Exercise Bougainville 2026 has moved into a new phase as the simulated crisis develops from a natural disaster into civil unrest, looting and growing conflict over essential supplies.

The exercise has triggered the activation of Deployable Condition 2 (DEPCON 2) – Internal Security, with the Fiji Police Force taking the lead in the response.

The scenario is currently being managed through a Command Post Exercise at the Divisional Commander West Command Centre.

Participating agencies are working together to assess the situation, coordinate their responses and identify measures needed to help stabilise affected communities across the Western Division.

Exercise Bougainville 2026 is also testing how agencies coordinate, make decisions and maintain operational readiness while responding to a complex and rapidly changing national crisis.