The Maldives effectively controls the most critical maritime choke points in the Indian Ocean, Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy announced, citing the vast number of vessels navigating territorial waters as a testament to the nation’s regional authority.
Speaking at a ceremony commemorating the 134th anniversary of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), Major General Ibrahim outlined strategic imperatives, noting that safeguarding land, airspace, outer space, and maritime domains remains a paramount constitutional duty.
In accordance with the Armed Forces Act, the military is obligated to defend its 200-mile exclusive economic zone and confront external security threats emerging beyond this boundary. Strategically positioned within a significant sector of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives witnesses an annual transit of approximately 70,000 to 90,000 vessels. "This remains the primary reason why the Maldivian domain is of profound significance to every region across the globe," Major General Ibrahim noted.
"Incidents of maritime piracy, terrorism, and illicit narcotics trafficking within the Indian Ocean, alongside unauthorised fishing and related threats occurring even an inch beyond our 200-mile boundary, inflict direct consequences upon the Maldives," Major General Ibrahim explained. To address these challenges, the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is prioritising policies to eliminate foreign influence and modernise military branches.
Under the defence policies established by President Muizzu, the government is procuring advanced technology to monitor terrestrial and aerial domains while expanding fire and rescue services nationwide to secure historical advancements in operational readiness.