Maldives purchases drones from Turkey to patrol high seas

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Days after the Maldives finalized a defense agreement with China for non-lethal weaponry, the Indian Ocean archipelago has reportedly acquired drones from Turkey to monitor its extensive exclusive economic zone, according to a media report released on Saturday.

While the Maldives government is anticipated to commence drone operations within the coming week, specific details regarding the quantity of drones obtained remain ambiguous. Neither the Maldives’ Ministry of Defence nor its Foreign Ministry has officially confirmed this development, as per the report.

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President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, hinted at the government’s intent to procure surveillance drones upon returning from China. Citing a senior government official involved in the matter, news portal Adhadhu revealed that military drones have been introduced to the Maldives for the first time following an agreement with a Turkish company. The delivery of drones to the Maldives took place on March 3, with the drones currently stationed at Noonu Maafaru International Airport.

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The relationship between the Maldives and India has soured since President Muizzu’s ascension to power, marked by an anti-India stance. In his inaugural presidential address earlier this month, Muizzu announced plans for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives by March 10, with further withdrawals slated before May 10.

Turkey was President Muizzu’s inaugural foreign visit after assuming office in November. However, the precise number of drones procured from Turkey under the agreement remains uncertain, despite government officials indicating preparations for imminent drone operations within the next week.

While the Maldives government has refrained from issuing official statements regarding the drones, Adhadhu noted that during a press conference on Wednesday, inquiries were made regarding the country’s capacity to operate such drones. However, Defense Ministry officials declined to provide a direct response, citing ongoing efforts to bolster capabilities.

Citing social media posts, Adhadhu asserted that Turkey’s Baykar company supplied TB2 drones and associated equipment to the Maldives.