Australia to gift patrol boat and survey equipment to Maldives in defence cooperation push
Australia will gift a Guardian-class patrol boat and hydrographic equipment to the Maldives as part of a defence cooperation initiative aimed at enhancing maritime security in the Indian Ocean, the Australian government confirmed.
The vessel, currently under construction and expected to be completed by 2026, will support the Maldives’ efforts to increase patrol capacity across its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
According to a joint statement from Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, and Maldives Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, the gift marks a “significant step” in strengthening bilateral ties and regional maritime security.
“Australia is proud to partner with Maldives to support its maritime security capability,” Marles said. “Australia is pleased to gift a Guardian-class patrol boat to Maldives and will continue to seek opportunities to deepen our long-standing defence partnership.”
In addition to the vessel, Australia will provide a multi-beam echo sounder to improve the Maldives’ ability to map its ocean floor. The equipment is expected to contribute to maritime safety and support economic development, the statement added.
The Guardian-class patrol boat will be backed by a bespoke maintenance and sustainment package, developed in consultation with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), to ensure operational readiness once the vessel is delivered.
Defence Minister Maumoon welcomed the assistance, stating: “It is with deep appreciation and sincere gratitude that we acknowledge the generous gift of hydrographic equipment and a Guardian-class patrol boat from the Government of Australia.”
Australia’s Guardian-class patrol boats are part of a broader regional maritime security initiative, which supports partner nations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The government said the move aligns with its 2024 National Defence Strategy, which outlines a focus on cooperation across the northeastern Indian Ocean to promote regional stability.
