In a notable advancement for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), the Naval Division has successfully executed a joint Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) exercise with the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy on October 8. This historic collaboration occurred as the PLA Navy Hospital Ship Ark Silk Road was departing, and focused on the efficient evacuation and medical treatment of severely injured personnel at sea, highlighting the capacity of both military forces to conduct coordinated responses in a maritime emergency.
During the exercise, RFMF personnel operated from their Hydrographic Vessel, the FNS Volasiga. The scenario involved a simulated maritime incident that required the rapid extraction of injured individuals from the Volasiga to the Ark Silk Road, where Chinese medical teams were on standby to provide advanced care. The Fijian naval forces successfully managed casualty stabilization, established communications with the hospital ship, and executed patient transfers under challenging sea conditions. The medical team aboard the Ark Silk Road showcased exceptional coordination, ensuring a smooth process for patient reception and care.
This crucial drill tested key emergency protocols, including inter-ship communication, casualty management, and patient transfer procedures. Notably, it was the first instance where Fijian naval personnel participated in a drill with a Chinese naval hospital ship, providing a unique opportunity to enhance their operational and technical skills.
The exercise not only expanded RFMF personnel’s exposure to modern medical capabilities and facilities but also bolstered their confidence in handling maritime medical evacuations. The successful implementation of the MEDEVAC exercise marks a significant achievement for the RFMF Naval Division, enhancing its readiness to respond to maritime emergencies—an essential requirement given Fiji’s geographic positioning.
Conducting the drill during the Ark Silk Road’s departure introduced a real-world dynamic, further enriching the training experience. The RFMF expressed its appreciation to the crew of the Ark Silk Road for their professionalism and teamwork, emphasizing a shared commitment to strengthening international partnerships in defense and emergency response.
This pioneering joint MEDEVAC exercise lays a robust foundation for future training and operational collaboration, improving Fiji’s maritime response capabilities and contributing to regional security. Both nations are looking to deepen their military relations, enhancing collaborative efforts in humanitarian assistance and increasing efficiency in response mechanisms throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Such initiatives exemplify hope for a resilient and cooperative future in addressing maritime and humanitarian challenges, underscoring a mutual dedication to safety and security within the Pacific community.