The Royal Fijian Military Forces of the Republic of Fiji Islands provide an infantry battalion to the Multinational Force and Observers and have done so since the beginning of the Multinational Force and Observers mission in 1982. The Battalion's mission is to observe and report all activities in the Northern Sector of Zone C in accordance with the Treaty and Protocol.
Fijian Islanders serve a one-year tour of duty, with approximately one-quarter of the Fijian Battalion rotating every three months. Many of the Fijian Islanders have served multiple tours with the Multinational Force and Observers as well as having served in other peacekeeping forces like UNIFIL. This experience, combined with their military acumen, spirit and professionalism makes them a significant asset to the MFO.
The Battalion has a battalion Headquarters Company, a Headquarters Company and three infantry companies for an authorized strength of 338 personnel. The Battalion provides twelve soldiers to support the Force Headquarters staff and eleven in other ancillary positions throughout the Force in the Sinai.
Logistical support for the three Rifle Companies is coordinated through the Headquarters Company. The Battalion Headquarters Company provides all of the administrative support aspects for the Battalion. FIJIBATT maintains ten remote sites--six checkpoints and four observation posts-- and mans two temporary observation posts 24-hours a day as well as conducting day and night temporary observation and vehicle patrols. To achieve its observe and report mission, the Battalion deploys two Rifle Companies within the FIJIBATT Area of Operations (AO). The FIJIBATT AO includes the area of deployment of an Egyptian Border Guard Force pursuan to Agreed Arrangements signed on 1 September 2005. Each Rifle Company is responsible for the continuous manning of Checkpoints and Observation Posts, the conduct of motorized patrols and temporary observation posts within their respective sectors.
Record of Achievement
The Fijian Contingent has a distinguished record in participating and winning many of the inter-contingent sporting activities organized through the Morale Support Program. They are also acknowledged as a predominant competitor with a proud history of victories in the bi-annual Force Skill at Arms Competition.
The Royal Fijian Military Band provides excellent support to MFO parades and other significant activities. They are an integral part of the Battalion and are a clear boost to Force morale. In 1998 the band had the honor of being invited to Scotland to perform in the Edinburgh Military Tattoo.