SENATOR JOHN FAULKNER
Minister for Defence
Thursday, 20 May 2010
051/2010
Australian assistance to Cheonan sinking investigation
The Minister for Defence, Senator John Faulkner, today announced details of
the assistance which Defence has provided to the investigation into the
sinking of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy vessel Cheonan.
“Australia contributed Royal Australian Navy (RAN) officers to the Cheonan
investigation after a formal request from the South Korean Government. A
team of three RAN officers qualified in maritime accident investigation
travelled to the ROK on 13 April, forming part of a larger ROK-led
investigation team, which included members from the United States, the
United Kingdom, and Sweden”, Senator Faulkner said.
“The initial RAN team assisted with technical aspects of the investigation.
Two appropriately-qualified RAN officers also travelled to Korea to provide
assistance to a combined intelligence analysis task force as part of the
broader investigation into the sinking of Cheonan. They arrived earlier in May
and worked in a team including officers from the ROK, the United States, the
United Kingdom, and Canada.”
Senator Faulkner is currently visiting Japan for the Australia-Japan Foreign
Affairs and Defence Ministerial Consultations (‘2+2 Meeting’), which were held
in Tokyo on Wednesday evening.
“Foreign Affairs Minister Stephen Smith and I shared our concerns about the
Cheonan investigation outcomes with Japan at the 2+2 Meeting. Both Japan
and Australia support South Korea’s position on the sinking,” Senator
Faulkner said.
“Australia’s contribution to the ROK-led investigation highlights the skills and
expertise of Defence, and the Royal Australian Navy, which are valued by the
ROK and other international participants.
“Our contribution to this investigation also reflects the closeness and
importance of our relationship with the ROK and our shared interest in
maintaining regional security and stability.”
Media contacts:
Colin Campbell (John Faulkner):
02 6277 7800 or 0407 787 181
Defence Media
02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
