Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has developed a prototype emergency ventilator to be used in treating COVID-19 patients.
The ventilator was developed by MNDF service corps with the use of parts from broken electronic equipment. The work that began on April 18 was completed in 14 days.
Minister of Defence Mariya Didi, Chief of Defence Force Major Genereal Abdulla Shamaal and Vice Chief of Defence Force Brigadier General Abdul Raheem Abdul Latheef participated in the demonstration session and all praised the team on the timely work.
Defence Minister Mariya Didi congratulated MNDF for developing the ventilator and said the work represents the capability of the armed forces. She further said she hopes the ventilator will be in action soon despite it being the prototype. The prototype ventilator will be tested before using it in treating patients.
MNDF has been working on the frontlines to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19, provide necessary services and establish various facilities in the country.