Media Release
31 July 2026
Australian HMAS Choules is in Indonesia, from 20 July until 1 August, for Exercise Pacific Partnership 26, a United States-led activity that strengthens international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities and co-operation in the Indo-Pacific.
113 specialist personnel from Australia, Canada, Germany and the United States disembarked from HMAS Choules at the Sumatran port of Sibolga to work alongside Indonesian authorities, delivering essential humanitarian services to local communities.
Australian Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones AO, CSC, RAN, said, “Australia has participated in Pacific Partnership since 2008, providing specialist personnel including health and medical professionals, as well as Royal Australian Navy ships for sealift support.”
Australia hosted representatives from Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas), Ministry of Home Affairs, National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB), and National Search and Rescue Agency (BASARNAS) on board HMAS Choules to explore opportunities to deepen our bilateral civil cooperation on disaster response.
“Australia and Indonesia share a long history of supporting one another during times of need, and Sibolga carries special historical significance for its proximity and support to Operation Sumatra Assist II in 2005,” said Vice Admiral Justin Jones AO, CSC, RAN.
HMAS Choules commemorated the nine ADF members who lost their lives when the Royal Australian Navy Sea King helicopter, Shark 02, crashed on the island of Nias while delivering humanitarian assistance during Operation Sumatra Assist II. The service honoured the victims and the people of Nias who rescued the survivors.
Pacific Partnership 26 advances three important outcomes for Australia, aligned to the 2026 National Defence Strategy: strengthening regional partnerships; improving preparedness for humanitarian and disaster responses; and building the capability and readiness of our people to support stability and security across the Indo-Pacific.
Commanding Officer of HMAS Choules, Commander Paul Hardman said the ship was a key part of how the Australian Defence Force delivered essential personnel and equipment during times of need. “The experiences and relationships we build through Pacific Partnership 26 will ensure we’re better prepared to face future challenges together in our region,” he added.
Media Inquiries: [email protected]
Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/kedubesaustralia/albums/72177720334915605