Australia gifts navy vessel to Maldives as grant aid
A brand-new Coast Guard vessel gifted by the Australian government has received a warm welcome at the Hulhumale harbor upon its arrival in the Maldives. Scheduled to officially enter service this July, the vessel is expected to significantly bolster maritime surveillance and security within Maldivian waters. According to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), its crew has already completed the specialized training required to operate the new craft.
The Australian-donated naval vessel, provided under a grant assistance program, has docked at the Hulhumale' harbor. | MNDF
The Maldivian government has successfully brought its newly acquired naval vessel from Australia to the Maldives, marking the longest sea voyage ever undertaken in the history of the Maldivian military.
Upon its arrival at the Hulhumalé harbor following a voyage from Perth, Australia, the vessel was officially welcomed by the Chief of Defence Force, Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, and the Australian High Commissioner to the Maldives, David Jessup.
The vessel entered Hulhumalé harbor accompanied by a ceremonial escort from the MNDF Coast Guard, in accordance with maritime traditions. Upon its arrival, it was honored with a traditional water salute. The vessel is currently docked at the Hulhumalé harbor area designated for Coast Guard ships.
The MNDF stated that the vessel is a brand-new craft built by Austal Limited at the Henderson Shipyard in Perth, Australia. It was gifted under the Australian Defence Cooperation Program as a symbol of the strong and enduring partnership between Australia and the Maldives.
Furthermore, the MNDF stated that prior to the vessel's arrival in the Maldives, MNDF Coast Guard crews completed specialized operational training and familiarization trials in Australia.
MNDF stated that the vessel, which is scheduled to be commissioned and officially enter service in July this year, will significantly enhance the nation's maritime surveillance capabilities. It is further expected to bolster efforts in curbing illegal maritime activities and strengthen search and rescue operations at sea.
MNDF stated that this marks a significant advancement in the role the Maldives plays in maintaining regional security and stability.
