PNGDF Maritime element conducts first in-country dry docking

HMPNGDS Gilbert Toropo being slipped at PNG Dockyard, Motukea. The exercise occurred in November 2025. (Image: Supplied)

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force's [PNGDF] Maritime Element, has conducted its first dry docking, on one of its four Guardian-class Patrol Boats in the country.

The PNGDF and Australian Defence Force in a statement said, the HMPNGS Gilbert Toropo, was recently dry docked at PNG Dockyard at Motukea, outside Port Moresby, where repairs and required maintenance was done.

They say that the boats usually undergo routine maintenance in Cairns, Australia, but this has now changed, under the PNGDF and ADF support.

Members of ADF, PNGDF and PNG Dockyards involved in the works on HMPNGDS Gilbert Toropo before the vessel was returned to the water. The exercise occurred in November 2025. (Image: Supplied)

HMPNGS Toropo underwent hull repairs and regular maintenance, which included upgrades to the air conditioning, engine, generator, sewerage, and fire-main service pump, as well as repainting of the anti-fouling below the waterline, before returning to the water, at the PNGDF Basilisk Naval Base, on Wednesday afternoon.

The work was managed and completed by the PNGDF Maritime Element, with the guidance and support from the Australian Defence Force’s Defence Cooperation Program and will enable the PNGDF to conduct its own works in future.