The United States has handed over a shipment of special operations equipment to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), further strengthening defense cooperation between the two nations.

The handover ceremony took place last night at the Bandaara Koshi Auditorium, where U.S. Ambassador to the Maldives Hugo Yon formally presented the equipment to Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy.

According to the MNDF, the donated package includes combat diving gear, personal equipment, and other operational items intended for use by the MNDF Special Forces and Special Operations Group.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Yon underscored the growing partnership between the U.S. and the Maldives, noting that Washington remains committed to supporting Maldivian security and will continue to assist in the future.

Major General Hilmy, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the U.S. government for the contribution, highlighting that the new equipment will enhance MNDF’s operational readiness and overall effectiveness. He described the support as a significant step forward in strengthening the nation’s defense capabilities.

The MNDF emphasized that the donation is part of ongoing efforts to deepen Maldives–U.S. defense ties and to bolster collaboration on regional security. Officials noted that the new equipment will substantially boost special operations capabilities, helping safeguard the Maldives and contribute to wider regional stability.