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The Australian federal government has handed over a new Guardian Class patrol boat, the HMTSS Te Mataili III, to the Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Feleti Teo OBE.
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The delivery of the vessel follows the elevation of the security partnership between Australia and Tuvalu under the Falepili Union.
The vessel will strengthen Tuvalu’s capability to protect its critical maritime resources.
HMTSS Te Mataili III is the 21st vessel delivered under the Pacific Maritime Security Program – Australia’s 30-year commitment of uninterrupted engagement with its Pacific partners.
“The delivery of HMTSS Te Mataili III to Tuvalu demonstrates Australia’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of our Pacific partners,” Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Development Pat Conroy said.
“This vessel will strengthen Tuvalu’s maritime capability, as we work towards our shared vision of a peaceful, prosperous and resilient Pacific.”
The Australia–Tuvalu Falepili Union Treaty entered into force in August 2024, advancing their shared interests and helping to safeguard the collective sovereignty and security.
“It is an honour to hand over HMTSS Te Mataili III to Tuvalu with their prime minister, the Honourable Feleti Teo OBE,” Minister for Defence Personnel Matt Keogh said.
“Australia is proud to be Tuvalu’s primary security partner and we greatly value the enhanced partnership between our nations.”
