New Caledonia Politics: Pro-France Virginie Ruffenach has been elected president of the Congress of New Caledonia, with anti-independence parties regaining control after a vote backed by the Oceanian Awakening movement—an alliance that reshapes the balance over the territory’s key political and budget guidelines. Maritime Security Procurement: France has ordered 24 new coastal patrol vessels for the Maritime Gendarmerie under the VGMAR programme, with five ships earmarked for overseas territories including New Caledonia, and first deliveries expected from 2029. Satellite Connectivity Trial: OPT New Caledonia is partnering with US firm Lynk to test direct-to-device satellite services, already proving SMS connectivity in a mobile-coverage gap area, with a new trial planned for late 2026. Energy Investment in the Pacific: Palau’s solar-plus-storage project is expanding with an additional 19.8MWh battery system, lifting total capacity to 15MWac/32.7MWh and accelerating the shift away from diesel generation. Climate & Ocean Risks: A WMO report warns the South-West Pacific is seeing hotter, more acidic seas, marine heatwaves and rising sea levels—threatening fisheries, ecosystems and coastal communities. Aviation & Tourism: Aircalin is updating its logo ahead of the December arrival of its first Airbus A350-900, with “New Caledonia” integrated into the brand identity.