More ships needed for Fiji Navy to be present at sea – Commander Tawake

With the increasing threats in the Fiji Waters in terms of drug smuggling, trafficking, illegal fishing and other potential risks, the Commander of the Fiji Navy, Humphrey Tawake says they need more ships to be able to be present at sea.

He says currently, the Fiji Navy have four ships where two vessels patrol the maritime areas, and two others are out at sea.

Commander Tawake says despite the limitations, they are working with regional partners who provide them with gaps, but this does not replace the responsibility of large Ocean States like Fiji to have their own capabilities to be able to look after themselves.

He adds he understands that getting more ships is costly, and they have highlighted their needs to the government.

He says collaboration and working together are key to the protection of our ocean, and he is working on getting in touch with other Pacific Islands in terms of protecting the Pacific.