, engage with our regional partners, and carry out their duties at sea.
“Deployments such as this rely on the ongoing support of families and loved ones at home, and the crew is deeply appreciative of the sacrifices they make while we are away.”
Commissioned into service in 2006, Perth is a long-range frigate capable of air defence, surface and undersea warfare, surveillance, reconnaissance and interdiction.
Perth last conducted a Regional Presence Deployment in late 2024, and carries approximately 170 crew and an embarked MH-60R Seahawk maritime warfare helicopter.
Through training activities and port visits with regional partners, HMAS Perth and its crew will strengthen interoperability, build professional relationships and contribute to regional security.
Further updates will be released throughout Perth’s deployment.
