The Australian Defence Magazine has reported Fiji is to get a new patrol boat from Australia to replace the Puamau that hit a reef and is now de-commissioned.
The report states, manufacturers of the patrol boar, Austal has named the vessel Timo and transferred a Fiji flag to the boat that is currently at its base in Henderson, near Perth.
“The name Timo likely comes from Able Seaman Timo Puamau who died during World War II. While Timo was previously honoured by RFNS Puamau, given that vessel’s short life span, his first name appears to be destined for the future RFNS Timo,” reports the Australian Defence Magazine.
“There’s a plan for a replacement. That will be made known in due time. That’s good news,” Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua had stated on 23rd October.
It’s understood Mr Tikoduadua will be headed to Perth on November 22nd to inspect the new vessel.
