THE Republic of Fiji Navy’s (RFN) diving team and small boats squadrons went through a few practical trainings last week, including a refresher training with the United States Navy diving instructors.
The RFN said diving is a crucial part of the navy as they are tasked with underwater searches, vessel disposal, limited Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) work and clearance.
The divers training focused on maximising the use of kits provided by the US team and test standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols for diving.
For the Fiji Navy’s small boat squadron, they had commenced with practical training in small boat operations with members of the Japan Self Defence Forces Navy.
According to the Fiji Navy, the training was part of the support package provided by Japan under the Official Security Assistance (OSA) program.
The program is the latest addition to Japan’s assistance program targeting economic and social development of developing countries.
The program provides equipment and supplies as well as assistance for infrastructure development to partner countries with a view to strengthening their security and deterrence capabilities.
The Fiji Navy said members of the small boats squadron had training in small boat repairs and tactical deployment on small boats.
They also conducted drills in vessels insertion and disembarking using kit and the rigid-hulled inflatable boat that was supplied by the OSA program.
The Fiji Navy thanked both the US and Japanese navies for their support in the upskilling of their naval personnel.
The Fiji Navy diving team went through a refresher training with the United States Navy diving instructors. Picture: REPUBLIC OF FIJI NAVY
