President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has authorised the establishment and operationalisation of the Maldives National Defence Force’s (MNDF) first Air Corps station, marking a historic step in the nation’s defence modernisation efforts.

The presidential decree directs the MNDF Air Corps to activate the station to support aerial surveillance, monitor the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), and carry out strategic operational mandates.

It also mandates continuous 24-hour airspace monitoring, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening national security and territorial integrity.

This initiative forms part of President Muizzu’s broader defence reform agenda aimed at modernising the armed forces. Minister of Defence Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon described the move as a long-overdue response to the need for a more capable and resilient national defence framework.

Speaking at the Victory Day ceremony held in Malé to commemorate the military’s successful defence against the 1988 coup attempt, Minister Ghassan credited President Muizzu’s direct leadership for revitalising defence reforms.

He said the president has drawn a “thick red line” around the protection of the Maldives’ independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, adding that the transformation of the MNDF is being guided by a comprehensive long-term strategic plan under the president’s active supervision “day and night.”

Minister Ghassan also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the military’s operational branches, noting that the MNDF Marine Corps continues to enhance its readiness, while initiatives to double the capability of the Coast Guard are well underway.

He concluded by urging citizens to take pride in the military’s growing strength, describing this year’s Victory Day as a powerful symbol of the renewed confidence and strategic direction of the Maldivian armed forces.