Addressing the event, Rear Admiral Christopher Smith, the Commander Australian Fleet, warmly welcomed delegations from navies of countries participating in the exercise, affirming that the exercise includes many combat and non-combat activities. This is also an opportunity for the participating navies to learn from each other, promote mutual understanding, and strengthen friendship for peace, stability and cooperation in the region.

According to the organizing panel, 30 countries sent high-ranking delegations including staff officers, ships and aircraft to participate in Exercise Kakadu 2024. The main forces participating in the exercise includes 11 surface ships; one submarine; four F-35 fighters; five reconnaissance and maritime patrol aircraft; and seven ship-based helicopters.

Ship 18 of Brigade 171 of Naval Region 2, led by Senior Captain Nguyen Viet Anh, Deputy Chief-of-Staff of Naval Region 2, arrived at Coonawarra Port in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia on September 8 to participate in non-combat activities in this exercise. The exercise is held both at port and at sea, lasting from September 9 to 19.

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Rear Admiral Christopher Smith, Commander Australian Fleet, addresses the opening ceremony of Exercise Kakadu 2024.
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Rear Admiral Nguyen Viet Khanh joins the traditional smoking ceremony of local people at the event.
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The Vietnamese delegation at the opening ceremony
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The Vietnamese delegation at the opening ceremony
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An overview of the event

Translated by Minh Anh