Solomon Islands receives Guardian-class patrol boat from Australia

The RSIVP Gizo, the Guardian-class patrol boat of the Solomon Islands. Photo c/o Austal.

The distribution of new Guardian-class patrol boats to beneficiaries of Australia’s A$2 billion Pacific Maritime Security Program continues, as the Solomon Islands receive their patrol boat from the Australian government.

The boat, which was named RSIVP Gizo, is the fifth Guardian-class patrol boat released under the program, and the first and only unit for the Solomon Islands.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogovare and Minister for Police, National Secruity and Correctional Services Anthony Veke were present to receive the patrol boat in Henderson, Western Australia.

12 countries, mostly Pacific island nations plus Papua New Guinea and Timor Leste are scheduled to receive 21 Guardian-class patrol boats granted by the Australian government. The boats were designed and built by Australian shipbuilder Austal.

[1] Australian Department of Defence