Re-fit of CIPPB Te Kukupa

The CIPPB Te Kukupa, a Pacific-class patrol boat, was commissioned in May 1989 to serve the Cook Islands Police Service. Over the years, it played a crucial role in maritime security and law enforcement within the region. To enhance its operational capabilities, the vessel underwent a re-fit, which included upgrades to its systems and equipment. This re-fit was essential for maintaining the patrol boat's effectiveness in addressing the challenges of maritime patrol, including illegal fishing, smuggling, and other transnational crimes that affect the Cook Islands and its surrounding waters. The re-fit aimed to ensure that the Te Kukupa could continue to fulfill its duties effectively, contributing to the safety and security of the Cook Islands' maritime domain. Despite the upgrades, the CIPPB Te Kukupa was eventually withdrawn from service as part of a strategic decision to replace it with a more advanced vessel. The Guardian-class patrol boat, CIPPB Te Kukupa II, was introduced to enhance the capabilities of the Cook Islands Police Service further. This transition reflects the ongoing commitment of the Cook Islands to bolster its maritime enforcement capabilities, ensuring that it can effectively manage its customs regulations and protect its territorial waters. The introduction of the new patrol boat in 2022 marks a significant advancement in the Cook Islands' maritime security framework, allowing for improved surveillance and response to maritime incidents.