Australia to deploy spy plane for mission securing Strait of Hormuz shipping

Australia has announced it will deploy a high-tech surveillance aircraft to support multinational efforts aimed at ensuring the safe passage of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Defence Minister Richard Marles said the government plans to contribute an E-7A Wedgetail early warning and control aircraft following a virtual meeting with international defence ministers on May 12, Caliber.Az reports via SBS News. 

The aircraft, described as a world-leading airborne surveillance platform, was previously deployed to the region in March to assist in defending the United Arab Emirates from potential Iranian strikes.

Marles said Australia and more than 40 partner countries reaffirmed their commitment during the meeting to support maritime navigation through the strategic waterway under a joint mission led by the United Kingdom and France.

Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has reportedly fallen sharply since the outbreak of regional conflict, following US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. The strait is a critical global energy chokepoint, with roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas passing through it.

Australia said the planned contribution would be strictly defensive in nature.

"Australia stands ready to support an independent and strictly defensive Multinational Military Mission, led by the United Kingdom and France, once it is established," Marles said.

He added that the mission is intended to complement diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions.

"We want to see this conflict end, the Strait of Hormuz open and freedom of navigation resume," Marles said.

By Sabina Mammadli