Minister of Defence Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon has announced that the government is making efforts to monitor Maldivian territorial waters via satellite technology. He made the statement during a special programme organized by Public Service Media (PSM).
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Ghassan emphasised President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's "Pro-Maldives" policy, which allows the country to build military relations with any nation willing to collaborate. He also said that the President is committed to fulfilling the responsibilities of the Maldives within the international community.
Additionally, Minister Ghassan raised concerns about international crimes occurring in the Maldives maritime zone, as it lies along a major global trade route. In response, he noted that the Maldives is enhancing its efforts, including expanding the air services of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). This year, he said that the government introduced Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) into military service, capable of both surveillance and defense operations from the air. He also highlighted that these measures reflect the government’s expanded management of the nation’s territory.
Furthermore, Minister Ghassan elaborated on President Muizzu's broad vision for the Maldives maritime zone, noting that young individuals from the Maldives Space Research Organisation is collaborating with the Ministry of Defence, as well as the US space agency. He revealed plans to use satellites for monitoring Maldivian territorial waters and the ongoing efforts to establish a satellite surveillance system in the near future. He also said that the initiative aligns with the President’s goal of ensuring peaceful passage through Maldivian waters and fulfilling the international obligations of the nation.
The government has placed special importance on enhancing the management of the country's maritime zone. Earlier this year, the MNDF established the Air Corps, which provides round-the-clock surveillance of Maldivian waters. Under the initiative, drones will be operated from MNDF area commands in both the northern and southern regions of the Maldives, enabling effective management of more than 900,000 square kilometers of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for the first time.