The Minister for Home Affairs, Pio Tikoduadua, traveled to Australia on Thursday to officially receive a new vessel to replace the recently decommissioned Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Navy Ship, RFNS Puamau. This ship, which had a value of $18 million, tragically ran aground on Fulaga Reef, Lau, during a routine journey on June 10, just one month after its donation from the Australian government to Fiji.
The new ship, a Guardian-class patrol boat called RFNS Timo, is set to enhance Fiji’s maritime capabilities, as emphasized by Mr. Tikoduadua. He noted that the addition of this replacement vessel bolsters the nation’s capacity to protect its waters, safeguard natural resources, and maintain regional security. Moreover, this acquisition symbolizes the strong partnership and mutual commitment between Fiji and Australia.
This new development highlights the importance of international cooperation in maritime security and reflects an ongoing dedication to enhancing Fiji’s naval capabilities. The hope is that this replacement vessel will contribute significantly to the safety and security of Fiji’s waters, allowing the nation to address various challenges effectively.
By reinforcing its naval resources, Fiji stands poised to better defend its marine environment and interests, representing a proactive step toward ensuring regional stability and collaboration.
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