The US First Battalion Fifth Security Force Assistance Brigade and the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) have commenced training to enhance the capacity of the Maldivian military.
MNDF said that the training, titled Exercise Black Merlin 22-2, which began on May 14 at MNDF Central Area Command, Kadhdhoo in Laamu Atoll will be concluded on June 16. In the training, medical, marksmanship, counter-improvised explosive device (IED), breaching exercises, and close-quarter battles will be conducted by the Marine Corps from the Special Operations Group (SOG). As such, MNDF weapons and ammunition will be used as simulations during the training.
Exercise Black Merlin is aimed at training the military for operational tasks, enhancing the capabilities of military personnel, and identifying and strengthening the operational readiness and capability of the military.