AUSTRALIA GIFTS OUTBOARD MOTORS TO RSIPF

Australia is pleased to deliver 50 new outboard motors to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Maritime Division in a contactless handover at Aola Base in Honiara on 3 February 2022.

The new 40 and 60 horsepower outboard motors will replace aging models in the RSIPF’s small boat fleet. This will boost the RSIPF’s remote policing and maritime security capability, especially in the provinces.    

Acting Australian High Commissioner Sally-Anne Vincent said “Australia and Solomon Islands share many maritime security challenges. Both our countries are surrounded by vast oceans where mobility is crucial to respond effectively to the maritime security challenges our region faces.”

“These motors are an example of Australia’s strong commitment to maritime security cooperation with Solomon Islands as a neighbour, partner and member of the Pacific Family,” said Ms Vincent.

Underscoring the value of the new motors, RSIPF Commissioner Mostyn Mangau said “small boat capability is very important for the RSIPF. With more than 900 islands in the Solomon Islands archipelago, reliable outboard motors ensure the RSIPF can travel safely to do their job.”

This boost for RSIPF maritime capability comes on the back of Australia providing RSIPV Taro in 2021. The motors were gifted under the Australia-Solomon Islands Defence Cooperation Program. The Program has a strong focus on maritime security and provides small boat maintenance, training, maritime surveillance support and capability development to the RSIPF Maritime Division.

//ENDS