The Federated States of Micronesia has taken ownership of its second Guardian-class Patrol Boat at a handover ceremony today in Perth, Western Australia.
Vice President of the Federated States of Micronesia, the Hon Aren B. Palik, accepted the patrol boat acknowledging the country's longstanding maritime cooperation and commitment to regional maritime security.
The patrol boat, designed and built by Austal in Australia, will continue the important work of the Australian-built Pacific-class Patrol Boat FSS Palikir, which was decommissioned this year after 33 years of service to the Federated States of Micronesia and Pacific communities.
With capacity to sail faster, for longer distances and carry more humanitarian and disaster relief supplies, the vessel will support the Federated States of Micronesia to protect its territorial waters and enhance its maritime security and surveillance capability alongside its sister vessel FSS Tosiwo Nakayama.
The Pacific Maritime Security Program delivers sovereign capability, infrastructure, sustainment, training and coordination to our Pacific partners.
Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles MP:
"Australia has a longstanding commitment to supporting our Pacific partners through the Pacific Maritime Security Program.
"I am proud to see this vessel carry forward our partnership with the Federated States of Micronesia, as we work together in support of a stable, prosperous, and secure region."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Industry, the Hon Pat Conroy MP:
"Australia is a proud partner of Federated States of Micronesia and remains committed to enhancing maritime surveillance capabilities across the Pacific.
"The Guardian-class Patrol Boats not only offer increased capability to our Pacific partners but also support Australian defence industry and Australian jobs through their construction."
