The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton is currently in Fiji and three Fijian shipriders will embark the ship to ride along and conduct patrols in support of the sovereignty of Fiji.
This is aimed to deter and stop illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, drug smuggling and transnational crime.
The Commanding Officer of the Stratton, Captain Stephen Adler says their relationship with their partner nations are more important than ever in combating illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
He further says they are pleased to work with their Fijian partners to maintain maritime sovereignty and security throughout the region.
The Stratton was commissioned into active service on March 31st,2012 and its primary missions are defence operations, counter-drug, law enforcement, search and rescue, fisheries enforcement and international outreach.
[Photos: US Embassy Suva]