Australia’s warships hunt submarines in high-stakes defense drill

• The Royal Australian Navy conducted a major Anti-Submarine Warfare Exercise (ASWEX) this month using four Anzac-class frigates as a single combat task group. The exercixe, ASWEX 25, tested coordinated sea defenses and reinforced Australia’s ability to counter undersea threats.
• Aircraft from Australia and New Zealand supported the operation, which unfolded off the country’s west coast.
• The Navy used the exercise to build readiness ahead of fleet upgrades and to protect maritime trade routes essential to Australia’s economy.

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Australia launched a coordinated naval exercise this month involving four Anzac-class frigates operating as a single task force off the country’s western coastline. The exercise, known as ASWEX 25, aimed to sharpen anti-submarine warfare capabilities and demonstrate Australia’s readiness to protect its maritime interests.

The participating warships, HMAS Warramunga, Toowoomba, Stuart, and Arunta, formed the core of a surface combatant group directed by the Australian Maritime Task Group. The fleet operated alongside HMAS Choules, HMAS Hobart and air assets from both the Royal Australian Navy and the air forces of Australia and New Zealand. These included MH-60R helicopters and P-8A Poseidon aircraft, which together supported a comprehensive sea control and deterrence mission.

What do Anzac-class frigates bring to the exercise?

Anzac-class frigates serve as the backbone of the Royal Australian Navy’s anti-submarine defense. Each vessel integrates advanced radars, sonar and electronic warfare systems into a unified combat data environment. Weapons include MU90 torpedoes, Harpoon missiles, the Mark 45 naval gun, and vertical launch systems capable of deploying Evolved Sea Sparrow missiles.

Commanders emphasized the value of operating these frigates as part of a unified formation. Lieutenant Scott Smith of HMAS Warramunga described the task group configuration as essential training for realistic, high-threat scenarios. Lieutenant Commander Darcy Cook, a senior officer aboard HMAS Toowoomba, said the exercise reinforced Australia’s ability to detect and counter undersea threats through layered maritime defense.

How does the exercise fit in to regional security concerns?

ASWEX 25 follows recent reports of Chinese naval forces conducting operations around Australia, including the suspected deployment of a nuclear-powered submarine during a Chinese flotilla’s circumnavigation of the continent earlier this year. That activity added urgency to Australia’s efforts to reinforce undersea warfare readiness and strengthen its maritime deterrence posture.

Australia lies within key zones of strategic interest under the U.S.-led island chain defense model, which aims to curb Chinese military influence in the Indo-Pacific. As a member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance and the Quad partnership, Australia plays a central role in collective security efforts across the region.

How does it support Australia’s defense?

Officials said the exercise emphasized both operational execution and crew training. Complex task group maneuvers, anti-submarine warfare, and gunnery exercises supported the development of mariner skills and tactical cohesion. Sailors from Australia’s east and west coasts gathered at HMAS Stirling during the shore phase to exchange operational knowledge and strengthen unit cohesion.

Leading Seaman Ronin Wetherspoon said integrating tactical data networks helped the fleet mask its position and expand its strike range. He cited new capabilities like the Naval Strike and Tomahawk missiles as key advancements in Australia’s future defense posture.

Why does submarine defense matter for Australia’s economy?

Australia’s economy relies heavily on secure maritime routes and uninterrupted port operations. Officials said ASWEX 25 helps ensure the Navy remains prepared to defend key shipping lanes and harbor infrastructure from potential submarine threats. Protecting these vital channels is central to safeguarding the flow of goods and services that sustain the country’s economy and global trade relationships.

What’s next for Australia’s naval modernization?

ASWEX 25 also provided preparation ahead of the introduction of new platforms, including the Hunter-class and general purpose frigates. Commanders said the training allowed junior personnel to gain experience operating in complex maritime environments, which will be essential as the Royal Australian Navy upgrades its surface fleet and deepens interoperability with allied forces.