Following a five month repair and refit at Cairns, Australia, the RFNS Savenaca is finally back on home shores. According to the Republic of Fiji Navy’s social media update, during its time away the ship underwent routine maintenance and repairs onboard the ship.
“The RFN is glad the ship and crew is back and look forward to upcoming operations where the ship ship will be fully utilised,” the RFN stated.
“RFNS Savenaca is part of Australia’s support towards Fiji in maritime security under the Vuvale partnership.
The navy acknowledged the huge support of Australia under the Pacific Maritime Security Partnership in refitting RFNS Savenaca.
“The return of the RFNS Savenaca and the additional training gained by the ships company strengthens the capability of the navy fleet in terms of readiness and response to maritime security threats, environmental and resource protection and humanitarian response.”
The navy stated that several milestones were achieved including how it was the first international voyage with navy women onboard.
“Participation in regional defence exercise KAKADU that was held in Northern Australia involved 15 warships including a submarine and 34 aircraft from 22 different nations along with more than 3000 sailors and officers.”
The ship’s company also completed 17 courses across Cairns and Melbourne while the RFNS Savenaca was on the slipway.
RFNS Savenaca (401) is a Guardian-class patrol boat, being built in Australia for Fiji’s Navy.
She replaced RFNS Kula, a Pacific Forum patrol vessel provided by Australia in 1994. She was the seventh vessel of the class to be completed, and the second of two to be delivered to Fiji. RFNS Savenaca was be commissioned in April of 2020.
