Australia’s involvement in the Afghanistan War, particularly through Operation Slipper, marked one of the nation’s most significant overseas military commitments since Vietnam.
The Afghanistan War began in October 2001, following the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States. The U.S. and its allies launched operations to dismantle al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban regime that harbored them. Australia, invoking the ANZUS treaty, pledged support and deployed forces under Operation Slipper, the codename for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) contribution to the war.
Operation Slipper ran from 2001 to 2014, involving combat operations in Afghanistan and maritime security missions in the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean. The first Australian troops, including Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) personnel, arrived in late 2001. They conducted reconnaissance, combat missions, and worked alongside coalition forces. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) also played a crucial role, providing transport, refueling, and surveillance capabilities.
Australia’s presence was most visible in Uruzgan Province, where ADF units were part of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). They engaged in reconstruction, training Afghan National Army units, and counter-insurgency operations. Over the course of Operation Slipper, more than 34,000 Australian personnel served, with 41 killed and 261 wounded.
Beyond combat, Australia contributed to humanitarian and reconstruction efforts, helping to build infrastructure and support local governance. However, the mission was not without controversy. Critics questioned the long-term effectiveness of coalition strategies and the human cost of the war.
Operation Slipper formally ended in 2014, transitioning to Operation Highroad, which focused on training and advising Afghan forces until Australia’s final withdrawal in 2021. The legacy of Australia’s involvement remains complex—marked by sacrifice, service, and ongoing debates about the war’s outcomes.
In summary, Operation Slipper symbolized Australia’s commitment to global security and its alliance with the United States, while leaving a lasting impact on both the ADF and the nation’s understanding of modern warfare.
Click here to see a video of tribute to our 41 Afghanistan fallen - our heroes: https://youtu.be/GgrulJ_Q5BQ?si=bEna3y-0yQ4zYviG