RSIPV Gizo returns to Solomon Islands to secure PIF Leaders Meeting
The Royal Solomon Islands Police Vessel (RSIPV) Gizo returned home to Honiara today following her five yearly deep level maintenance period in Australia, providing a significant boost to Solomon Islands’ maritime security capability ahead of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting next week.
The planned maintenance period was fully supported and funded by Australia under the Defence Cooperation Program and Pacific Maritime Security Program.
To welcome home Gizo and her crew, senior officials including Permanent Secretary for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Karen Galokale, RSIPF Deputy Commissioner National Operations, Ian Vaevaso, Australian Federal Police Commander, Hall O’Meagher and Australian Defence Advisor, CAPT Emma Griffiths, attended an event at RISPF Maritime Headquarters at Aola Wharf, Honiara.
Australian High Commissioner His Excellency Rod Hilton said the event marked another significant milestone in support of Solomon Islands’ preparations to host the Pacific Islands Forum.
“The return of RSIPV Gizo to Solomon Islands is a boost to Solomon Islands’ maritime security and will directly support regional security through support to the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
The maintenance for RSIPV Gizo occurred at the Austal shipyard in Cairns, Australia. Major enhancements included the installation of an Electronic Chart of Display Information System – replacing traditional paper charts with an electronic navigation system for enhanced situational awareness, increased data recording, safety and efficiency benefits.
Starlink was also installed – facilitating improved communications during patrols in remote areas of Solomon Islands.
Other milestones achieved during the maintenance period included major engine and generator services, hull preservation and maintenance, servicing of all survival and firefighting equipment, calibration of navigation equipment, propulsion alignment checks and the replacement of the sea boat with an upgraded model.
The crew of RSIPV Gizo also undertook refresher training at the Australian Maritime College during the period, ensuring their skills and qualifications remain up to date upon return to Solomon Islands ahead of the Pacific Islands Forum.
Australia’s Defence Advisor Captain Emma Griffiths highlighted the importance of maritime security for keeping borders secure, ensuring freedom of navigation for maritime trade routes, and protecting borders and territorial waters against illegal activity and illicit movements of people and goods.
“That is why Australia, under our Defence Cooperation Program, continues to support Solomon Islands’ maritime security capability, through our longstanding partnership with the RSIPF Maritime Force,” Captain Griffiths said.
The support aligns with the Solomon Islands National Security Strategy (2025–2028) and reflects the strength of the Solomon Islands–Australia security partnership.
Australia remains committed to standing alongside Solomon Islands as a trusted partner—supporting sovereign capabilities and working together for a secure, resilient and prosperous Pacific.
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AHC statement