The ADF demonstrated its continued commitment to enhancing regional security in the Pacific by providing aerial maritime surveillance support in the region.

Working to support the Forum Fishing Agency’s (FFA) Operation Kuru Kuru, a C-27J Spartan and contingent of 20 ADF personnel recently returned to Australia after taking part in Operation Solania.

Kuru Kuru was held from October 17-28, with deployed ADF personnel and assets based out of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).

Augmentees also directly supported the FFA at its headquarters in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

Australia and FSM have a longstanding partnership in maritime security which dates back to 1990.

Earlier this year the partnership reached an exciting milestone when the first of two Guardian-class patrol boats, FSS Tosiwo Nakayama, was handed over to FSM as part of the Pacific Maritime Security Program.

Named after Micronesia’s first President, Tosiwo Nakayama was deployed for the first time during this iteration of Kuru Kuru and its crew worked collaboratively with the C-27J Spartan to enhance border security and protect regional fisheries.

Commanding Officer Tosiwo Nakayama Lieutenant Commander Paulino Yangitesmal said he was grateful for the support provided to his country by the Australian Government and for the opportunity to work alongside the ADF.

“The surveillance information the C-27J Spartan provides us is critical in ensuring the success of this operation,” Lieutenant Commander Yangitesmal said.

“It goes a long way to assist in detecting and deterring illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing activity in our region.

“In addition to the gifting of the patrol boat, the Australian Government has provided fuel and food for the operation.

“For that we thank the Australian Government, particularly the ADF for their support, and we look forward to strengthening our partnership in years to come.”

Detachment Commander for 35 Squadron contingent, Flight Lieutenant Peter Wuttke, said the deployment to Micronesia demonstrated Australia’s ongoing commitment to maintaining regional security alongside its Pacific partners. 

“The aerial surveillance we conduct on each sortie alongside local authorities supports the Pacific Islands FFA in its coordinated fisheries monitoring, control and surveillance operations,” Flight Lieutenant Wuttke said.

“Any vessels that are identified, the information is passed on to the agency and local authorities, enabling them to act to ensure those vessels are compliant.”

Whilst the isolation of operating out of Pohnpei presented some unique challenges for equipment and support services, Flight Lieutenant Wuttke said he and the entire detachment felt warmly welcomed by locals from the moment they touched down.

“From the moment we landed and everyday throughout our deployment, the friendliness and hospitality shown towards us from the community has been nothing short of amazing,” Flight Lieutenant Wuttke said.

Operation Solania is the ADF’s contribution to maritime surveillance within the Pacific region and supports the FFA’s operations Rai Balang, Tui Moana, Island Chief, and Kuru Kuru.

For further imagery visit the Defence Image Gallery.

Towiso Nakayama departs Pohnpei during Operation Solania.