A 20-year-old will face court on Wednesday after being charged by the Australian Federal Police for his role in smuggling 21 kilograms of methamphetamine into Sydney.

The AFP are working alongside the United States’ Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to investigate a transnational drug trafficking syndicate targeting Australia.

As part of the probe, the AFP arrested two men in Freshwater on Sydney's Northern Beaches, on June 14 after they allegedly collected 21kg of purported methamphetamine.

The illicit drugs were contained in 40 packages and transported inside two duffel bags.

The 21kg of methamphetamine has an estimated street value of $18 million.

The 20-year-old was charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of unlawfully imported border controlled drugs.

He faces life behind bars.

The other man was released, pending further investigation.

AFP Detective Superintendent Kristie Cressy said transnational organised crime in any form was a national security threat.

“The illegal and harmful drugs that organised crime syndicates import into Australia make our communities less safe,” she said.

“The use of illegal substances causes immeasurable harm on users and their families. Territorial drug disputes spill into suburbs and put innocent people at risk, drug-affected drivers are a menace on the roads all in the name of profit for organised crime syndicates.

“That is why the AFP works closely with law enforcement and intelligence partners locally and internationally to disrupt these groups that seek to harm Australians and profit at the expense of our communities.”

Supt Cressy thanked the men and women who helped protect Australians from the “scourge” of illegal drugs flowing into the country from overseas.

The investigation remains ongoing.