THE Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) has kicked off its one-week Initial Planning Conference (IPC) for Exercise Bougainville 2026 at the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service (FLIPS) in Nasese.
The conference was officially launched by RFMF Commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai, marking the first key step in preparations for the brigade-based exercise aimed at strengthening interoperability, enhancing operational readiness, and reinforcing Fiji’s commitment to national and regional security. Land Force Command Chief of Staff Colonel Penioni Naliva said the exercise would test core brigade functions, including operational planning, coordination, resource management, intelligence, logistics, and communications.
“A brigade headquarters integrates leadership, planning, intelligence, logistics and communications to direct the brigade as a cohesive fighting force,” he said.
Colonel Naliva added the exercise provided a platform to build relationships, improve systems, and identify gaps for future development, including lessons for government agencies and regional partners.
Commander Kalouniwai described the IPC as the “cornerstone of multi-agency and whole-of-society cooperation,” guided by the theme “From strategy to action: defending Fiji’s people, borders and future”.
The conference will conclude on Friday, before Exercise Bougainville 2026 progresses to tabletop exercises and the main planning conference at Black Rock Camp in Nadi.
RFMF Commander Ro Jone Kalouniwai delivers his address during the launch of the Bougainville Exercise 2026 in Suva yesterday. Picture: KATA KOLI
