A new patrol boat to be named RSIPV Gizo.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Hon. Manasseh Sogavare accompanied by the Minister of Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. Veke received a new Guardian Class Pacific Patrol Boat during a ceremony in Perth, Western Australia on Friday 8 November 2019.
The RSIPF was represented by the Deputy Commissioner (DC) for National Security and Operational Support, Mostyn Mangau.
“The new police patrol boat is a Guardian class Pacific Patrol Boat which is bigger than our existing patrol boat,” explained DC Mangau.
“The new Guardian Class Pacific Patrol Boat has a length of 39.5 metres, and a complement of 23 crew members. It is powered by two 5,400hp diesel engines, the vessel can travel 3,000 nautical miles at minimal speed. This new boat is purposely to conduct maritime surveillance and enforcement operations like fighting illegal fishing, search and rescue for distress boats, VIP escorts and other border operations,” said DC Mangau.
“On behalf of the RSIPF, I would like to thank the government and people of Australia for the gift of the new patrol boat. I would also like to thank the Australian Defence Program and Australian High Commission to Solomon Islands for making possible arrangements for the official handing over ceremony held in Perth, Western Australia last week.”
RSIPF Maritime officers, who are currently being trained on board the RSIPV Gizo in Perth, will sail the patrol boat to Solomon Islands and expected to arrive in Honiara by the middle of next month.
A formal welcome ceremony is being planned for the arrival of the new patrol boat to its new home, the Aola Patrol Base in Honiara.
Source: RSIPF Media Unit
Psalm 5:11"Dear Lord, I Thank You for being the keeper of those who sail at sea. I ask that You grant them peace as they put their trust in You. I pray that sailors take refuge in You and also because You defend them. Father let the praises of each morning fill their hearts because of Your goodness. Spread Your protection over them and the ships that they sail. Let them rejoice in Your divine love and protection, this we ask, Amen.
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
