The Guardian-Class Patrol Boat gifted by the Australian Government to the Maldives has arrived in the country, according to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
Upon its arrival at Hulhumalé Harbour, Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy and Australian High Commissioner to the Maldives David Jessup officially welcomed the vessel. Senior officers of the MNDF and family members of the crew also attended the ceremony.
The MNDF Coast Guard escorted the vessel into the Greater Malé Area as part of a ceremonial procession, followed by a water salute at the entrance to Hulhumalé Harbour.
According to MNDF, Austal Limited constructed the Guardian-Class Patrol Boat at the Henderson Shipyard in Perth, Australia. Australia provided the vessel under its Defence Cooperation Program, reflecting its continued support for maritime security cooperation and efforts to strengthen the Maldives’ sovereign maritime capabilities.
Before the vessel’s maiden voyage to the Maldives, the MNDF Coast Guard crew completed comprehensive training and familiarisation activities in Australia to ensure the safe operation and effective use of the patrol boat.
MNDF stated that the vessel will significantly enhance the Maldives’ maritime surveillance capabilities, strengthen deterrence and response efforts against illegal activities within its maritime zones, and improve search and rescue operations. The vessel is also expected to contribute to regional security and stability.
The official commissioning ceremony for the Guardian-Class Patrol Boat will take place at a later date, stated by MNDF.
