Chief of the Defence Force Admiral David Johnston AC RAN will travel to Fiji and Vanuatu from 26 to 29 July.
The visit marks the first international trip for Admiral Johnston as Chief of the Defence Force, emphasising the importance that Defence places on its relationships with Pacific partners.
"I am proud to be visiting two of our key Pacific partners for my first overseas visit as Chief of the Defence Force," Admiral Johnston said.
"I look forward to engaging with leaders in Fiji and Vanuatu to discuss our strong bilateral relationships and deepen our cooperation."
In Fiji, Admiral Johnston will formally hand over 14 Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles purchased by the Government of Fiji, which were delivered by HMAS Choules in June.
"Australian Bushmasters provide world-class protection and adaptability. They will support the development of Fiji's peacekeeping capabilities, and demonstrate our commitment to closer ties under the enhanced Vuvale partnership," Admiral Johnston said.
While in Vanuatu, Admiral Johnston will attend the commissioning ceremony of RVS Sokomanu, Vanuatu's new landing craft. The delivery of this vessel reinforces Australia's commitment to partnering with Vanuatu to enhance its sovereign humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capability.
"Australia and Vanuatu's bilateral relationship is founded on our shared values and vision for a secure and prosperous Blue Pacific," Admiral Johnston said.
"We recognise the impact of natural disasters across the Pacific and are committed to working with Pacific partners to respond when disasters occur, build disaster resilience and support communities to recover.
"Australia continues to work with Pacific partners to maintain a peaceful, stable and prosperous region."
