The Fiji Navy will receive the first of two Guardian Patrol Boats next year to enhance border security and surveillance of our Exclusive Economic Zone.

Navy Chief, Captain Humphrey Tawake says the additions to their fleet will make a notable impact on their operations and will for the first time be outfitted to allow women naval officers on board.

“It provides us an enhanced capability, it has more endurance, and it has got accommodation that we could fit females in that is an added bonus.”

And while the ink is still wet on the new deal, one of the two patrol boats is earmarked to arrive next year with the other in 2022.

The assistance provided by Australia is part of a regional program with an investment of close to $4 billion over the next 30 years.