The Chief of Defense Force, Lieutenant General Abdul Raheem Abdul Latheef has hailed the commencement of the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) Air Corps service as a significant step towards bolstering national security. Speaking at the inauguration of the MNDF Air Corps and the introduction of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Lieutenant General Abdul Latheef highlighted the crucial role this initiative plays in enhancing the country's defense capabilities.
Acknowledging the historical reliance on foreign parties for air services, Lieutenant General Abdul Latheef emphasised that the launch of the Air Corps service signifies a notable improvement in the Maldives' indigenous air capabilities. He stated with the introduction of the Air Corps service, the Maldives Army's air service will be greatly enhanced. He underscored the importance of modernising the military by providing UAVs with state-of-the-art equipment, thereby significantly augmenting the army's capabilities.
Lieutenant General Abdul Latheef affirmed that the Air Corps' service instills a sense of confidence in national security, showcasing the Maldives Army's capacity to safeguard the nation's independence and sovereignty. He reassured the public that the military resources allocated would be utilised optimally.
Moreover, he emphasised the symbolic significance of flying the national flag, representing freedom and sovereignty. He expressed confidence that this initiative would reinforce the belief among Maldivians in their ability to uphold independence and sovereignty, as well as showcase the capabilities of the Maldives Army.
The inauguration of the MNDF Air Corps and UAV service was officiated by President and Commander-in-Chief Dr. Mohamed Muizzu at a ceremony held at Maafaru International Airport. This service is poised to conduct all necessary air military operations to ensure the security of the Maldives' airspace.