FS Bougainville carries out Maritime Surveillance of Line Islands

The French Navy vessel FS Bougainville arrived in Kiritimati on Saturday, 25 October, as part of France’s ongoing maritime cooperation in the Pacific region.

 

Bougainville, a multi-mission support vessel (BSAOM) based in Papeete, French Polynesia, is a key asset in France’s Overseas Support and Assistance fleet. The primary objective of this deployment was to conduct maritime surveillance operations targeting illegal, unregulated and unreported (IUU) fishing activities within the Line Islands. The mission was carried out in close collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources (MFOR) and the Kiribati Police Services (KPS).

 

During its stay, the vessel successfully tested Kiritimati’s refueling and restocking capabilities. The crew expressed high satisfaction with the port’s logistical support, reinforcing Kiritimati’s strategic value in regional maritime operations. Honourable Minister Mikarite Temari was formally welcomed aboard Bougainville on Saturday morning for a guided tour of the vessel, which concluded with a ceremonial three-course luncheon featuring traditional French cuisine.

 

On Saturday, crew members took the opportunity to explore cultural local sites around Ronton and Tabwakea. On Sunday, MLPID organised a picnic at Paris Point — a gesture of goodwill and friendship between the people of Kiritimati and the French Navy.

 

This marks Bougainville’s second visit to Kiritimati, the first having taken place under restricted conditions during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2021.

Location of Paris Point: https://www.google.com/.../1%C2%B056'06%22N+157%C2%B029...