The Royal New Zealand Navy has deployed two Bluebottle unmanned surface vessels (USVs), Tahi and Rua, to Fiji as part of Operation Calypso to enhance maritime security. Transported by HMNZS Canterbury, the mission targets illegal fishing and trafficking within Fiji’s exclusive economic zone. Canterbury, the Navy’s largest multi-role vessel, also serves as a command hub and support base. A Royal New Zealand Air Force King Air provides aerial surveillance, while the Fijian Navy prepares to intercept suspect vessels. Monitoring of the USVs is jointly managed from Suva’s Maritime Essential Services Centre and HMNZS Matataua in Auckland.
