The U.S. Seventh Fleet announced that Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Dewey and Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Ballarat conducted a two-day bilateral transit and training operation on September 15–16, 2025, in the South China Sea. The exercises included formation sailing, maritime communications drills, simulated firings, and coordinated maneuvers. USS Dewey, equipped with the Aegis combat system and a large vertical launch magazine, provided long-range air defense and strike capabilities, while Ballarat contributed with its CEAFAR radar suite and Evolved Sea Sparrow missiles for local air defense.
Dewey managed area air defense and target deconfliction, while Ballarat handled mid-layer missile engagements and stabilized radar tracks. Both vessels conducted submarine tracking using MH-60R helicopters and shared tactical data via secure links. Drills emphasized radar monitoring, communication discipline, and simulated firing sequences to maintain readiness.
The South China Sea remains a dense and contested operational environment. Such joint maneuvers strengthen coordination, reinforce allied presence, and demonstrate adherence to freedom of navigation principles. Washington and Canberra continue to operate under international law, deepening defense ties under AUKUS, while modernizing surface combatant sensors and weapons to ensure operational readiness in the region.
