The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Naval Division dive team received a significant boost in diving equipment worth about FJ$200,000 from the Government of the United States of America.

The distribution of equipment on Tuesday is part of the train-and-equip $1.7m agreement between the Fiji Navy and the US Government.

Donated equipment include scuba and surface-supplied-air dive systems expected to enhance the Fijian Navy’s capabilities to conduct a range of operations, including marine salvage and recovery of submerged ordinance.

In addition to the donation, two Navy personnel; Able Seaman Vitukawalu Damudamu and Able Seaman Ligani Bulidreketi would depart on October 19 for Panama City, Florida, where they are to receive dive training alongside US sailors and other international students.

The training is part of a multi-year obligation to send navy personnel to dive training every year.

Defence Attaché Commander Victor Lange said the event was more than just a handover because it was an opportunity to strengthen security with their Pacific partners and promote a rules-based order in large ocean states such as Fiji and other countries.

The new equipment and training received by the Fijian Navy dive team would help solidify Fiji’s placing as the regional centre of excellence and strengthen ties with neighbouring countries.

Funding was also given for the maintenance of the equipment.

Navy Commander, Commodore Humphrey Tawake, acknowledged the US Government for the assistance and thanked them for the opportunity to send members of the dive team for training. There are about 25 members in the Fijian Navy Dive Team.

Edited by Jonathan Bryce

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