Australian and Micronesian representatives gathered at HMAS Stirling to commemorate the delivery of the new Guardian-class patrol boat FSS Bethwel Henry.
The boat is the16th vessel built and delivered under Australia’s Pacific Maritime Security Program.
Defence Minister Richard Marles joined Vice President of Micronesia Aren B Palik for the handover of the boat on August 28.
“I am proud to see this vessel carry forward our partnership with the Federated States of Micronesia, as we work together in support of a stable, prosperous and secure region”, Mr Marles said.
During the ceremony, Vice President Palik said he was also pleased with the results of the partnership.
“It has been a laudable and successful program. Indeed, in my humble view, one of the most successful foreign policy instruments that the Australian Government has implemented”, Vice President Palik said.
Bethwel Henry will continue the important work of the Australian-built Pacific-class patrol boat, FSS Palikir, which was decommissioned this year after 33 years of service to Micronesia and Pacific communities.
With capacity to sail faster for longer distances and carry more humanitarian and disaster relief supplies, Bethwel Henry will support Micronesia to protect its territorial waters, enhance its maritime security and deliver increased surveillance capability, alongside sister vessel, FSS Tosiwo Nakayama.
The Pacific Maritime Security Program builds on the success of the original Pacific Patrol Boat Program, and marks 60 years of uninterrupted commitment to, and engagement in, the Pacific.
