HMAS Hobart takes part in Indonesia fleet review as part of regional presence deployment

French Navy (Marine Nationale) AOR Jacques Chevallier, conducting replenishment at sea with HMAS Hobart during exercise La Perouse 2025. Source: Defence Image Library

HMAS Hobart has arrived at the Port of Benoa, Bali, to participate in two of Indonesia’s most significant maritime events of 2025 – the International Fleet Review and Exercise Komodo.

HMAS Hobart has arrived at the Port of Benoa, Bali, to participate in two of Indonesia’s most significant maritime events of 2025 – the International Fleet Review and Exercise Komodo.

Marking the 80th anniversary of the Indonesian Navy’s formation, the International Fleet Review will showcase Indonesia’s naval heritage and capabilities. Meanwhile, Exercise Komodo 2025 will bring together 15 nations for multinational maritime training, strengthening regional cooperation and interoperability.

Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO, RAN, highlighted the significance of these events, emphasising Indonesia’s growing maritime influence, saying, “I extend my congratulations to the Indonesian Navy on 80 years of distinguished service. Their professionalism and capability make them a leading maritime force in the Indo-Pacific,” VADM Hammond said.

“As close maritime neighbors, Australia and Indonesia share vital security interests. Strengthening our cooperation is essential to maintaining regional stability.”

Running from 16 to 22 February, Exercise Komodo 2025 will feature joint maritime training, including a multinational search and rescue scenario. Chief of Joint Operations Vice Admiral Justin Jones AO CSC, RAN, noted Australia’s long-standing support for the exercise.

“Our continued participation in Exercise Komodo, alongside other bilateral and multilateral engagements with Indonesia, reflects our commitment to a secure, open, and resilient Indo-Pacific,” VADM Jones said.

“The crew of HMAS Hobart is honoured to take part in Indonesia’s largest fleet review and Exercise Komodo. We look forward to a successful and collaborative engagement.”

HMAS Hobart’s participation in Exercise Komodo 2025 is part of the Australian Defence Force’s first regional presence deployment for the year, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to maintaining a strong and consistent presence in the Indo-Pacific.

Australia’s regional presence deployments reinforce the nation’s dedication to maintaining a consistent and active presence in the Indo-Pacific, contributing to regional security and stability.

These deployments are critical to safeguarding Australia’s long-term security and prosperity. They support national interests by upholding a rules-based international order, strengthening partnerships with regional allies and enhancing operational capability and interoperability.

For decades, Australia has actively engaged with Indo-Pacific nations, fostering cooperation and reinforcing shared commitments to a peaceful, stable and resilient region where sovereignty and independence are respected.

Australian naval vessels and aircraft will continue to operate in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea while exercising freedom of navigation and supporting others in doing the same.

The success of regional presence deployments is made possible by the dedication of Royal Australian Navy personnel and the invaluable support of their families at home.

You need to be a member to post comments. Become a member for free today!