Australia has today handed over the second batch of an SBD 25 million 61-vehicle locally-procured police fleet to the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF),
This initiative is part of a broader package of support valued at approximately SBD 100 million, which includes SBD 20 million for road improvements across Honiara.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, joined Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. Jimson Tanangada, and Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Hon. Peter Shanel Agovaka, to inspect the vehicles during a short handover, following a capability demonstration and vehicle procession through central Honiara. This second batch comprises 39 Ford Rangers, completing the full fleet of 61 police vehicles requested by the Solomon Islands Government.
Today’s event follows the handover ceremony of the first 22 vehicles on 25 August, where Prime Minister Hon. Jeremiah Manele, and five Cabinet Ministers, joined High Commissioner Hilton to mark the occasion. At the event, Prime Minister Manele hailed the support as the largest single vehicle handover of any partner since RAMSI – the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands.
“These vehicles are more than just transport – they are a direct capability uplift that will help RSIPF deliver on its mission to protect and serve the people of Solomon Islands, now and into the future, both in urban centres such as Honiara, and out in the provinces,” High Commissioner Hilton said.
High Commissioner Hilton emphasised Australia’s enduring commitment to Solomon Islands’ security and stability.
“Australia is Solomon Islands’ primary security partner. We’re pleased to contribute to a safe, secure and productive Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, to support the RSIPF with the tools they need to deliver effective policing during this important event, as well as the required upgrades to the event venues and to Honiara’s roads.”
The vehicles were procured and fitted out by local firm United Auto, supporting jobs for Solomon Islander salespeople, office staff, auto electricians, mechanics, graphic designers and printers. This procurement will see global company Ford Motor Company return to Solomon Islands via its local dealership United Auto after a long hiatus, demonstrating a broadening of the country’s automotive market.
High Commissioner Hilton highlighted Australia’s support for local economic development. “We’re just as pleased that this investment in Solomon Islands security is also creating real economic activity in Solomon Islands—generating jobs, supporting local businesses, and helping build a stronger, more resilient economy. From police to auto electricians, to graphic designers, this is about putting Solomon Islanders at the centre of the nation’s progress.”
The support aligns with the Solomon Islands National Security Strategy (2025–2028) and reflects the strength of the Solomon Islands–Australia security partnership.
Australia remains committed to standing alongside Solomon Islands as a trusted partner—supporting sovereign capabilities and working together for a secure, resilient and prosperous Pacific.
