The Royal New Zealand Navy’s (RNZN) multi-role vessel, HMNZS Canterbury, has sailed into Suva, carrying uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) – the Bluebottles Tahi and Rua, as part of Operation Calypso, a joint maritime security effort with the Republic of Fiji Navy.
As disclosed, the RNZN will work with Republic of Fiji Navy personnel deploying and monitoring the Bluebottles to help identify and track vessels operating suspiciously in Fiji’s exclusive economic zone – including those potentially involved in narcotics trafficking.
It is understood that a Royal New Zealand Air Force 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.
Shane Arndell, the New Zealand Defence Force’s Maritime Component Commander, stated: “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. Now we are confronting a criminal issue just as important but with deadly consequences.”
“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.”
To note, the autonomous vessels can reportedly conduct long-endurance operations without requiring refuelling or crew. According to the RNZN, the Bluebottles, which are propelled and powered by sun, wind, and wave action, can be used for fishery protection, border patrols, surveillance, and the collection of oceanic and meteorological data.