Indonesia has accepted Australia’s offer to help search for missing submarine KRI Nanggala (402). Royal Australian Navy HMA Ships Ballarat and Sirius, both at sea on separate regional deployments, are making speed for the search area. 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, which was off the coast of Brunei, is expected to be in the search area about April 27.
“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. These two Australian ships will help expand the search area and extend the duration of the search effort.” Rear Admiral Hammond said.
Commander Joint Task Force 635 Rear Admiral Mark Hammond said the Australian Defence Force (ADF) stood with its neighbour at this distressing time. Communication was lost with the KRI Nanggala (402) while participating in a training exercise. The submarine’s last known location was about 100 kilometres north of Bali on Wednesday. She has a crew of 53 on board. The ADF remains in close contact with Indonesian Navy to determine if Royal Australian Navy can provide further assistance.
