Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) Navy vessel the HMPNGS Francis Agwi, was recently part of naval fleet in the International Fleet Review as part of exercise Kakadu in Sydney, Australia marking the 125th anniversary of Australia’s Navy.

HMPNGS Francis Agwi, commanded by LEUT Ziegfried Bartley, is one of the four Guardian-class Patrol Boats in the PNGDF Maritime element fleet, and was gifted by the Australian Government in 2021 through the Pacific Maritime Security Program.

HMPNGS Francis Agwi sailed in formation into Sydney Harbour alongside the other participating vessels, accompanied by a Royal Australian Air Force aerial display and ceremonial gun salute.

Chief of the PNGDF, Rear Admiral Polewara, was in Sydney to witness HMPNGS Francis Agwi’s contribution, joining the Australian Chief of Defence Force Admiral Johnston and Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Hammond, as well as other dignitaries on board HMAS Leeuwin to view the official sail past.

Since the 19th century, Fleet Reviews have been held for commemorative events and celebrations, including inviting other national navies to

participate by sending vessels. This year, thirty-one ships from nineteen nations participated in the Royal Australian Navy’s International Fleet Review, including Papua New Guinea.

HMPNGS Francis Agwi is due to arrive back in Papua New Guinea soon.