RNZAF P-8A Poseidon monitors Pitcairn Islands EEZ for illegal fishing

The Pitcairn Island EEZ is a designated Marine Protected Area covering 834,000 square kilometres, closed to all extractive activities including commercial fishing. 

The UK’s Marine Management Organisation (MMO) and Joint Maritime Security Centre provides support to the Government of the Pitcairn Islands through remote surveillance of the area, recording vessels that may be carrying out Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing activities.

A MMO request came to New Zealand’s National Maritime Coordination Centre, which tasked the P-8A Poseidon to undertake surveillance of the area in late January.

Air Component Commander Air Commodore Andy Scott said it was a successful mission that supported New Zealand’s UK partners and the people of Pitcairn.

"The crew photographed 14 vessels and will provide that imagery to the MMO for assessment of whether there was any illegal activity. IUU fishing is a serious threat to regional stability and prosperity around the world, and our P-8A is a highly capable platform to deter this illegal activity. 

“Prior to starting the patrols, the aircraft also carried out a flight of the Pitcairn Island circumference and the capital Adamstown, showing our support to Pitcairn Islanders.”

Andrew Deary, Head of Compliance and Enforcement for the MMO, thanked the RNZAF.

“The MMO is hugely appreciative of the support and collaboration it has received from New Zealand. 

“Being able to bring this type of capability to bear is invaluable in ensuring compliance with the Pitcairn Marine Protected Area.” 

 The RNZAF’s four P-8A Poseidon aircraft replaced the retiring P-3K Orions and became operational in 2023. They are purpose built to patrol maritime environments and monitor vessels above and below the seas.