According to information published by the Australian DoD on August 28, 2023, the Federated States of Micronesia welcomed their second Guardian-class Patrol Boat at a grand ceremony held in Perth.
A product of Austal’s craftsmanship in Australia, this Guardian-class boat is set to pick up from where the Pacific-class Patrol Boat FSS Palikir left off. The FSS Palikir, after rendering 33 years of commendable service to the Micronesian and Pacific communities, was retired earlier this year.
The newly inducted vessel boasts several enhancements over its predecessor, including higher speed capabilities, longer range, and a more substantial capacity to hold humanitarian and disaster relief provisions.
Together with its companion vessel, FSS Tosiwo Nakayama, the boat will be pivotal in ensuring Micronesia’s sovereignty over its waters and elevating its maritime surveillance potential.