The latest addition to Australia’s maritime border protection capability, the ADV Ocean Protector has successfully completed its first assignment and is currently moored at Cocos (Keeling)  Islands for a change of crew and resupply before heading back out to sea to patrol the waters off north-western Australia targeting illegal activity including, people smuggling and illegal fishing.

In January, the government acquired the ADV Ocean Protector to provide further capability to safeguard the security of our maritime borders. It is a unique vessel, owned and operated by the Australian Defence Force, utilising highly trained and qualified Australian Border Force (ABF) Maritime Enforcement Officers.

ADV Ocean Protector  is the sister ship of the large-hulled Australian Border Force Cutter (ABFC) Ocean Shield and now forms part of an enhanced fleet of vessels ensuring Australian waters remain secure for decades to come.

Commander Maritime Border Command, Rear Admiral Peter Laver, said that the ABF’s mission to protect Australia’s maritime domain had been significantly boosted by the entry to service of the vessel.

“This vessel significantly increases our reach and capability in the region,” Rear Admiral Laver said.

“Our officers, vessels and aircraft are on the 24 hours a day, every day of the year, in protecting Australia’s national security.

“Maritime Border Command’s responsibilities include countering illegal maritime arrivals; illegal foreign fishing; illegal activity in protected areas; piracy, robbery and violence at sea; prohibited imports and exports; marine pollution; biosecurity; and maritime terrorism.”

Ocean Protector previously served Australia as the Australian Customs Vessel (ACV) Ocean Protector from 2010 to 2014, conducting maritime border security patrols throughout Australia’s maritime domain from Christmas Island to the Southern Ocean.