Nafanua III handed over to the Samoa Government in Perth, Australia

Apia, Samoa – 24 November 2024: The Guardian Class Patrol Boat the Nafanua III was handed over from the government of Australia to the Samoan Government in Perth, Australia this week.

The vessel was accepted by the Minister of Police, Faualo Harry Schuster on behalf of the government of Samoa in the presence of the Commissioner of Police, Auapa’au Logoitino Filipo, the Assistant Commissioner Leausalilō Norman Meni, and ACEO Naomi Claire Harris.

“This handover ceremony of the vessel represents a significant step forward in Samoa’s maritime security capabilities and underscores Australia’s commitment to strengthening maritime security in the Pacific region,” said Minister Faualo.

He further stated, that the handover “solidifies the strong partnership between Australia and Samoa, demonstrating their shared interest in safeguarding regional security and prosperity as highlighted in the Boe Declaration.”

The Guardian Class Patrol Boat, Nafanua III, is a state-of-the-art vessel that will greatly enhance Samoa’s ability to safeguard its territorial waters and protect its citizens from maritime security threats. With its advanced capabilities and cutting-edge technology, the Nafanua III will play a crucial role in maintaining law and order at sea and deterring illegal activities.

Faualo expressed gratitude to the government of Australia for its continuous support for Samoa’s security efforts and that the assistance demonstrates Australia’s commitment to regional stability, cooperation, and security.

Apology for grounding Nafanua 11
In addition to expressing his gratitude, the Minister also apologized on behalf of the Samoan government for grounding the Nafanua II patrol boat in 2021.

“While in this regard, we respectfully wish to take this opportunity to apologize to the Australian Government for this shortcoming,” expressed the Minister.

The Nafanua 11 was grounded on the reef near the Salelologa wharf early morning after dropping off police officers in anticipation of unrest from a political rally and the vessel  was deemed a right off.

Faualo also acknowledged the Australian Government’s continued support and assistance during the absence of a patrol boat.

“We appreciate the commitment and dedication shown by the Australian Government in helping us secure our maritime borders and protect national interests.

The gifting of the Nafanua III has not only provided our maritime law enforcement unit with a much-needed asset but also demonstrated Australia’s commitment to regional security and cooperation. It is through the continued support of like-minded partners like Australia that we can ensure the security and well-being of our island nation.

The ceremony was presided over by the Member of Parliament Ms. Tania Lawrence from the government of Australia and the Minister of Police Faualo Harry Schuster from the Samoan government.

The signing ceremony marked the culmination of months of meticulous planning and cooperation between the Australian Government and the Samoan government.

The event was witnessed by Chief Executive Officer of Austal Ltd Mr. Patrick Gregg, Senior Representatives from participating departments and agencies of the Australian Government, members of the Samoan community and Samoan maritime officers who will be responsible for bringing the vessel home.

The ceremony concluded with the official signing of the handover documents, marking the transfer of ownership of the Nafanua 111 Guardian Class Patrol Boat from the Australian to Samoan government. The Nafanua 111 Guardian Class Patrol Boat is expected to arrive in Samoa on the 20th of January 2024.

The Samoan naval officers who will sail the Nafanua 111 to arrive in Samoa in mid January 2024.