Since supporting their first UN mission in Lebanon in 1978 the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have punched above their weight in supporting UN missions and other peacekeeping operations.
Defence supports this commitment by providing strategic airlift support to the RFMF on a range of peacekeeping missions.
On July 16, the Royal Australian Air Force partnered with Fiji to transport 113 RFMF troops from Fiji to Darwin on board an Australian KC-30A multi-role tanker transport.
They were then flown to the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Israel - a mission they've supported since 2013 with an annual rotation of deployed personnel.
Pilot Officer Isaac Morris, of 33 Squadron, said Fiji was contributing to a bigger picture, and this airlift task was part of the ADF's support of that contribution.
The ADF has been transporting RFMF troops to their UN missions and peacekeeping operations for more than five years.
Major Amani Tuimalabe, of the RFMF contingent, said he was part of the first ADF airlift in 2019, headed to the Sinai in Egypt.
"I've been on six deployments so far, but this is my first time supporting the UNDOF. I expect it to be an eye-opener," Major Tuimalabe said.
'I've been on six deployments so far, but this is my first time supporting the UNDOF. I expect it to be an eye-opener.'
Joining him are infantrymen, a handful of engineers to maintain facilities, RFMF Bushmaster drivers and mechanics, a medical officer and a few nurses.
These include observers to monitor the situation on the ground, along with troops to occupy watchtowers.
In addition to mid-air refuelling, the KC-30A that the RFMF contingent travelled in can carry up to 270 passengers on long-haul flights.
Crew attendant Leading Aircraftwoman Sharni Woods said the aircraft transported all kinds of passengers, from Australian Army personnel and US Marines to Australian citizens being repatriated from disasters and conflict zones abroad.
"Our main role is to ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers and crew," Leading Aircraftwoman Woods said.
"But we also aim to leave passengers with a lasting, positive experience. Whether it's serving a coffee or tea, or offering a hot meal or sandwich, we want it to be memorable."
