The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Drone Support Unit (DSU) is bringing valuable operational experience and specialist skills back to Solomon Islands following deployments supporting major security operations in Palau and Tuvalu.
Supported through the RSIPF and Australian Federal Police Policing Partnership Program (RAPPP), the deployments gave RSIPF officers the opportunity to work alongside regional and international policing partners and apply their specialist drone skills in complex operational environments.
In August and September 2026, RSIPF DSU personnel deployed to Palau as part of the Pacific Policing Support Group (PPSG) for the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting. Officers provided aerial surveillance and operational support, monitored key venues and helped strengthen security arrangements for visiting leaders and delegations.
The team also monitored drone activity, established live video streaming to the Police Operations Centre and worked with the Palau Bureau of Public Safety, PPSG command staff and United States Army counter-drone teams. The deployment received positive recognition from Palau and regional partners.
In October 2026, RSIPF DSU personnel deployed to Tuvalu in support of PPSG operations associated with PRE-COP31. The team conducted venue surveillance, security assessments and aerial monitoring, while also supporting communications and information sharing.
Working with Tuvalu Police and Tuvalu Aviation, the team provided live aerial footage to assist commanders and security planners. The deployment also gave RSIPF personnel further experience operating with regional partners during a major international event.
The Palau and Tuvalu deployments demonstrate the growing contribution RSIPF officers are making to regional security. They also provided practical experience that can be applied during major events, emergency responses, national security operations and other policing activities in Solomon Islands.
The success of the deployments reflects the professionalism and technical expertise of RSIPF officers. It also shows that Solomon Islands is increasingly contributing specialist policing skills and experience to security efforts across the Pacific.
