Russia equips Fiji Military with $19 million worth of weapons

Fiji's Minister of Defence Timoci Natuva has confirmed that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces has recently received about $19 million (US$8.8 million) worth of guns and ammunition from Russia.

Natuva was responding to a question from government MP Ashneel Sudhakar to elaborate on the high profile military consignment.

He said the shipment is part of a memorandum signed by the Ministry of Defence and the Russian government in 2013.

Opposition Member Salote Radrodro asked Natuva why the cost of the consignment was not included in the 2015 budget.

Natuva said the cost was approved after the Budget address last year.

Meanwhile, Islands Business reports about 20 Russian soldiers - believed to be weapons experts - arrived in Fiji today under tight security.

The soldiers landed at Nadi International Airport on a Korean Airlines flight and were whisked through the VIP channels normally used for diplomats and dignitaries.

They were met by Fiji Military Forces officers and driven away in waiting transport.

Late last month Army Commander, Rear-Admiral Viliame Naupoto, indicated that Russian experts would be in Fiji to train local troops on weapons and special equipment received in January.

The army received more than 20 containers of unspecified arms, ammunition and equipment from Russia, ostensibly to strengthen the capabilities of troops on peacekeeping duties.

Fiji's last major weapons overhaul was after the 1987 coup with the purchase of Korean K2 assault rifles and K3 light machine guns to replace the US-manufactured M16 and M60.

While the FMF has been tight-lipped on its recent acquisition, it is understood Fiji's peacekeepers will now be equipped with AK47 assault rifle and the Pecheneg light machine gun.

SOURCE: FBC NEWS