Australia will assume command of Combined Task Force 153 (CTF 153) starting in October, marking its first leadership role in this international mission aimed at protecting shipping routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This task force, established in April 2022, was strengthened in response to Houthi rebel attacks on shipping in the region. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) will be directing operations involving various military assets from other nations, although the Albanese government will not deploy additional resources. Australian officials emphasize that this mission is crucial for ensuring maritime security and maintaining international trade in a contested maritime environment. The command is expected to provide valuable experience for Australian personnel that could be applicable in other areas of operation. The move comes after past criticism of Australia for not responding to U.S. requests for warship deployments in the Middle East.