The Australian government has decided to donate a Guardian-class patrol vessel to the Maldives.
The announcement of this donation was made by Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, during his visit to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) headquarters, Bandaara Koshi, today. At a special ceremony held at Bandaara Koshi, the Letter of Exchange (LOE) regarding this matter was signed on behalf of the Australian government by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Honourable Richard Marles. On behalf of the Maldivian government, it was signed by the Minister of Defence, Honourable Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon.
Along with this new vessel, Australia is also set to provide a 'Multi-Beam Echo Sounder' to the Maldives. This is an instrument used for hydrographic surveys. According to a joint statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, this hydrographic equipment will enhance the Maldives' capability to map the seabed, ensure maritime safety and security, and pave the way for economic progress.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Defence Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon expressed gratitude to the Australian government for their decision to donate the Guardian-class patrol vessel and hydrographic equipment. The Defence Minister stated that the Guardian-class patrol vessel currently under construction is expected to enter service with the Maldivian military in April 2026, and that this assistance is a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between the two countries.
The Defence Minister also highlighted that this is a significant advancement in the government's efforts to strengthen the Maldives' maritime capabilities, in line with the pledge made by the President of the Maldives and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, to double the capacity of the Maldives Coast Guard within the next five years. Furthermore, the Defence Minister noted that with this assistance from Australia, a further step has been taken towards making the President's vision a reality.
Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Honourable Richard Marles, stated that Australia is proud to partner with the Maldives to enhance the country's maritime safety and security capabilities. He added that in accordance with the country's National Defence Strategy, Australia is working with partners across the northeast Indian Ocean to maintain regional security and stability.
Upon his arrival at the MNDF headquarters, Bandaara Koshi, Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, was presented with a Guard of Honour by the Maldivian military. He was welcomed at Bandaara Koshi by the Minister of Defence, Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, Chief of Defence Force, Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Vice Chief of Defence Force, Brigadier General Ahmed Ghiyas, and General Officers.
During the visit of Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Honourable Richard Marles, to Bandaara Koshi, bilateral discussions were held on further strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the areas of defence, security, and regional stability.
During his visit to the Maldives from June 1 to 2, he paid a courtesy call on the Vice President of the Maldives, Uz. Hussain Mohamed Latheef. He also visited and toured the Male' Hukuru Miskiy (Friday Mosque) and visited the November 3 Memorial. In addition, he visited the MNDF Coast Guard Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Villimale' and the area in Hulhumale' where Coast Guard vessels are berthed.
