Australia is a buying a landing craft for 4.7 million US dollars which it will donate to Tonga.
The 30-metre craft will be delivered mid next year under a defence co-operation programme.
It will boost the Tongan military's capacity to reach remote communities for construction activities as well as respond to natural disasters such as cyclones.
The newspaper, The Australian, reports the contract for construction of the vessel has been awarded to Newcastle shipbuilder Forgacs.
Through the defence co-operation programme with Tonga, Australia will deliver a range of services in support of the vessel's operation, including engineering, technical and logistic support.
