Australian naval vessel joins international operation to enforce UN sanctions on North Korea

A Royal Australian Navy destroyer has joined an international operation to enforce United Nations-backed sanctions against North Korea.

HMAS Sydney, a Hobart-class guided missile destroyer, has joined Operation Argos.

It will monitor and deter illegal smuggling of sanctioned goods in the region.

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HMAS Sydney is also equipped with an embarked MH-60R helicopter.

It's the 12th time an Australian Navy vessel has been deployed in support of Operation Argos since 2018, while maritime patrol aircraft have been deployed on 13 occasions.

Other nations involved in Operation Argos include the US, UK, Canada, New Zealand, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, and South Korea.

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"Australia is committed to enforcing United Nations Security Council sanctions against North Korea until it takes concrete steps towards de-nuclearisation," Chief of Joint Operations Vice Admiral Justin Jones said.

"These deployments, as part of an international pressure campaign on North Korea to de-nuclearise, demonstrate Australia's commitment to the global rules-based order."

HMAS Sydney commanding officer Commander Grant Coleman said the vessel's crew was "honoured" to represent Australia's contribution.

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"I am pleased to bring the highly advanced sensors and capabilities of HMAS Sydney to this important surveillance and deterrence task in support of Argos," he said.

"HMAS Sydney's operational deployment follows a number of significant international engagements that have enhanced our relationships with allies and regional partners."

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