Australia has handed over Tonga’s new landing craft, VOEA Late, with King Tupou VI formally commissioning it yesterday.
Assistant Minister for Defence Peter Khalil represented the Australian Government at the ceremony at Masefield Naval Base.
The vessel, delivered under Australia’s Pacific Maritime Security Program, is intended to boost Tonga’s capacity for humanitarian relief, regional maritime patrol, and security operations.
Crown Prince Tupouto’a ’Ulukalala, who also serves as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for His Majesty’s Armed Forces, attended the commissioning.
Australia has committed to a through-life maintenance and sustainment program for VOEA Late, including ongoing crew training to maintain readiness.
“It’s an honour to attend VOEA Late’s commissioning by His Majesty King Tupou VI, and see the vessel officially transition into active service,” said Mr Khalil.
“This is the latest demonstration of the enduring strength of the Australia and Tonga bilateral relationship.”
VOEA Late was delivered and handed over on 29 August 2025. According to marine technical sources, the vessel features an all-steel hull of 30 metres length, beam of 8 metres, draft 1.3 metres, crew of six, and a cargo capacity of 60 tonnes.
The commissioning reinforces Australia’s role as a security partner in the Pacific and aligns with the recently signed Statement of Intent to elevate bilateral ties under the proposed “Kaume’a ’Ofi” partnership.
