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The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has played a pivotal role in coordinated maritime surveillance efforts around Tonga and Fiji, aimed at tackling the growing threat of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
As part of Operation Solania, the ADF supported members of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) by monitoring suspected illegal fishing vessels within the countries’ exclusive economic zones (EEZs). This mission coincided with Operation Tui Moana, a broader initiative led by the FFA to strengthen regional efforts in safeguarding vital marine resources.
A C-27J Spartan aircraft and aircrew from No. 35 Squadron were deployed to conduct extensive aerial surveillance patrols, tasked with detecting and deterring illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing threats in the region.
Vice Admiral Justin Jones, Chief of Joint Operations, highlighted Australia’s ongoing commitment to regional maritime security through Operation Solania.
“Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing poses a direct threat to the security of Australia and its neighbours, undermining both our resources and borders, and serving as a pathway for transnational crime,” VADM Jones said.
“By working closely with the FFA, our Pacific partners, and the members of the Pacific Quadrilateral Defence Coordination Group – the United States, New Zealand, and France – the ADF supports a sustainable and secure future for the region.”
The ADF’s aircrews covered approximately 97,950 square kilometres of Tonga and Fiji’s EEZs during the deployment, identifying 24 vessels of interest and documenting suspicious maritime activities. This information was passed to the FFA for further action.
Squadron Leader James Champness, Detachment Commander for the operation, praised his crew’s efforts.
“I’m proud of the dedication and professionalism shown by our team throughout the deployment. Our patrols provided critical data to help safeguard marine resources in Tonga and Fiji,” SQNLDR Champness said.
Australia’s commitment to combating IUU fishing in the Pacific reflects its broader goal of working alongside regional partners to protect territorial sovereignty and economic development against transnational crime and illegal exploitation of natural resources.
