Australia is set to deploy its E-7A Wedgetail military surveillance aircraft to the Strait of Hormuz, joining an international mission aimed at restoring freedom of navigation in the region, which has been heavily restricted since the onset of the US-Israel conflict in February. Defence Minister Richard Marles participated in a meeting with defence ministers from 40 countries, where they agreed on the need for collective diplomatic, economic, and military efforts to address the situation. Marles emphasized Australia's readiness to support a multinational military mission led by the United Kingdom and France. The Wedgetail, currently stationed in the United Arab Emirates, has been providing intelligence support but is not involved in offensive operations. The Australian government has also allocated $6.6 million for advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles for the UAE, enhancing its defensive capabilities. The recent federal budget included a significant increase in defence spending, amounting to $53 billion over the next decade, amidst ongoing discussions about further contributions to the mission in the Strait of Hormuz.