Australia's military operations in the South China Sea

Australia continues to conduct routine military operations in the South China Sea, asserting its commitment to international law and freedom of navigation in the contested region. These activities, which include naval patrols and aerial surveillance, are framed by the Australian government as essential to maintaining stability and open maritime transit routes that are critical to the nation’s trade interests.

The Australian Defence Force maintains a regular presence in the area as part of its ongoing engagement with regional partners. These operations are conducted in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, emphasizing the right of all nations to exercise freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters.