The Government of French Republic, through its Embassy in Suva handed over two advanced drones and two high-performance laptops to the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) during a ceremony at RFMF Headquarters in Suva on June 5, 2025.

French Ambassador Julie Le Saos presented the equipment, valued at FJD $140,000, following a quarter guard welcome and discussions with RFMF Commander Major General Jone Kalouniwai. The donation reiterates France’s commitment to strengthening Fiji’s defense capabilities and regional security cooperation.

Ambassador Le Saos highlighted Fiji’s status as the first Pacific Island nation to receive French-supplied surveillance drones, marking a milestone in bilateral defense relations. She emphasised the critical role of technology in modern security operations, particularly in maritime surveillance, disaster response, and combating transnational threats. The drones, supported by a two-week training program in New Caledonia for RFMF personnel, will enhance Fiji’s operational efficiency across its vast maritime domain.

Major General Kalouniwai expressed gratitude for France’s ongoing support, noting that the equipment would significantly improve the RFMF’s surveillance and disaster response capabilities. “This donation strengthens our partnership and ensures Fiji remains a key contributor to regional stability,” he said.

The laptops will aid in strategic planning, while the drones provide real-time intelligence, crucial for addressing challenges like illegal fishing and natural disasters.

The donation reflects France’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy, which prioritizes partnerships with Pacific nations to address shared security concerns. France and Fiji have a long history of collaboration, including joint military exercises, peacekeeping missions, and disaster relief efforts. This initiative reinforces their shared commitment to a secure and resilient Pacific region through innovation and cooperation.

Looking ahead, both nations aim to expand their defense ties, with potential collaborations in cybersecurity, joint training, and climate resilience. The handover ceremony concluded with a demonstration of the drones’ capabilities, symbolizing the growing technological advancement of Fiji’s military and the enduring partnership between the two countries.