The Tonga Royal Navy has commissioned the newest landing craft VOEA Late in a ceremony held at the Masefield Naval Base.
The commissioning of VOEA Late is the latest demonstration of the enduring strength of the Australia and Tonga bilateral relationship and follows the recent signing of a Statement of Intent announcing a shared commitment to elevate ties between the two nations.
The vessel was provided under the Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP), Australia’s 30-year commitment to increase national and regional maritime security throughout the Pacific. The program builds on the three decades of success in the original Pacific Patrol Boat Program.
The handover ceremony of the landing craft was held in August this year.
“Australia is proud to partner with Tonga on maritime security and disaster preparedness so we can further the close relationship between our defence forces. Our Pacific Maritime Security Program is a 30-year commitment to invest in maritime security partnerships throughout the Pacific and reinforce Australia’s role as the security partner of choice for our Pacific neighbours,” Assistant Minister for Defense, Peter Khalil , said.
Australia will continue to support the Tongan Royal Navy via a through-life maintenance and sustainment package, along with training for crew members to ensure the vessel’s operational readiness.