Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has stated air surveillance of territorial waters is vital for maintaining maritime safety and security of the Maldives.
Speaking to PSM News, MNDF Coast Guard Commandant Colonel Mohamed Saleem said the new Fisheries Act, which came into effect last year, has enabled the development of a better system to maintain territorial waters. However, Saleem noted the vast area of the Maldivian marine territory poses many challenges in effectively maintaining the safety of territorial waters.
Noting modern technology and resources are required for effective surveillance, Saleem said MNDF aims to establish air surveillance systems to ensure the maritime safety and security of the Maldives. In this regard, he noted satellite imagery will be used for surveillance very soon, under the assistance of United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). He said the equipment provided by UNODC will help to monitor all vessels operating within the Maldivian territory.
Colonel Saleem acknowledged the support received from local fishing vessels in intercepting unauthorized foreign vessels within the Maldivian territory. He expressed confidence the new surveillance systems established under the assistance of UNODC will facilitate faster interception of such foreign vessels.
The exclusive economic zone of the Maldives covers an area which is over 900,000 kilometres long. MNDF revealed 7 unauthorised vessels have intercepted in the exclusive economic zone of the Maldives so far this year.