In a significant development marking the deepening of bilateral ties, Australia has announced the gifting of a Guardian-class Patrol Boat to the Maldives. 

The initiative, revealed by Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, alongside Maldives’ Minister of Defence, Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, underscores both nations’ commitment to enhancing regional maritime security.

According to the Defence Ministry, the patrol vessel which is currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2026, is expected to strengthen the Maldives’ capacity to safeguard its territorial waters and monitor its vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The added capability will assist in deterring, detecting, and disrupting illegal maritime activities in the Indian Ocean.

In addition to the patrol boat, Australia is set to provide a multi-beam echo sounder to support hydrographic surveying efforts. 

This advanced equipment, along with capacity-building initiatives, will enable the Maldives to map and manage its ocean floor more effectively, promoting maritime safety and supporting economic development.

The Defence Ministry noted that this move represents a milestone in Australia-Maldives defence cooperation and reinforces a shared vision for security, stability, and prosperity in the region.

Australia will also collaborate closely with Maldivian authorities to establish a long-term maintenance and sustainment plan for the vessel, ensuring its operational readiness for years to come.