Maldives procures drones from Turkey following defense agreement with China

In the wake of a defense agreement with China, the Maldives swiftly secured drones from Turkey to monitor its extensive exclusive economic zone in the Indian Ocean, as reported by a media outlet on Saturday.

The Maldivian government is anticipated to initiate drone operations within the coming week, although precise figures regarding the number of drones remain elusive, with no official confirmation from the Ministry of Defence or Foreign Ministry, according to the report.

President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, hinted at the acquisition of surveillance drones upon his return from China.

Citing a senior government official, news portal Adhadhu disclosed that military drones, procured for the first time under the current government’s agreement with a Turkish company, arrived in the Maldives on March 3. The drones are reportedly stationed at Noonu Maafaru International Airport.

Muizzu’s visit to Turkey marked his first foreign trip after assuming office as President in November. However, specifics regarding the number of drones acquired from Turkey remain undisclosed, while the government emphasizes its efforts to launch drone operations promptly.

The news portal referenced social media posts, suggesting that Turkish company Baykar supplied TB2 drones and requisite equipment to the Maldives.

Earlier in January, Muizzu made statements about Maldives’ defense capabilities after he visited China, alluding to the nation’s significant maritime territory and the necessity of safeguarding its exclusive economic zone.

On March 4, Muizzu announced plans to establish a 24/7 monitoring system for Maldivian waters by the end of the month, despite the vast expanse of its exclusive economic zone. The report indicated amendments to import duty waivers to ease the procurement of military drones.

Although this marks the first procurement of drones by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), the government has not officially disclosed details.

Previously, Adhadhu reported a budget allocation of $37 million (MVR 569.8 million) for drone procurement from the state’s contingency fund. The Defence Ministry emphasized the procurement of modern equipment to fortify MNDF’s capabilities.

During a press briefing, the Defence Ministry declined to divulge specifics of the drone procurement agreement. Similarly, the Foreign Ministry has refrained from commenting on the matter.

These developments precede the March 10 deadline set by the Maldivian government for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the island nation.

Recently, President Muizzu affirmed that no Indian military personnel, including those in civilian attire, would remain in the country after May 10, in line with agreements between the two nations.