Australia to Donate Guardian-Class Patrol Boat to the Maldives, Strengthening Maritime Security and Bilateral Ties

The Australian Government has announced it will donate an Australian-built Guardian-class Patrol Boat to the Maldives, marking a significant milestone in the defence partnership between the two nations.

The announcement was made today in a joint press release by Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, and the Maldives Minister of Defence, Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon. They described the initiative as a key step in enhancing the Maldives’ capability to safeguard its sovereign waters and contribute to maritime security across the Indian Ocean.

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“The Guardian-class Patrol Boat will provide Maldives a more persistent presence in its vast Exclusive Economic Zone to deter, detect and disrupt illegal maritime activities,” the statement read.

Alongside the vessel, Australia will also provide a multi-beam echo sounder to the Maldives. This advanced hydrographic equipment will support the country’s efforts to map its ocean floor—enhancing maritime safety and unlocking potential avenues for economic development.

The donation underscores both nations’ shared commitment to regional security, stability, and prosperity. The Guardian-class vessel is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in 2026. Australia and the Maldives will work closely to develop a long-term maintenance and sustainment plan to ensure the vessel’s continued operational readiness.

Earlier today, Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef met with Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles MP at the President’s Office earlier today. Their discussions focused on strengthening defence cooperation and exploring opportunities for collaboration in tourism. Both leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to environmental protection and addressing the pressing challenges of climate change.