The United States has donated additional maritime equipment to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), strengthening its coastal patrol and operational capabilities.
The donation was handed over by US Ambassador to the Maldives Hugo Yon at a ceremony held Monday at MNDF headquarters in Hulhumale'. Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy accepted the items on behalf of the MNDF.
The US provided four RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats), a RIB shelter, and two ramps. These assets were granted under the US Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program and the Building Partnership Capacity (BPC) initiative.
RIBs are lightweight, high-performance patrol boats with rigid hulls and inflatable sides, widely used by military and rescue forces for their speed, stability, and durability, especially in coastal and near-shore operations.
From the event held to hand over military aid to the MNDF from US, November 10, 2025. (Photo/MNDF)
The ceremony was attended by Vice Chief of Defence Force Brigadier General Ahmed Ghiyas, along with senior MNDF officers. Major General Hilmy expressed gratitude to the American people for their continued support in enhancing the Maldives’ defense capabilities.
This marks the second major donation from the US in recent months. In September, the US government also provided special operations equipment to the MNDF.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has emphasized the importance of strengthening the country’s defense forces, and the MNDF continues to expand its operational readiness through international partnerships.