The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has successfully intercepted a foreign vessel operating illegally in Maldivian waters, thanks to surveillance conducted by a drone from the newly established MNDF Air Corps.

The operation, carried out by the MNDF Coast Guard Special Boat Squadron following the drone’s detection, highlights the island nation’s strengthened maritime security capabilities.

Specific details regarding the foreign vessel have not yet been released.

In a related crackdown on illegal activities, the MNDF Coast Guard also seized two Sri Lankan fishing boats operating unlawfully within the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) on the night of 5 November, approximately 137 nautical miles off the east coast of Foththeyomuli, Vaavu Atoll.

The successful operations underscore the strategic role of the MNDF Air Corps, which was officially established by Presidential Decree on 15 March 2024.

Tasked with overseeing all air military operations necessary to safeguard Maldivian airspace, the Air Corps has significantly enhanced the MNDF’s ability to monitor national waters around the clock.

Equipped with armored unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the Air Corps can conduct continuous surveillance flights lasting up to 20 hours at speeds of 220 km per hour, as well as perform search and rescue operations in total darkness.

This technological advancement marks a major upgrade from previous maritime security measures, when monitoring the vast Maldivian waters relied solely on Coast Guard vessels, which faced considerable logistical challenges.