Australia to Deploy Surveillance Aircraft for Hormuz Security Mission

(MENAFN) Australia has announced it will contribute a high-tech surveillance aircraft to an international mission aimed at safeguarding shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports.

Defense Minister Richard Marles confirmed the deployment of a Boeing E-7 Wedgetail following a virtual meeting involving defense ministers from more than 40 countries, as reported by local media.

The aircraft, one of the world’s most advanced airborne early-warning and surveillance platforms, had previously been deployed to the region in March as part of efforts linked to protecting maritime security in the Gulf area.

The multinational initiative is being led by the United Kingdom and France and focuses on maintaining safe navigation through one of the world’s most strategically important energy corridors.

Officials emphasized that Australia’s participation will remain strictly defensive in nature. Marles stated that the deployment is intended to support broader diplomatic efforts and reduce the risk of further escalation in the region.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers warned that continued instability in the Middle East could already be influencing global energy markets and may place additional pressure on Australia’s economy through rising inflation and slower growth.

Tensions in the region escalated after US and Israeli strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, which triggered Iranian retaliation against Israel and US-aligned Gulf states and led to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

A ceasefire was established on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, although subsequent negotiations in Islamabad failed to produce a lasting settlement. The truce was later extended indefinitely by US President Donald Trump.

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