129 Republic of Fiji Military Forces personnel are currently participating in Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025—Australia’s largest combined military exercise—at Shoalwater Bay, Central Queensland, alongside over 30,000 troops from 19 nations.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka mentioned this in his ministerial statement when updating Parliament on his recent High-Level Visit to Australia, which took place from July 1st to 7th at the invitation of the Australian Government.
He was accompanied by the Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Minister for Immigration, Minister for Policing, Permanent Secretaries for the Office of the Prime Minister and Civil Service and Public Enterprise, as well as the Deputy Commander of the RFMF.
Rabuka highlighted Fiji’s involvement in a rotational company pilot, which is the first of its kind for any Pacific defence force — allowing RFMF and Australian Defence Force personnel to integrate and build joint capabilities before training together under Talisman Sabre.
He says this groundbreaking initiative deepens defence cooperation and strengthens regional security ties.
Rabuka says that our troops are building trust, sharing tactical knowledge, and forging lasting comradeship.
During the visit, the Fijian delegation observed a live offensive training demonstration and engaged with deployed personnel.
He says that as a former soldier, he understands how such visits boost morale and reinforce the values of service, loyalty, and professionalism.
The Prime Minister adds Talisman Sabre 2025 marks a major milestone in Fiji-Australia defence relations and highlights both countries’ shared commitment to regional peace and security.
