The Tonga Royal Navy has welcomed its newest vessel, the VOEA Late, at Masefield Naval Base this week. The official handover marked an important step in strengthening Tonga’s maritime capability and its ability to safeguard the nation’s vast ocean territory.

The landing craft, gifted by Australia, is the largest of its kind ever to be operated by the Tonga Royal Navy. For a country whose maritime domain far exceeds its land area, Late represents more than just a new vessel — it is a tool for both security and service to communities across the Kingdom.

At the ceremony, attended by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupouto‘a ‘Ulukalala, Australia’s High Commissioner to Tonga, HE Brek Batley, highlighted the significance of the delivery:

“As a maritime nation, Australia understands Tonga’s challenge in securing its vast ocean. That is why we are committed to supporting Tonga protect its maritime boundaries. Late is the largest landing craft ever to be operated by the Tonga Royal Navy. She has been tailored to Tonga’s needs, with two deck cranes, two light utility boats, and the endurance to reach every corner of this Kingdom’s vast maritime domain.

With this new capability, His Majesty’s Armed Forces are better equipped not only to safeguard Tonga’s sovereignty, but also to provide life-saving assistance to communities at home, and to extend help to Pacific neighbours when disaster strikes.”