Fiji to deploy Australian-made solar-powered maritime drones
The Bluebottle drones can stay at sea for months and will patrol Fiji’s waters for drug traffickers and other threats.
Fiji plans to deploy Australian-made solar-powered maritime drones to patrol its waters and combat drug trafficking and other threats, according to a deal announced on Friday. The drones, called Bluebottles, will be supplied by Australia and will remain at sea for extended periods, powered by solar and wind energy. These unmanned boats, manufactured in Sydney, are equipped with sonar to detect vessels and submarines.
Australia's Defence Minister, Pat Conroy, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to combat the illicit drug trade across the Pacific region. Fiji's decision comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance maritime security and counter transnational crime, including the surge in methamphetamine and cocaine trafficking.
Australia has pledged AU$600 million (US$420 million) to Pacific Island countries for this purpose. The drones will be deployed next year, with production ramping up by the Australian company Ocius, which already operates a fleet from a base in Darwin.
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- Fiji to deploy Australian-made solar-powered maritime drones freemalaysiatoday.com
