Australia joins Indonesian lost-submarine search

Indonesia has accepted Australia’s offer to assist in the search for missing submarine, KRI Nanggala (402).

FILE PHOTO: HMAS Ballarat’s embarked MH-60R Seahawk departs the ship. Photo by Leading Seaman Shane Cameron.

HMA Ships Ballarat and Sirius, both presently at sea on separate regional deployments, are making best speed for the search area.

The Anzac Class frigate Ballarat, equipped with sonar capabilities and an embarked MH-60R helicopter, is expected to be in the search area today after transiting the Lombok Strait.

The support ship Sirius is off the coast of Brunei and will be in the search area from around Tuesday. Sirius can replenish ships with fuel, water and stores by day and night.

Commander Joint Task Force 635 Rear Admiral Mark Hammond said the Australian Defence Force stood with its neighbour at this distressing time.

“My thoughts are with the submariners of KRI Nanggala, their families and the Indonesian people.

As always, we stand ready to assist our fellow mariners in the Indonesian Navy,” Rear Admiral Hammond said.

“These two Australian ships will help expand the search area and extend the duration of search effort.

“Defence remains in close contact with Indonesia to determine if Australia can provide further assistance.”

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