Austal has moved the Guardian-class Patrol Boat (GCPB) Aitana off hardstands at Henderson in what appears to be preparation for handover to Fiji. In October, Fiji announced that its second GCPB, RFNS Puamau, would be decommissioned, resulting in a capability gap.
Aitana was originally intended for Timor-Leste, however, it had been on a hard stand at Henderson since May after the Southeast Asian country indefinitely delayed delivery.
In late October, Aitana was again launched into Cockburn Sound and moved alongside Austal’s fitting-out wharf. At the same time, the vessel was also renamed Timo and transferred to the Fijian flag.
The name Timo likely comes from Able Seaman Timo Puamau who died during World War II. While Timo was previously honoured by RFNS Puamau, given that vessel’s short life span, his first name appears to be destined for the future RFNS Timo.
Fiji’s other GCPB, RFNS Savenaca (401), also bears the first name of a Fijian sailor who died in World War II, Ordinary Seaman Savenaca Naulumatua.
“There’s a plan for a replacement. That will be made known in due time. That’s good news,” Fiji’s Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua told Fijian media on 23 October.
In November, Austal disclosed an order from Defence for an additional GCPB, bringing the total planned fleet to 24. That disclosure came after Defence handed over the 21st GCPB, HMTSS Te Mataili III, to Tuvalu at Fleet Base West on 18 October.
Neither Defence nor Fiji’s Ministry of Home Affairs had responded to questions from ADM about Timo before deadline.