Navy sailor dies at sea

AN Australian Navy sailor has died during a maritime patrol operation.

Defence confirmed the death aboard an Australian Defence Vessel Cape Inscription yesterday afternoon.

The sailor was deployed under Operation Resolute which conducts patrols to combat asylum seeker boat arrivals, illegal fishing and piracy in Australian waters and around offshore territories.

Chief of the Defence Force Mark Binskin expressed his deepest sympathy to the family, friends and shipmates.

“Defence is liaising with local authorities and the cause of death is not yet known,” a Defence spokesman said.

“As such, it is not appropriate to provide further details at this time.” Defence Minister Marise Payne also shared her sympathies on behalf of the federal government.