The mission began with an evacuation training exercise for nationals in Tubuai, in the Austral Islands archipelago, in conjunction with the local branch of the Adapted Military Service Regiment (RSMA) . FS Prairial provided medical and logistical assistance in addition to securing the affected local populations, played by RSMA trainees. This exercise strengthens and demonstrates the ability of the Armed Forces in French Polynesia (FAPF) to intervene and provide a rapid response in remote islands of Polynesia in the event of a natural disaster.
Following this training, the FS Prairial sailed to the South Pacific where it patrolled international waters as part of the Forum Fisheries Agency , the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency. Its mission was to detect, report and apprehend illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing activities in the South Pacific. During its deployment, the FS Prairial called at the Cook Islands and the Marshall Islands and thus strengthened ties with local authorities. In addition, the US Coast Guard patrol vessel Frederick Hatch ‘s visit to the Marshall Islands gave the FS Prairial the opportunity to participate in joint exercises, particularly in fisheries law enforcement. These exercises allowed the two crews to exchange methods and strengthen their cooperation in the fight against illegal fishing.
In total, the FS Prairial sailed more than 7,900 nautical miles (approximately 14,693 km ) during which the crew trained to conduct humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations, patrolled the French Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) and those of neighboring Pacific countries, and strengthened cooperation with partner countries in the area.
The French Polynesian Armed Forces (FAPF) constitute a joint pre-positioned force with a predominantly maritime focus. The FAPF’s primary mission is to ensure France’s sovereignty in the Asia-Pacific region. They confirm its status as a sovereign, coastal nation, committed to regional stability. Approximately 900 soldiers are engaged in maritime security, fisheries policing, and combating illicit trafficking. They are also able to respond to security or environmental crises at short notice. The FAPF has specific expertise in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), which they regularly share with South Pacific countries.