AP-3C Orion's last flight in Middle East

via Australian Department of Defense.

the AP-3C Orion operating in the Middle East Area of Operations passes HMAS Anzac during the last operational flight in the Middle East before returning home. As a farewell gesture the Orion dispensed flares as it heads for home. Since Operation SLIPPER commenced in 2001, Australia has maintained a maritime contribution to operations in the MEAO. Currently this consists of a Major Fleet Unit, the Anzac Class Frigate, HMAS Anzac, which is flexibly cross tasked between US-led Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) Combined Task Forces (CTFs) 150 (counter terrorism), 151 (counter-piracy) and 152 (Gulf maritime security). CMF patrols more than 2.5 million square miles of international waters to conduct both integrated and coordinated operations with a common purpose; to increase the security and prosperity of the region by working together for a better future.