Australia will increase its support for international efforts to safeguard critical shipping lanes in the Red Sea against a rebel blockade.
Defense Minister Richard Marles confirmed that instead of sending a warship to the Middle East, Australia will nearly triple the number of Australian Defence Force personnel at an international navy headquarters in Bahrain, deploying up to six additional officers to the Combined Maritime Force in the new year.
The move is part of a broader mission involving 39 countries, including the US, UK, Bahrain, Canada, the Netherlands, Italy, and France, aimed at countering attacks by Houthi rebels using drones and missiles.
Australia's strategic focus remains on the Indo-Pacific region, with a total contribution of up to 16 officers expected.