Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil, will travel to the Kingdom of Tonga today to represent the Australian Government at the commissioning ceremony for His Majesty's Armed Forces' new landing craft, VOEA Late, at the Masefield Naval Base.
Delivered under the Albanese Government's Pacific Maritime Security Program, VOEA Late will strengthen Tonga's ability to deliver humanitarian assistance and disaster relief during times of need, as well as its ability to deter, detect and disrupt illegal maritime activities across the region.
His Majesty King Tupou VI will formally commission the vessel, and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Tupouto'a 'Ulukalala, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for His Majesty's Armed Forces, will also attend the ceremony.
Australia will continue to support the Tongan Royal Navy via a through-life maintenance and sustainment package, along with training for crew members to ensure the vessel's operational readiness.
The commissioning of VOEA Late is the latest demonstration of the enduring strength of the Australia and Tonga bilateral relationship and follows the recent signing of a Statement of Intent announcing a shared commitment to elevate ties between our two nations under the proposed 'Kaume'a 'Ofi' (close trusted friendship) Partnership Agreement.
Today's ceremony marks the vessel's official entry into service, following its delivery and handover at Masefield Naval Base on 29 August 2025.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Defence, Peter Khalil:
"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.
"Australia is proud to partner with Tonga on maritime security and disaster preparedness so we can further the close relationship between our defence forces.
"Our Pacific Maritime Security Program is a 30-year commitment to invest in maritime security partnerships throughout the Pacific and reinforce Australia's role as the security partner of choice for our Pacific neighbours.
"Now more than ever, we remain focused on supporting the maritime security needs of our partners in the region."
