Maritime security by the Republic of the Fiji Navy received a major boost from the Japanese Government with the handing over of fast inshore patrol boats.
According to Government, the new vessels is expected to strengthen Fiji’s ability to conduct maritime security and safety operations including surveillance, patrols, search and rescue missions, and support for whole-of-government operations across Fiji’s maritime domain.
Navy Commander Timoci Natuva said recent joint patrols with partners, including the United States Navy, were part of routine efforts to increase maritime visibility and deterred transnational criminal groups involved in drug trafficking.
“This is my 27th budget while I was working for Government, so it doesn’t change how we commit ourselves to our operations,” he said.
“Anyone that contravenes Fiji’s law, undermines the safety of our people, we will deal with it.”
The Government of Japan provided three 17-metre patrol boats under a $6 million security assistance program.
