The Anzac-class frigates of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) have begun their first regional deployment of 2026, marking the start of a new rotation of naval presence in the Indo-Pacific. The departure of HMA Toowoomba (FFH 156) and HMA Warramunga (FFH 152) falls within Canberra’s plans to sustain an active maritime presence in areas considered strategic, in a regional context characterized by growing naval competition and increased military activity.
According to information released by Australia’s Department of Defence, two Anzac-class frigates set sail to carry out a deployment independently but in a complementary manner, aimed at reinforcing cooperation with regional partners, participating in international exercises, and conducting maritime presence and surveillance tasks. These operations are also part of the so-called Regional Presence Deployments, an initiative that seeks to steadily project Australia’s commitment to stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.
During their deployment, the frigates are scheduled to operate in various areas of Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific, conducting joint activities with other allied navies. Among the main objectives, the Australian Department of Defence highlighted the intention to strengthen interoperability, the exchange of operational experience, and the demonstration of the ability to integrate into multinational naval groupings, both in low-intensity scenarios and in more complex exercises.
The Anzac-class units continue to be one of the pillars of the Australian surface fleet, despite the progress of replacement and modernization programs. Over recent years, these frigates have undergone various upgrades in sensors, combat systems, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, allowing them to maintain a relevant role within the RAN’s operational framework.
With this first deployment of the year, the Royal Australian Navy reaffirms its intention to maintain a high operational tempo in the Indo-Pacific throughout 2026, anticipating new ship rotations and participation in regional exercises over the coming months.
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