Maldives establishes military air wing to deploy unmanned drone fleet

Maldives late Friday officially established its own military air wing and deployed three unmanned aerial vehicles into its service. 

During a ceremony held in Noonu Atoll Maafaru airport, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, launched the MNDF’s Air Corps and introduced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) into the service of the Defence Force.

Speaking during the ceremony, president said establishing the nation's first-ever Air Force and deploying UAVs in that force represents a powerful and important step in preserving the nation's independence and sovereignty.

The service will significantly contribute to maintaining the security and safety of the nation's maritime territories and deterring illicit activities, he said.

He added that the Maldives is an independent and sovereign nation and that surveillance of the Maldives' jurisdiction should not concern any external parties.

He further explained that this would not impede the Maldives’ close relations with all countries.

President Dr Muizzu announced new initiatives to strengthen the nation’s military capabilities. He revealed the initiative to mobilise resources to recondition neglected military resources and bring them up to a standard for military use and public service.

The President stated that the government would double the capacity of the Coast Guard, expand the Air Corps fleet, and enhance land-based vehicles and platforms.  

N. Maafaru has been designated as a base station and drones have been brought from Turkey this month. As many as three Bayraktar TB2 drones were displayed and deployed on Friday evening, with three more reportedly due to arrive from Turkey.