In support of Operation Calypso—an initiative to strengthen maritime security in the South Pacific—the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) has deployed two Bluebottle Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs) to Fiji. Delivered aboard the RNZN’s largest ship, HMNZS Canterbury, the USVs, named Tahi and Rua, were brought into Suva to assist in monitoring Fiji’s exclusive economic zone and to help counter narcotics smuggling and illegal fishing.
HMNZS Canterbury, a 9,000-tonne Multi-Role Vessel (MRV), is designed for amphibious, logistical, and humanitarian missions. It is equipped with a well dock, helicopter flight deck, and substantial cargo and troop transport capability. For Operation Calypso, Canterbury not only transported the USVs but also serves as a command center for joint maritime operations with Fijian forces.
A Royal New Zealand Air Force No. 42 Squadron King Air aircraft provides airborne surveillance, while Fijian naval units are positioned to intercept suspect vessels. The USVs are remotely monitored from the Maritime Essential Services Centre in Suva, manned collaboratively by RNZN and Fijian Navy teams. Outside of standard operating hours, control duties are assumed by HMNZS Matataua, operating from Devonport Naval Base in Auckland.
