Arriving in Suva for Op Calypso, HMNZS Canterbury carried into the Fijian port two Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USV) – the Bluebottles Tahi and Rua.

It’s been a quick pivot for HMNZS Canterbury, which played a recent role in Exercise Talisman Sabre transporting NZ Army and RNZAF personnel, equipment, armoured vehicles and aircraft to Australia for the major multinational military exercise.

The RNZN will work with the Republic of Fiji Navy to deploy the USVs to help identify and track vessels operating suspiciously in Fiji’s exclusive economic zone – including those potentially involved in narcotics trafficking.

The autonomous vessels are capable of conducting long-endurance operations without requiring refuelling or crew. Propelled and powered by sun, wind and wave action, the Bluebottles are ideal platforms for fishery protection, border patrols, surveillance, and the collection of oceanic and meteorological data.

An RNZAF No. 42 Squadron King Air aircraft will provide identification and surveillance oversight while a Fijian Navy vessel will be available to carry out boarding and seizure tasks.

“For many years, at the request of the Fijian government, we have conducted joint fishery patrols to ensure Fiji’s natural resources and vital revenue streams aren’t being exploited through illegal fishing by other countries,” said NZDF Maritime Component Commander Commodore Shane Arndell

“Now we are confronting a criminal issue just as important but with deadly consequences,” Commodore Arndell said.

“The movement of drugs from South America through the Pacific is a very real concern and has a significant and long-lasting impact on the lives of Fijians, their families and the wider Pasifika community.

“All too often we see the harm these narcotics bring, so the opportunity to work with our friends and partners in the Fijian Navy to intercept and disrupt their importation is something we are committed to doing. What affects Fiji – directly affects us as well.”

The Bluebottles will be jointly monitored by Fijian Navy and RNZN personnel from the newly established Maritime Essential Services Centre in Suva. Outside of standard operating hours, monitoring will be conducted by a team from HMNZS Matataua operating from a control room at Devonport Naval Base in Auckland.

“Canterbury conducts these multi-faceted missions in the southwest Pacific to grow our Navy’s capabilities and maritime culture, and to strengthen the ability of our partners in this region,” said Commodore Arndell.

“Our long-standing relationships and presence in the region positions us to respond quickly to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief events and other security-related issues —but more than that, it provides us with an opportunity to share vital maritime skills and training to partners like Fiji.

“That’s a commitment we take very seriously, to help ensure we can maintain a secure and prosperous future for all Pacific nations.”