Samoa Joins the Royal Australian Navy’s 125th Anniversary Celebration

By Jeannie Penehuro/

Apia, SAMOA – 02 April 2026: Samoa participated in the Royal Australian Navy’s 125th anniversary celebrations, which culminated in a grand fleet review as part of Exercise Kakadu 2026.

The event brought together 31 ships from 19 nations, emphasizing the importance of maritime cooperation across the Indo-Pacific.

Samoa was represented by its Guardian-class Patrol Boat, Nafanua III, which was present during the festivities.

The Nafanua 111 crew of 21 personnel, including two women and nineteen men, showcased Samoa’s commitment to regional security and maritime partnership.

The celebrations kicked off in Cairns, Queensland, with a series of activities, including a sports day designed to foster camaraderie among participating crews.

The fleet then set sail for Sydney, embarking on a nearly three-week journey along Australia’s coastline.

The event served as a platform for naval interoperability and regional unity, with Samoa’s presence highlighting the vital role Pacific Island nations play in the collective security landscape.

Samoa’s participation in such a historic milestone underscored its active engagement in regional maritime initiatives and its dedication to strengthening ties within the Pacific community.

The celebration not only marked a significant milestone for the Royal Australian Navy but also demonstrated the importance of regional collaboration in maintaining peace and stability across the Pacific region.