The US Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane this week made its inaugural visit to the country, as part of the Shiprider Agreement Fiji has been a part of since 2018.
Commanding Officer Commander Nicole Tesoniero highlighted the significance of the ship’s presence in the Blue Pacific Oceania region, emphasised the commitment to strengthening maritime governance and co-operation with allies and partners.
“So this allowed us to work alongside our allies and partners and focus on the issues that are most important to Fiji, making sure that we were giving Fiji the reach,” she said.
“So that Fiji can enforce fisheries laws throughout its exclusive economic zone and that is why we are here.”
The deployment of the Harriet Lane to the Pacific stems from the commitment the US made during the inaugural Pacific Islands Summit in September 2022.
“Harriet Lane was identified as a platform to bringing out that commitment to Pacific Islands, like Fiji.
“Since then, the ship has been actively engaged in supporting Operation Blue Pacific, which focuses on enhancing maritime security and co-operation in the region.
“During its stop in Suva, the Harriet Lane collaborated with Fijian ship riders representing various agencies, including fisheries, immigration, customs, and the Royal Fijian Navy.”
Joint boarding operations were conducted in Fiji’s exclusive economic zone, demonstrating the partnership between the US and Fiji in enforcing maritime laws and ensuring regional security.
“With a crew of approximately 100 personnel, the Harriet Lane has the capability to operate independently for up to 21 days, without the need for reprovisioning or refuelling,” Cmdr Tesoniero pointed out.
This endurance allows the ship to extend its reach throughout the region, working alongside Fijian Guardian-class patrol boats and other partners to enforce the rules-based order and address emerging threats.
During the visit, journalists had the opportunity to tour the ship and learn about its operations firsthand. They witnessed demonstrations of boarding practices and observed the ship’s command and control centre, where navigation and mission execution are co-ordinated.
The deployment of the Harriet Lane underscores the US’ enduring commitment to the Pacific region and its efforts to promote stability, security, and prosperity.
By working closely with Pacific Island nations such as Fiji, the US Coast Guard aims to enhance maritime governance, combat illicit activities such as illegal fishing and drug trafficking, and build enduring partnerships for the future.
As Harriet Lane continues its deployment, it will further engage with Pacific Island nations, including upcoming stops in Vanuatu.
The ship’s presence serves as a symbol of co-operation and friendship between the US and its partners in the Indo-Pacific, ensuring a safer and more secure maritime environment for all.
