RSIPF maritime officers complete intensive training on .50 caliber machine gun

A total of nineteen police maritime officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) have successfully completed a two-week advanced training course on the 12.7mm (.50 caliber) machine gun from 19 to 30 May 2025.

The training was delivered in partnership with the Sea Training Group of the Defence Cooperation Program (STG-DCP) as part of the ongoing defence collaboration between the RSIPF and the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

The program was designed to strengthen the operational capability, safety, and tactical proficiency of RSIPF Police Maritime personnel in the use of the 12.7mm weapon system, a key asset aboard Guardian-class patrol boats.

As part of the training, five senior officers, commanding officers, and executive officers from RSIPV Taro and RSIPV Gizo completed specialized command and control instruction. This component focused on the responsibilities of supervising and coordinating safe weapon operations during maritime security tasks.

Fourteen junior officers also participated in an operator-level training package. This included in-depth instruction on the safe handling, operation, and maintenance of the .50 caliber machine gun, as well as practical drills on loading, firing, and troubleshooting the system.

The training culminated in three days of sea-based exercises, conducted from 27 to 29 May 2-25. These exercises included both blank and live-fire scenarios to simulate real-world maritime operations and provide trainees with hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.

A formal certificate presentation ceremony was held on 30 May at the Aola patrol boat base.

Commander Sea Training (STG-DCP), Commander Paul Savage, and the Assistant Defence Advisor to Solomon Islands, Squadron Leader Brett Verity, presented the certificates and commended the officers for their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to strengthening regional maritime security.

Supervising Director, RSIPF Police Maritime Superintendent Nevol Soko expressed appreciation to the Australian government and STG-DCP for their continued support.

Director Soko says, “This training is another milestone in our capacity-building journey. The skills and knowledge gained by our officers directly contribute to our readiness and ability to safeguard Solomon Islands' maritime domain.”

The RSIPF Maritime Force remains committed to enhancing its capabilities through strong partnerships and ongoing professional development initiatives.