China and US to Supply Drones to Maldives for Enhanced Maritime Monitoring

Customs Commissioner General Yoosuf Maniu Mohamed announced that China and the United States will be providing drones to the Maldives to enhance maritime monitoring capabilities.

Speaking before the 241-member parliamentary committee, Commissioner General Maniu revealed that both the Chinese and US governments have committed to supplying drones to aid in the surveillance of vessels entering Maldivian waters. This initiative is part of a broader effort to bolster national security and improve the monitoring of maritime activities.

"At present, there is no effective way to monitor vessels coming from outside our territory," Maniu said. "Drones can be deployed to monitor these vessels and identify any potential threats."

Commissioner General Maniu emphasized that the drones, once acquired, will be used jointly by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and customs. This collaborative effort is intended to maximize the operational capacity of the drones and ensure comprehensive coverage of the national waters.

"The joint operation between MNDF and customs will increase the drone quantity available to MNDF personnel, enhancing our overall surveillance capabilities," Maniu stated.

Currently, the monitoring of vessels entering Maldivian territory is conducted with the assistance of the MNDF Coast Guard. The introduction of drones is expected to significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of these operations.

This move marks a significant step forward in the Maldives' efforts to secure its maritime borders and ensure the safety and security of its territorial waters.