South Pacific Insights

Issue 54 | 12 – 25 August 2026

Bottom Line • Assessments • Resilience • Operations • Training • Dates

Bottom Line

Detailed Assessments

Common Operating Picture – In Brief

Critical Infrastructure Resilience

	UPDATEPNG As of 21 November 2025, medicine shortages have been reported across several provinces, including Morobe and Enga. Between January and April 2026, 18 deaths from preventable diseases were attributed to the medicine shortage in Kokoda. Around 3 August, health services were reduced to essential only in Simbu due to drought. Over 12–17 August, the Australian and PNG Defence Forces delivered medicines to West Sepik and Madang, Morobe, and the Highlands provinces. Around 7 January, the PM announced a "personal intervention" into the issue, blaming mismanagement of the distribution system and theft between local medical stores and clinics, with the government investigating a new contract system as of late March. Around 13 April, a Morobe district began its own monthly supply distribution to rural areas. On 22 June, construction began on an Australian-funded medicine storage and distribution warehouse in Lae — however, Deputy PM Rosso noted that infrastructure alone would not improve service delivery, and that the facility requires strong management and operational funding support. PNG is currently facing several disease outbreaks including polio and measles, with dengue spikes during rainy periods.
	UPDATEPNG On 16 August, Water PNG announced its repair programme on a key pipeline feeding water to Port Moresby concluded successfully. A scheduled shutdown occurred over Friday 14 August to Sunday 16 August, with rationing occurring over four zones on eight-hour rotations. Around 6 August, landowners who had been blockading the site received a court order allowing Water PNG to proceed with repairs. The shutdown was required for complex repairs to a severe pipeline rupture that occurred in May. However, authorities continue to advise residents of water shortages due to low river levels likely to last to April 2027.
	PNG Blackouts and load shedding have been occurring across Port Moresby and Central Province due to low hydropower generation. State-owned PNG Power Limited is producing only 25% of required power, with reliance on private sector producers NiuPower and Dirio to help cover shortfalls. The Minister for Trade and Investment is seeking a supplementary budget for emergency dry season energy support, likely to include diesel generation and establishing solar infrastructure. Previously, on 26 June, PNG Power Limited notified Port Moresby residents that load shedding would begin and could last ten months due to reduced water levels at Sirinumu Dam affecting hydropower generation and the city's water supply.
	Solomon Islands In a July Rainfall Watch, forecasters are expecting Munda, Honiara, Henderson, Taro, Auki, Kirakira, Tingoa, and Lata to face the most severe drought conditions over August to October due to El Niño. Around 3 July, Solomon Water informed customers in Honiara, Auki, Noro, and Tulagi to start conserving water to avoid rationing. On 22 June, media reporting noted that little rainfall in Gizo over the previous month had led to rain catchments running dry, forcing residents to rely on a system of wells.
	Vanuatu On 20 July, Vanuatu declared a meteorological drought for Torba Province, and parts of Sanma, Penama, and Malampa Provinces in northern Vanuatu. Below-average rainfall has occurred for the previous three months. Meteorological drought is the first stage and an early warning indicator for more significant drought impacts on the environment (hydrological and agricultural) if reduced rainfall continues. Authorities forecast conditions are likely to strengthen during September–November, peak from November–January 2027, and then gradually weaken and return to neutral conditions around March–May 2027.
	UPDATEFiji Around 11 August, the Water Authority of Fiji confirmed they have activated dry-weather contingencies across all three regions, with most water sources not producing enough for treatment plants to operate at normal levels; therefore extra pumping, new pump stations, and carting is being used to manage water flows. Three government ships have been placed on standby for carting operations, and the Department of Energy has warned of the risk of hydroelectric power shortages (60% of Fiji's power generation is derived from hydropower). Further water stress is expected to continue through to March 2027, with October to December predicted as the driest period and expected to also impact the agriculture industry.
	Tonga Beginning 31 July, Tonga's National Disaster Risk Management Office and HM Armed Forces distributed water, conducted rapid water assessments, and worked to restore Ha'afeva Health Centre's water supply in response to water shortages in the Lulunga island group. NDRMO is also carrying out pre-emptive drinking water continuity operations in Niuatoputapu with plans to expand to the Niuafo'ou, Vava'u, and 'Eua island groups. These operations involve distributing water from reservoirs to homes and establishing desalination plants.
	NEWTonga Load shedding and outages have continued across Tongatapu following the failure of a generator on 15 August. On 18 August, Tonga Power Limited stated that the outages would continue to 1 September while repairs are conducted and two new generators are installed. Outages are being rotated by area to avoid an island-wide blackout, with a schedule issued with the 18 August statement and updated daily by TPL through social media.
	NEWSamoa On 17 August, the Samoa Meteorological Service officially declared El Niño in Samoa. Over 12–17 August, Samoan agencies increased the volume of El Niño advisories, including an elevated risk of fires due to dry vegetation and high winds. On 17 August, the Samoa Meteorological Service forecast a high chance of below-normal rainfall, peaking from October–December.
	UPDATESamoa A medicine shortage has been reported in Samoa since November 2025, particularly affecting paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin, and the diabetes drug metformin. On 18 August 2026, Samoa's primary public medical facility, Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital, was forced to ration oxygen and had run out of paper used for cardiotocograph machines. The issues caused cancellation of surgeries and difficulty for neonatal nurses to record heart monitor readings. On 19 August, oxygen was resupplied from American Samoa via an emergency sailing of the Samoa Police patrol vessel. CT scanners, MRI machines, and oxygen systems have also been reported as faulty and lacking technicians to operate. Around 20 July, the Health Minister noted that while 2020–2025 accounts had been settled, the 2026/2027 budget was not sufficient to replenish necessary supplies, with the aim to order on a six-month supply cycle. On 17 July, shortages also began to be reported at at least two rural hospitals in Poutasi and Sa'anapu District. Medicines are available at private pharmacies, causing additional financial strain. The Minister attributed the delay to availability of Pacific shipping and the requirement for requests to be reviewed by the Government Tenders Board.
	UPDATESamoa Unplanned power outages have occurred in multiple areas since November 2024, including Apia and Faleolo International Airport on multiple occasions in 2026. Between 1–25 August, there have been 9 unexpected outages, 4 instances of emergency maintenance, and 3 scheduled maintenance events. This does not include an island-wide unplanned outage on Upolu over 31 July–1 August resulting in personal and commercial damage and extended loss of some hospital services. The event was attributed to a faulty cable disrupting all generators at the Fiaga Power Station and unbalancing the grid. There have been 5 further outages on Upolu since 1 August. Samoa is currently using 11 rented generators (with 6 having arrived around 1 January), with overhaul of the main generators beginning in May. On 18 August, an Asian Development Bank delegation visited Samoa to discuss three long-term projects.
	Regional Fuel Situation While the July drop in fuel prices across most Pacific states signals a change in the month-on-month trend, prices remain above pre-US–Iran levels and overall inflation remains elevated. For example, on 23 August, it was reported that consumer prices had increased in Samoa for July by 19% over the last 12 months. Increased prices on goods, transport, and utilities are likely to maintain pressure on households for the rest of 2026, affecting outer islands more acutely than capital areas, and will be compounded by the effects of El Niño. Outer islands in the Cook Islands and Fiji, and remote areas of PNG have suffered fuel shortages, but at a national level supply remains stable.

Note: Colours may not display correctly in Gmail dark mode. Use light mode for accurate severity indicators.

Operations

1. On 1 July, an American pilot was killed by West Papua's West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) militants after landing a small aircraft at a remote airstrip in Sobaham District, Yahukimo Regency, Highland Papua Province. The TPNPB has previously warned foreign nationals against operating aircraft in the region in support of Indonesian military activities and claimed responsibility for the attack. Indonesian military personnel subsequently recovered the body.
2. On 2 July, Tuvalu and Australia launched Operation Render Safe 2026, a technical reconnaissance mission in Nanumea Lagoon to identify unexploded World War Two ordnance. Two Royal Solomon Islands Police Force EOD officers are also part of the team. The operation identified 48 American 500-pound bombs, three 100-pound bombs, 42 crates of mostly .50 calibre ammunition, and other wartime debris. No immediate threat to residents was found.
3. Around 2 July, 13 Fiji RFMF personnel were interviewed as part of a military investigation into the death of Vakarisi, a civilian taken into military custody after an attempted robbery at an RFMF camp.
4. Around 5 July, public transport operators along the Sepik Highway in PNG suspended services covering Maprik and Wosera districts, citing escalating armed hold-ups.
5. Around 5 July, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, China Police Liaison Team, and New Zealand Police conducted a youth-focused community outreach programme at the Tina community in Central Guadalcanal, targeting drug prevention awareness and domestic violence education.
6. Around 5 July, Fiji Police Force, in partnership with the newly established Mamanuca Marine Protection Rescue Initiative, concluded a four-day joint maritime enforcement operation across the Mamanuca waters, targeting maritime security, public safety, and protection of the marine environment.
7. Around 8 July, it was announced that the murder rate in Enga Province, PNG, dropped from approximately 70 cases per month to eight in the previous month. The decline was attributed to the leadership of Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Steven Harris.
8. Around 8 July, 38 prisoners escaped from the Kerevat Correctional Services prison in East New Britain, PNG. At least three escapees were recaptured, with 35 remaining at large as investigations and search operations continued.
9. Around 8 July, PNG Angoram Police Station in East Sepik Province remained closed indefinitely following a violent attack on 30 June by members of the Kanda tribe on officers, their families, and the station barracks.
10. From 9 July, Fiji Navy launched Operation Yadra Matua, a large-scale maritime security mission deploying more than 80 personnel across Fiji's maritime domain. The operation involves multiple Navy vessels, two aircraft, and support from the Intelligence Fusion Cell at the Vuvale Maritime Essential Services Centre, aimed at strengthening surveillance and response capabilities across Fiji waters.
11. On 12 July, three PNG National Court remandees were killed and five were seriously injured following a prison breakout at Baisu Correctional Institution in Western Highlands. Two escapees remained at large as of reporting.
12. Around 15 July, Solomon Islands Police reported no arrests had been made following a series of violent incidents in the Belaha area of Central Guadalcanal, including home invasions, assaults, and the burning of a dump truck by masked criminals armed with knives believed to be associated with nearby illegal settlements. During one home invasion the offenders demanded cash and mobile phones. Police have increased their presence in the area.
13. On 16 July, Australia deployed the hydrographic survey ship HMAS Leeuwin to PNG for a five-week mission alongside the PNGDF to update maritime charts to improve the safety of shipping and support economic activity in PNG's waters.
14. On 18 July, PNG authorities launched a search and rescue operation for five East New Britain Provincial Health Authority staff and family members reported missing at sea. A separate maritime incident in the Tigak Group of Islands resulted in 12 deaths, with four additional bodies recovered on 23 July.
15. On 21 July, militants from the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) claimed responsibility for killing three indigenous Papuans in Yahukimo, alleging the victims had been supplying intelligence to Indonesian security forces.
16. On 23 July, 15 Fiji Police Force officers deployed as part of the AFP Pacific Policing Initiative Pacific Police Support Group to the Pinkenba regional training hub in Australia, with the intent for onward deployment to Palau to assist with security operations during the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting occurring over 30 August–4 September 2026.
17. Around 24 July, Samoa Police conducted a drug raid on a property in Togafuafua, arresting more than 20 people and seizing methamphetamine. Armed officers pursued suspects who attempted to flee the scene.
18. Around 25 July, Fiji Police Force and the Mamanuca Marine Protection and Rescue Initiative joint taskforce concluded a three-day maritime enforcement operation and community outreach programme at Solevu Village.
19. On 26 July, Tuvalu Police Force arrested the crew of a Chinese tuna longliner after maritime trackers identified suspicious activity on 9 July. Officers were transported on and boarded via Sea Shepherd International's vessel Allankay and found the crew discarding illegally caught shark fins overboard while stockpiling tuna and maintaining essentially no records.
20. Around 22 July, crew from HMAS Yarra visited the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Hells Point EOD facility, learning how the RSIPF EOD unit identifies and disposes of UXO before conducting community engagement activities.
21. On 23 July, seven Fiji Police Force officers departed for United Nations pre-deployment training and Assessment Mission Selection in Australia, with five selected for the training and two serving in the pre-deployment training team.
22. Over 23–30 July, the Vanuatu Police Force conducted Operation India-Alpha to manage the country's 46th Independence Anniversary celebrations held on 30 July. Officers were deployed across all official celebration venues, roads, beaches, entertainment centres, bars, and nightclubs throughout the country in a nationwide public safety operation.
23. On 27 July, the United States Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane arrived in Honiara, Solomon Islands, as part of Operation Blue Pacific, a multi-mission regional security patrol across the Pacific. The Harriet Lane had previously conducted Shiprider operations in Fiji during June 2026.
24. On 1 August, Fiji Police Force and Republic of Fiji Military Forces produced three suspects in court following drug raids during the preceding week. The first raid on 23 July at Lautoka resulted in the seizure of cocaine (45.2g) and AUD$2,022 in cash. Two further raids were subsequently conducted.
25. On 1 August, Royal Solomon Islands Police Force officers uprooted more than 300 marijuana plants in the Ngalimera community in North Guadalcanal. No arrests were made, as the suspect fled when police arrived.
26. On 1 August, PNG Police launched an operation in Enga Province to capture 16 remand prisoners who escaped from Wabag Police Station lock-up on 29 July.
27. On 2 August, Fiji Corrections Service confirmed that four officers were suspended pending an investigation following an incident captured on CCTV and circulated online showing an alleged assault at the Lautoka Remand Centre.
28. Around 2 August, the European Union Ambassador to the Pacific stated that the EU continues to assess security risks linked to Vanuatu's citizenship-by-investment scheme and remains engaged with the Vanuatu Government on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing measures.
29. Over 3–14 August, the Forum Fisheries Agency identified 16 vessels of interest and apprehended four vessels during Operation Island Chief. Participants were Australia, FSM, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Naoero, New Zealand, Palau, PNG, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu, France, and the US, with 11 EEZs being surveilled.
30. On 3 August, Fiji Police Force and RFMF Joint Task Force officers conducted a raid at a suspect's home in Lautoka, deploying a K9 unit to locate suspected methamphetamine along with drug-smoking equipment. They made one arrest.
31. On 4 August, Fiji Police Northern Division operations seized close to 8,000 marijuana plants from the Bilobiloca farming area in the Northern Division, following a drone-confirmed intelligence operation. A further 200+ plants were subsequently uprooted from a farm in Nasea, Tukavesi. On 8 August, a further 2,000 marijuana plants were seized from farms in the Vatuyalewa mountain range and in Nasea, Tukavesi, in the Northern Division.
32. On 4 August, Indonesian security forces launched a joint operation to pursue West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) fighters in Papua's Highland Province following the killing of five road construction workers. The TPNPB claimed responsibility, alleging the workers were Indonesian intelligence agents.
33. On 4 August, the Fiji Police Force deployed 10 officers to the UN Mission in South Sudan.
34. Around 4 August, two Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Drone Support Unit officers were selected for deployment with the Pacific Police Support Group to assist with security operations for the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau, from 30 August–4 September 2026.
35. Around 4 August, the Royal PNG Constabulary began early preparations for the 2027 National General Elections, with Police Headquarters working with provincial commands to identify operational requirements including vehicles, equipment, and personnel deployments.
36. On 5 August, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Department conducted a controlled demolition of UXO at Hells Point in the Alligator Creek area.
37. From 7 August, a series of arson attacks were reported overnight in Mont-Dore, New Caledonia, in which garbage cans and garden waste were set ablaze and a bus was completely destroyed at the Boulari cultural and sports centre. Local politicians linked the incidents to youth crime.
38. On 10 August, the Fiji Police and military Joint Task Force conducted two raids in Lautoka, arresting four people over alleged unlawful possession of substances believed to be methamphetamine. A further four people were arrested at Naweni on 11 August at a snap vehicle checkpoint for suspected marijuana.
39. On 10 August, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force farewelled four members of the Community Policing Liaison Team who had been embedded across various RSIPF departments for the preceding six months.
40. On 10 August, the newly appointed Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police Executive Director, Aaron Holloway — a senior New Zealand Police leader with more than 23 years of service — visited Fiji Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu as the Executive Director's first regional engagement.
41. On 12 August, Tuvalu's Police Force deployed four officers to join the United Nations peacekeeping mission in South Sudan.
42. On 15 August, the Tonga armed forces maritime element conducted an overnight emergency mission to transport a nine-member medical team from Vaiola Hospital in Tongatapu to 'Eua.
43. From 15 August, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Department conducted disposal operations in Western and Choiseul Provinces.
44. Around 15 August, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the China Police Liaison Team delivered two 5,000-litre water tanks donated by the Chinese Embassy to the Burns Creek community in Honiara.
45. On 16 August, the Royal PNG Constabulary launched its Highlands Western Strategic Plan for the National General Elections of 2027 (NATEL 2027), covering operations in the third and fourth quarters of 2026 and the first and second quarters of 2027. The plan's three objectives are the Prevention of Democratic Subversion, Protection of Critical Economic Corridors, and Containment of Small Arms and Light Weapons Proliferation.
46. Around 17 August, the crew of US Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Gerczak visited Suva to conduct bilateral maritime law enforcement operations alongside the Fiji Navy.
47. Around 17 August, the PNG Defence Force assisted the Australian Defence Force in delivering one million azithromycin tablets to West Sepik Province for the treatment of yaws, a tropical bacterial skin disease predominantly affecting children. The delivery supported a targeted public health programme in one of PNG's most remote provinces.

Training and Capability Development

48. On 1 July, the Chinese Embassy in Fiji donated AUD$160,000 to the RFMF to support the construction of a new building for the RFMF Wives Committee at Queen Elizabeth Barracks.
49. Over 1–4 July, the United States Army's 25th Infantry Division Band from Hawaii visited Fiji for a series of joint performances and engagements with the RFMF Band.
50. On 1 July, Samoa and New Zealand launched the Samoa–New Zealand Policing Programme, a four-year initiative bringing five New Zealand Police advisers to Samoa to strengthen policing capabilities and improve community safety. The advisers will operate in an advisory capacity and will not be involved in investigations or operations.
51. On 2 July, 50 new officers of Recruit Course 54 graduated from the Tonga Police College.
52. Around 4 July, 60 officers from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and Correctional Services Solomon Islands completed specialist tactical communication training delivered by the Australian Federal Police at the Pinkenba Training Centre and Development Hub in Brisbane. The training focused on safely managing conflict and de-escalating incidents.
53. On 6 July, China test-launched a nuclear-capable ballistic missile into the South Pacific, with the missile splashing down approximately 1,900km north-west of Samoa, near the boundary of Tuvalu's exclusive economic zone. China provided advance warning hours before the test, in contrast to a 2024 test in which no prior notification was given.
54. Around 5 July, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Drone Support Unit received a DJI Avata 2 First Person View drone and a high-performance laptop computer through the RSIPF–AFP Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP), to enhance aerial intelligence for frontline policing, emergency response, and search and rescue operations.
55. Around 5 July, Royal Solomon Islands Police Force officers from the Criminal Investigation Department and frontline units completed an anti-narcotics and Crime Scene Investigation training package delivered by the China Police Liaison Team.
56. On 6 July, Fiji Police Force launched a month-long Superintendent's Qualifying Course at the Fiji Police Academy, aimed at strengthening leadership and management skills among senior officers. The programme is delivered by the Academy's School of Leadership in partnership with the Pacific Faculty of Policing, New Zealand Police, and the Australian Federal Police.
57. On 7 July, Mr James Aitorea was sworn in as the acting Commissioner of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, following the suspension of Commissioner Ian Vaevaso. Mr Aitorea was formerly a sergeant in the RSIPF who resigned from the force several years previously.
58. On 7 July, Fiji Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu announced plans to establish a Peacekeeping Training Centre as an extension of the Fiji Police Academy to strengthen pre-deployment preparation for police officers.
59. Around 8 July, PNG Defence Force soldiers participated in a mortar live-fire activity during Exercise Wantok Warrior 2026 in Townsville, Queensland — the first time PNGDF personnel have conducted mortar live-fire on foreign soil. The exercise involved soldiers from the PNGDF's 2nd Royal Pacific Islands Regiment and the Australian Army's 3rd Brigade.
60. On 9 July, the Nevada National Guard held a high-level engagement with Tonga's Natural Disaster Risk Management Office ahead of Exercise Taufatahi, a multiday field activity testing multiagency national response to a natural disaster.
61. On 9 July, Vanuatu and PNG signed a Memorandum of Understanding on police cooperation, covering intelligence sharing, criminal investigations, specialised policing, leadership development, technical cooperation, operational support, training, and professional development over a two-year period.
62. On 10 July, Fiji Navy personnel completed specialised training with the Royal Australian Air Force under the Defence Pacific Air Program, focused on the aerial deployment of emergency survival equipment to vessels or persons in distress.
63. On 10 July, 20 Fiji Police officers graduated from a Crime Investigators Course designed with the support of New Zealand Police.
64. From 10 July, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Close Personal Protection Department, in partnership with the China Police Liaison Team, commenced a three-week specialised training programme focused on ground control and defensive techniques.
65. On 13 July, the Adjutant General of the US Nevada National Guard paid a courtesy call on Fiji RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai at RFMF Headquarters, reaffirming the State Partnership Program between the two forces. Discussions focused on enhancing Territorial Force capability through joint training, leadership development, and NCO development.
66. On 13 July, two Caracal military transport helicopters were delivered to Tontouta airbase in New Caledonia, replacing the older Puma fleet as part of the French Army's air asset modernisation in the territory.
67. From 13–24 July, US Army and the PNG Defence Force conducted Exercise Tamiok Strike 26 in three locations across PNG, including a battalion staff exercise, a military police field exercise, engineering work on classrooms, health programmes, and an infantry field exercise. Australian and New Zealand defence force personnel also participated.
68. Around 14 July, nearly 100 Crime Prevention Committee community members in Solomon Islands completed specialised police training jointly delivered by the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the China Police Liaison Team, following a suspected arson attack at Bloody Ridge National Park east of Honiara.
69. Around 15 July, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force completed the Driving Instructor Training of Trainers Programme, delivered over six weeks in partnership with the RSIPF–AFP Policing Partnership Program and Solomon Islands Professional Driver Training Services. The programme rebuilds RSIPF's internal capacity to deliver standardised driver training.
70. Around 15 July, Fiji's Police Commissioner met Acting British High Commissioner to Fiji at Fiji Police Headquarters, reaffirming bilateral commitment to strengthening cooperation in policing with a focus on leadership development and transnational crime.
71. On 17 July, the Fiji Police Force announced that the Australian Federal Police funded the retrofitting of four Crime Scene Investigations fleet vehicles to store and transport forensic equipment, strengthening forensic officers' response capability.
72. Around 17 July, the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre delivered training to 176 Fiji Police recruits undertaking the Constable Qualifying Course, covering violence against women and girls, human rights, relevant legislation, and survivor-centred policing.
73. Around 19 July, Republic of Fiji Military Force Engineers concluded Exercise Vau Dei, a five-day field exercise testing combat engineering capabilities and defence machinery as part of the unit's annual training cycle.
74. On 20 July, the Solomon Islands Prime Minister met the United States Coast Guard Vice Commandant Admiral in Washington, discussing closer cooperation on maritime security challenges and strengthening bilateral security ties. It was also announced that the Solomon Islands will become the 13th country to sign a shiprider agreement with the USCG.
75. On 20 July, the Republic of Korea's Ambassador to Fiji paid a courtesy call on Fiji Police Commissioner at Police Headquarters.
76. From 20 July, 12 Republic of Fiji Military Force personnel participated in Exercise Pitch Black 2026, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force in Darwin, Australia.
77. On 20 July, the Republic of Fiji Military Force announced the construction of a new AUD$41 million Joint Logistics Command Warehouse at Bayview Heights in Suva, intended to serve both RFMF and disaster response purposes.
78. From 20 July to 2 August, 14 Republic of Fiji Military Forces personnel participated in Exercise Garuda Canti Dharma III 2026 in Indonesia, a multinational peacekeeping exercise jointly organised by the Indonesian National Armed Forces and the US Indo-Pacific Command. The exercise includes 700 personnel from 22 countries, with training focused on leadership, interoperability, and operational readiness for UN peacekeeping missions.
79. Around 21 July, Republic of Fiji Military Force soldiers participated in Exercise Bula First Shot in Queensland, conducting live-fire training alongside the 8th/9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, focused on combat shooting skills.
80. On 22 July, Fiji Police Force established a new community police post at Port Denarau through a partnership with Port Denarau Marina Pte Limited.
81. Around 23 July, a Fiji–Samoa firefighter twinning arrangement signed in 2025 delivered its first joint activity, urban search-and-rescue and swift water rescue training.
82. On 27 July, the Republic of Fiji Military Force and the New Zealand Defence Force held Bilateral Defence Talks in Wellington, New Zealand. Discussions covered capacity building, maritime security, professional military education, and defence policy support.
83. On 29 July, Acting Samoa Police Commissioner Leiataua Samuelu Afamasaga, accompanied by the SPPCS Executive and New Zealand Police advisers, conducted an Executive Professional Inspection of police outposts across Upolu, marking the inaugural joint inspection under the Samoa–New Zealand Policing Programme launched in July 2026.
84. Around 29 July, a three-day Women, Peace and Security in Policing training programme for police representatives from PNG, Fiji, Vanuatu, and Solomon Islands concluded in Honiara.
85. Around 30 July, Timor-Leste announced the establishment of an all-women platoon within the Falintil–Forças de Defesa de Timor-Leste, which will be developed with the assistance of eight New Zealand Defence Force trainers.
86. On 31 July, Vanuatu and PNG announced a forthcoming agreement to formalise Vanuatu Mobile Force–PNG Defence Force training cooperation, with a signing ceremony scheduled for 31 August 2026.
87. On 31 July, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, visited the Joint Task Force Command at Blackrock Camp in Fiji, meeting with RFMF Commander, the Assistant Commissioner of Police, and the Deputy Commissioner of the Fiji Corrections Service. No changes to RFMF peacekeeping operations were announced.
88. On 2 August, Australia donated new vehicles, marine equipment, and mobile satellite internet technology to the Vanuatu Police Force Northern Command, to enhance the VPF's ability to patrol by land and sea and deliver policing services to remote communities across Sanma Province.
89. On 2 August, 12 Vanuatu Police Force officers commenced a six-week Detective Training Program at the Police Training College in Port Vila, the first step towards gaining detective accreditation. The programme is delivered by VPF trainers with assistance from AFP detectives.
90. On 3 August, Fiji Police Force deployed seven officers to AFP-hosted United Nations pre-deployment training at the Pinkenba Hub in Brisbane, Australia, with two serving as part of the pre-deployment training team. The Vanuatu Police Force deployed five officers, and on 4 August Samoa deployed five police officers.
91. On 3 August, a new warehouse for the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services Assets and ICT Division was officially opened at Tuanaimato, funded by Australia. The facility is designed to serve as a backup operational site.
92. On 3 August, the Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services officially opened the new Airport and K9 Office at Faleolo International Airport, funded by Australia.
93. Around 4 August, the PNG Police Special Services Division in North Fly received three new police-marked vehicles from Ok Tedi Mining Limited to strengthen security operations in the Tabubil mining area and surrounding communities.
94. On 5 August, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, through the RSIPF–AFP Policing Partnership Program, graduated 10 officers from a Close Personal Protection course including a train-the-trainer component.
95. On 8 August, Exercise Bougainville 2026 was officially opened in Fiji. The exercise, which runs from 7 to 28 August with the main operational phase from 9 to 25 August, involves approximately 660 personnel from seven agencies and international partners and is designed to test RFMF operational readiness and inter-agency crisis response, with an emphasis on identifying gaps in emergency coordination with line agencies. Fiji has described it as a brigade-level multiagency national security and disaster exercise.
96. On 9 August, the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service and the Australian Border Force held a bilateral meeting to identify further areas for support to border management capabilities, including the Container Examination Facility project, maritime vessels and training, integrity measures, and risk assessments at the Nadi Parcel Post.
97. Around 9 August, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Women's Advisory Network held its Annual General Meeting in Honiara, drawing more than 200 women police officers, and supported by the RSIPF–AFP Policing Partnership Program.
98. Around 9 August, 27 Royal PNG Constabulary officers from the Border Command completed a six-week Sergeant Course in Wewak.
99. On 11 August, four officers from the Fiji Police Force Mobile Force completed a four-day Personal Protection Officer training programme facilitated by the United States Embassy in Suva.
100. On 11 August, a four-day joint disaster response and humanitarian field training exercise led by the US Pacific Command was conducted in PNG with the PNG Defence Force, National Disaster Centre, National Maritime Safety Authority, and the Wisconsin National Guard.
101. On 11 August, Japan formally handed over a vessel, trucks, and maritime oil-spill response equipment valued at AUD$88 million to Fiji's Maritime Safety Authority, aimed at strengthening Fiji's capacity to respond to major maritime pollution incidents.
102. On 12 August, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force received two Naiad patrol vessels from the Australian Federal Police during a ceremony at Aola Wharf, as part of a broader AUD$6.5 million Australian Government investment in maritime policing capacity across Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.
103. On 12 August, the United States formally handed over three Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats and a new boat ramp to the Fiji Navy.
104. On 13 August, 145 Republic of Fiji Military Forces recruits graduated from the Basic Recruit Course at Queen Elizabeth Barracks.
105. On 13 August, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force received the newly upgraded Tactical Training Centre at Rove, officially handed over by the Australian Federal Police. The approximately AUD$1 million facility was funded by the Australian Government.
106. Around 13 August, a two-week Train the Trainer course for the Officer Safety Pacific programme concluded at the Vanuatu Police Training College, graduating 10 VPF officers and funded by the New Zealand Government.
107. Around 13 August, a China Police team conducted a demonstration in Vanuatu, with Vanuatu Mobile Force officers showcasing martial arts skills and other drills based on their training and preparation for the UAE SWAT Challenge.
108. On 15 August, Fiji's border security capability launched a new CCTV surveillance system and multipurpose room at Nadi International Airport, funded under the Australia–Fiji Vuvale Partnership Program.
109. On 16 August, Fiji Police Batch 70 officially commenced a six-month Basic Recruit Course at the Fiji Police Academy.
110. On 16 August, the Vanuatu Police Force Maritime Wing in Luganville received a Starlink terminal to improve maritime communications in the Northern Command, provided through the United States Defence Corporation Program.
111. On 17 August, Australia and Solomon Islands launched a new multi-agency border post and patrol boat base facility in Lofung, Shortland Islands. The AUD$101 million facility co-locates the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, Customs, Immigration, and Biosecurity officials.
112. On 17 August, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force and the Vanuatu Police Force signed a memorandum of understanding in Honiara, establishing a framework for bilateral cooperation in maritime policing and surveillance, maritime resource sharing, training and capacity development, criminal and forensic cooperation, personnel exchanges, and intelligence and information sharing.
113. On 18 August, the Fiji Police Force announced the expansion of its Safe City surveillance network, with 230 CCTV cameras planned for 50 sites along the Suva–Nausori corridor, with future expansion intended for Nadi and Lautoka.
114. Around 18 August, Japanese Government officials visited the Solomon Islands Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in policing, national security, and correctional services.
115. Over 18–20 August, police officers from across Fiji undertook a Training of Trainers on Emergency Management, supported by the Australian Federal Police, New Zealand Police, and Fiji's National Disaster Management Office. The programme is designed to strengthen frontline supervisors' command and control capability during major emergencies.
116. On 20 August, a Republic of Fiji Military Forces officer was refused bail and remanded by the Suva Magistrates Court on charges of alleged methamphetamine possession, attempted bribery, and serious assault.
117. On 21 August, the Fiji Navy began a second round of trials alongside the Royal New Zealand Navy involving uncrewed surface vessels for maritime surveillance in Fijian waters.

Dates to Watch

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