The Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, and Commander Land Force, Brigadier General Onisivoro Covunisaqa, proudly attended the opening of Exercise TALISMAN SABRE 2025 in Australia from 14β15 July 2025.
Hosted by the Australian Defence Force (ADF), TALISMAN SABRE is one of the regionβs largest bilateral military exercises, jointly conducted with the United States and involving 19 participating nations. The exercise underscores a shared commitment to strengthening Indo-Pacific security and cooperation.
Fijiβs presence was further marked by the Fiji Company (Coy), attached to the 8th/9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (8/9 RAR). The RFMF leadership also took the opportunity to meet with their Officer Commanding, Major Lacanikaibau, during a visit to the exercise area.
Bilateral engagements were a key feature of the visit, with high-level meetings held with:
β Admiral David Johnston, Chief of the Defence Force, Australia
β Rear Admiral Mat Williams, Vice Chief of Defence Force, New Zealand
β Lieutenant General Alfons Mais, Chief of Army, Germany
β Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, Chief of Army, Australia
These strategic dialogues reaffirm Fijiβs role as a committed partner in regional defence cooperation and interoperability.
