Fiji’s military should develop a hybrid capability that allows it to assist the Government and the Fiji Police Force without the need for a formal state of emergency, Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua says.

Speaking during a press conference at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces headquarters yesterday, Mr Tikoduadua said there was a need to modernise Fiji’s defence framework so the military could work more closely with law enforcement agencies on an ongoing basis.

“This type of capability would allow the RFMF to support national security operations without the need for a formal declaration of emergency before assistance can be provided,” Mr Tikoduadua said.

“Within the structure of the RFMF, units such as the 3rd Battalion Fiji Infantry Regiment, the Naval Division and the Territorial Forces are particularly well suited to this type of role. These units already operate across different parts of the country and maintain strong connections with communities.”

He said the proposal would also need to be supported by legislative reforms, particularly as Fiji reviews its national defence laws.

“As Fiji continues to review its defence framework, the proposed new Defence Act will need to reflect this evolving role of the RFMF.

“The National Security Strategy also provides guidance on how Fiji should organise its national security institutions in order to respond effectively to both traditional and non-traditional threats.

“In Parliament last week, you heard me talk about appealing to people not to go suggesting roles or ideas for the RFMF and things that they should do.”

Mr Tikoduadua said the concept of a hybrid capability had emerged in response to calls for the military to assist with the country’s growing drug problem.

“Unfortunately, right now, the law forbids RFMF to be the first responder. Apart from the Navy who are already doing work out at sea, but using, for example, Customs roles and laws, patrol and look after our area. But when you look at the rest of the laws, particularly in the areas of law and order, RFMF is always in a support role.”

He said similar arrangements already existed in other countries where defence forces were able to play a frontline role in certain security operations.