As part of the government's ongoing efforts to strengthen the Maldives' modern military capabilities to defend the nation by land, sea, and air, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated the MNDF Air Corps and introduced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or drones, to military service.
Speaking after introducing these services, the President stated that this marks the beginning of a massive national endeavor for the safety and security of the Maldivian people, as well as for economic activities and human security. He added that, with the help of modern technology, the Maldives' maritime territory will henceforth be monitored by Maldivians.
"Previously, the way we had to do these things was by seeking the assistance of others, other parties, and other countries. That in itself is not an issue. At the time, we did not have that capacity. However, today, God willing, by monitoring our territory ourselves, our independence is assured. God willing, we are assured that we will no longer have to spend as much time as we previously did unable to locate someone in distress at sea," the President said.
The President stated that with the establishment of the Air Corps and the military's capabilities, God willing, many more capabilities will be added to the military in the coming days to protect the independence of the Maldives.
The Maldivian Air Force will be served by Maldivian soldiers trained in Turkey. Furthermore, Maldivian soldiers will be active in all aspects of operating the drones. These drones will be used to monitor the Maldives' maritime territory 24 hours a day. They will be utilized in surveillance operations conducted for missing persons in sea accidents and lost vessels. These drones are designed to be used even in the pitch dark of night. Therefore, even if a sea incident occurs during the night, the drones will be used in surveillance operations with the assistance of the Coast Guard.
