ABSTRACT
In mid-1951, HMAS Sydney deployed to Korea. This was the only time that an Australian aircraft carrier undertook an operational deployment, and it is one of the rare occasions that a smaller navy has contributed this capability in a conflict scenario. This chapter will explore the decision-making behind Sydney's deployment, revealing the political value and symbolism of an aircraft carrier and its significance within coalition relations and wider diplomacy. It will also examine the deployment on an operational level, highlighting some of the challenges and opportunities of coalition warfare.
