Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull at a meeting in Sydney on August 30, 2017 (Photo: EPA/VNA)

Speaking at a Pacific maritime and naval exhibition in Sydney on Tuesday, Turnbull said the decision was made amidst North Korea’s multiple ballistic missile tests that threaten Australia’s security. Australia’s newest frigates will be equipped with the most advanced anti-missile technology to shoot down long-range missiles. Australia’s navy chief Vice Admiral Tim Barrett said this move will enhance the Australian navy’s role in the Indo-Pacific region.