The Ministry of Defence and National Service is exploring ways to conduct parachute jump training in the Maldives for the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Special Forces.
Minister of Defence and National Service Hassan Rasheed discussed the initiative during a meeting with senior officials of Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL). The discussions focused on providing aviation resources required for MNDF airborne training and special operations, as well as ways to conduct military training in Maldivian airspace in collaboration with Island Aviation.
The Ministry of Defence said the meeting forms part of efforts by President and Commander-in-Chief of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), Dr Mohamed Muizzu, to strengthen the capabilities of the Maldivian military and secure new resources required for airborne operations.
The MNDF Special Forces is an elite unit established in 2009 and trained to conduct special operations, counter-terrorism operations and rescue missions. Its responsibilities include combating terrorism, rescuing hostages in dangerous situations and conducting high-risk tactical operations by land, sea and air.
Until now, Maldivian soldiers have completed basic and advanced parachute jump training in collaboration with the armed forces of friendly foreign countries.
The discussions come as the Government continues efforts to improve the standard and capabilities of the Maldivian military. Strengthening the armed forces and enabling Maldivians to take responsibility for their own security is one of President Dr Muizzu’s pledges.
Under this pledge, President Dr Muizzu introduced the MNDF Air Corps to the Maldivian military for the first time, giving the armed forces the capability to monitor the Maldives’ maritime territory from the air.
The Government continues to provide the Air Corps with the additional resources it requires while working to provide military personnel with training at the highest standards.