Increased Defence Surveillance
The Australian Defence Force will immediately commence an enhanced surveillance patrol and response operation in international waters between the Indonesian archipelago and Australia.
The operation will involve five navy vessels and four P3 Orion aircraft.
The enhanced operation will be reviewed after three weeks.
An Australian Defence Force mission travelled to Jakarta yesterday to fully brief Indonesian authorities.
The Indonesians have welcomed the advance notice of the operation and have offered port visits and refuelling facilities for the Australian vessels.
1 September 2001
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