Fiji to deploy $4m advanced technology for maritime surveillance

The Republic of Fiji Navy has acquired two advanced Bluebottle Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USV) from New Zealand to combat transnational crime within its maritime zones.

With support from the New Zealand Defence Force, the vessels are set to be deployed by Fijian Navy personnel for three months to identify and track vessels potentially involved in drug trafficking within the Fiji Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Powered by solar, wind or wave motion, these autonomous machines can operate at sea for a significant extended amount of time without refuelling or crew. Each vessel reportedly costs around NZ$1.5 million (FJ$2m) to procure.

At the Maritime Essentials Service Centre (MESC) in Lami yesterday, which is home to the Republic of Fiji Navy Headquarters, Defence Minister Pio Tikoduadua spoke on the need for technology like USVs in tackling the rising threat of organised crime.

"We have a serious problem with drugs coming into Fiji, destined for New Zealand and Australia," he said.

"New Zealand has got this capability and we know it's a useful capability that we're keen to adapt to Fiji's security needs."

The arrival of the Bluebottle USVs marks the first time a major partner has delivered an uncrewed or unmanned vessel to Fiji.

Mr Tikoduadua said this signalled the growing partnership, particularly in defence cooperation, between Fiji and New Zealand.

"When I look at our partnership, I am incredibly encouraged because even as the world around us changes, even as we need to continue to adapt our approaches to ensure we are staying one step ahead of the myriad of threats our countries face," he said.

"New Zealand and Fiji will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder to work closely with one another in our Pacific corner of our ever-changing world."

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