The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) have deployed their P-8A Poseidon aircraft to Andersen Air Force Base (UAM) in Guam to participate in Exercise Sea Dragon 2026, a United States Navy-led, multinational anti-submarine warfare (ASW) training activity.
The RAAF has sent a P-8A Poseidon aircraft and 50 aviators from the recently reformed No. 12 Squadron to the two-week exercise, where they will test their skills against participating nations in detecting and tracking both simulated and live submarine targets. Squadron Leader Bryce Martin, the Detachment Commander for Exercise Sea Dragon 26, emphasized the importance of the high-end training in maintaining the RAAF’s operational edge and strengthening international partnerships.
Similarly, the RNZAF has deployed a P-8A Poseidon aircraft from RNZAF Base Ohakea to Guam. Air Component Commander Air Commodore Andy Scott said that the exercise is an opportunity for crews to develop interoperability and tactical skills by working with and testing themselves against partner nations, ensuring they can work together seamlessly should the need arise.
Exercise Sea Dragon 26, held throughout March 2026, is designed for aircrews to develop their ASW skills and refine how they work together in various situations. Participants will compete for the Dragon Belt award, which tests their tactics and effectiveness in specific scenarios. The Royal Australian Air Force is the current holder of the award from the 2025 exercise.
In addition to Australia and New Zealand, the exercise includes participants from the United States, India, and Japan. Two US Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft, one P-8I from the Indian Navy, and one P-1 from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) are also taking part in the exercise.
Exercise Sea Dragon has been held annually since 2019, with JMSDF winning the Dragon Belt award in 2022, 2023, and 2024, before the RAAF claimed the title in 2025. The exercise provides a platform for allied nations to enhance their ASW capabilities and strengthen cooperation in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region.