Fiji: Officials expect major boost to military capabilities expected over coming years from Veitacini Treaty
Around 3 September, Fiji officials announced AUD$180 million of new police spending to target transnational crime and dismantle drug networks, including the establishment of a National Joint Enforcement Centre. The Centre will coordinate intelligence from Police, Customs, Immigration, the Counter Narcotics Bureau, the RFMF, and other agencies, as well as specialist support from the Australian Federal Police covering intelligence, digital forensics, surveillance, financial crime, and counter-narcotics expertise. Over the same reporting period, Fiji Parliamentarians debated adoption of the Veitacini Treaty with Australia, with the Defence Minister stating it will provide a significant increase in military capability for the RFMF across aviation, maritime security, defence infrastructure, disaster response, veterans' affairs, and cybersecurity. Specific support includes establishing an aviation capability for disaster response, search and rescue, maritime surveillance, and connecting with remote communities; improved maritime surveillance with uncrewed air systems, uncrewed vessels, conventional air surveillance, and intelligence sharing; and the establishment of maritime operating bases in the North, Rotuma, Lau, and the West. Two further concerns with the Treaty were addressed by the Minister and Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister's Office. Firstly, Australian servicemembers would not be immune from prosecution in Fiji. Secondly, the Treaty does not require Fiji to come to the aid of Australia should Australia become involved in armed conflict.
Assessment: The recent security developments indicate Fiji expects the Veitacini Treaty to provide a major boost to the country's defence capabilities, while retaining sovereignty over diplomatic and conflict decision-making. The Fiji Navy has been pursuing a concept of forward operating bases since at least July 2024, with some introduction into service of new facilities over the last 12 months. New naval capabilities under the Veitacini Treaty are therefore more likely to become operational sooner than aviation capabilities. Fiji has not had an aviation element since 1997 and would therefore require a completely new establishment of infrastructure, maintenance, and personnel.
Sources: Riya Mala, “$284m investment to target drug networks.” FBC News, 3 September 2026; Mosese Raqio, “Veitacini Treary to boost Fiji's defence.”, FBC News, 3 September 2026; Litia Cava, “Fiji's defence obligations under treaty questioned.” FBC News, 4 September 2026; Litia Cava, “Treaty puts Fiji's war role under scrutiny.” FBC News, 5 September 2026.
