The island nation of Niue is receiving a fleet of high-tech patrol boats to help it combat illegal fishing.
Paid for by the Australian-funded Pacific Maritime Security Program (PMSP), the 40-meter-long Guardian-class ocean patrol vessels will replace the antiquated Pacific patrol boats currently in use in Niue.
“The new vessels are equipped with the latest detection and seafaring technology, have a significantly greater operating range, and use updated satellite communications systems,” the PSMP said in a press release.
The PSMP involves Australian aid given in exchange for help in protecting Australia’s home waters from illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU ) fishing, according to the Australian Fisheries Management Authority.
“The replacement of the Pacific Class Patrol vessels has presented an opportunity to engage Parties to the Niue Treaty Subsidiary Agreement (NTSA). As the Guardian Patrol vessels are commissioned, AFMA is using this as an opportunity to conduct additional surveillance in the Australian Fishing Zone,” it said. “As the Guardian Patrol vessels transit Australian waters, on their way to their home ports, AFMA are asking crews to keep an eye out for any foreign fishing vessels in the AFZ.”
Photo courtesy of Australian Fisheries Management Authority
