Fiji’s guardian-class naval boat RFNS Timo recently returned from its first dedicated maritime patrol assignment.
During the patrol, the Fiji Navy ship covered the southwestern and southeastern waters of Fiji, where it tested the ship’s capabilities, including conducting weapon firing to ensure the crew remains current in their skills.
“Additionally, it provided an opportunity to visit islands in the group and engage with the community as we prepare for the upcoming yachting season,” the RFN said in its latest social media update.
It is understood RFNS Timo will now undergo minor maintenance work and take some well deserved rest before embarking on further operational deployments in the coming weeks.
In February, Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Minister for Defence, Professor Biman Prasad commissioned the guardian-class patrol boat at the RFNS Stanley Brown Naval Base in Walu Bay, Suva.
Prof Prasad said the gifting of the RFNS Timo was testament to the enhanced relationship between Fiji and Australia, as the state-of-the-art vessel would complement and strengthen the capability of the Fiji Navy Fleet in safeguarding Fiji’s waters, protecting the natural resources and upholding regional security.
The commissioning also marked a milestone in Fiji’s commitment to the enhancement of its maritime capabilities and regional cooperation.
RFNS Timo came into service after the decommissioning of RFNS Puamau which struck Fulaga Reef in Lau waters in June 2024.
The ship is the third Guardian–class Patrol Boat delivered to Fiji, and the 22nd vessel delivered by Australia under the Pacific Maritime Security Program – Australia’s 30–year commitment to uninterrupted engagement with our Pacific partners in support of a stable, prosperous and secure region.
The other two gifted patrol boats are RFNS Savenaca and the ill-fated RFNS Puamau.
Meanwhile, the RFN noted that the past two weeks had been a busy time.
Activities included the work ups for RFNS Savenaca and RFNS Volasiga, the deployment of RFNS Timo and the Small Boat Squadron for surveillance operations.
