A new Coast Guard vessel donated by the Australian Government to the Maldives was officially commissioned into service on Monday evening.
The vessel arrived in the Maldives on 15 June and was commissioned by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu at a ceremony. It has been named “Imaduddin” in honour of Sultan Muhammad Imaduddin I, who played a key role in strengthening the Maldives’ defense.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chief of Defense Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy highlighted growing regional security challenges and said efforts are needed at national and international levels to protect the country’s sovereignty and interests. He said the Coast Guard plays a key role in law enforcement, maritime safety and security in Maldivian waters.
The vessel was acquired through cooperation between the Maldives and Australia to strengthen the country’s maritime security and defense capabilities. Built by Austal Ltd. at its Henderson shipyard in Perth, Australia, it is equipped with modern systems and technology for extended operations at sea.
Before it arrived, MNDF Coast Guard personnel underwent specialized training in Australia to operate the vessel.
The new vessel is expected to strengthen the Coast Guard’s ability to monitor Maldivian waters, respond to maritime incidents, prevent illegal activities at sea, and conduct search-and-rescue operations.
The MNDF has described the vessel as an important step in enhancing the Maldives’ maritime security and supporting regional stability. The Maldives has also received a military Coast Guard vessel from Türkiye and acquired drones to further strengthen its security capabilities.
