Australia Hands Over Guardian-Class Patrol Vessel to Maldives
Australia hands over patrol vessel to MNDF | Photo: MNDF
The Australian Government has officially handed over a Guardian-class patrol vessel to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), marking a key development in defence cooperation between the two countries.
The handover ceremony was held at HMAS Stirling Naval Base in Perth and was attended by senior officials from both nations.
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The vessel was first announced by Richard Marles during his official visit to the Maldives in June 2025, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral defence ties.
The MNDF stated that the vessel will enhance its patrolling capabilities and improve its capacity to respond to maritime threats and challenges across Maldivian waters. Australian officials also underscored the importance of continued cooperation in maintaining regional security and stability.
The MNDF crew assigned to the vessel will undergo training in Australia while the vessel completes sea trials, ahead of its planned delivery to the Maldives next month.
