Non-Naval Security

Republic of Palau accepts patrol vessel donation

Ross McGravie

The Republic of Palau, off Japan's south coast, has accepted delivery of the new 40-metre patrol vessel from the non-profit Nippon Foundation.

The donation also involving an administrative building and vessel berth as part of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in February 2015 that included support towards Palau's coast guard capability enhancement, protection of the environment and eco-conscious tourism.

Named after the Great Frigate Bird of Palau, the 26-tonne marine vessel PSS Kedam can carry a crew of 20 and will be equipped with the latest navigation and surveillance systems.

The largest police vessel to date, the PSS Kedam, will greatly support Palau's marine surveillance and monitoring in addition to the PSS H.I. Remelik

The foundation will pay for Kedam's maintenance costs for 10 years, while the Sasakawa Peace Foundation will provide training and salary for the crew.

Other organisations involved include the Japan Association of Marine Safety, the Fishing Engineering Co. of Japan, the Kegoya Dock Company, the Penta-Ocean Construction Company, and the NBK Corporation.