President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have inaugurated the new 10-story building of the Ministry of Defense. The building has been named “Dhoshimeyna” Building. After the inauguration, both leaders viewed a model of the building and were briefed about its services. This building was developed with assistance from the Indian government. Construction of this building began on February 19, 2014. It is a 10-story building that will house the Ministry of Defense and specifically provide Coast Guard services.
The Coast Guard service in the Maldives was established 45 years ago, starting on January 1, 1980. The Coast Guard conducts operations both at sea and in the air. The Coast Guard’s responsibility is to protect and safeguard the Maldives’ sea and air territories. This includes protecting and securing the Maldives’ exclusive economic zone and rescuing people and goods in distress at sea. The Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard is tasked with the role of a conventional navy in Maldivian waters and is responsible for maritime civil defense and maritime safety and security, as mandated by the Armed Forces Act and other national laws.
The Coast Guard plans and conducts its sea and air operations through operational commands established in four areas dividing the Maldivian territory. Each area command now has operationally subordinationally subordinate Coast Guard squadrons. A Maritime Rescue Coordination Center has also been established within the Coast Guard to provide search and rescue services for dangerous incidents occurring in Maldivian waters and international waters where Maldivian assistance is required.
The Coast Guard is also active in emergency medical evacuations, transporting patients between islands across islands across the Maldives. To increase military presence at sea and conduct special operations, a special force called the “Special Boat Squadron” has also been established.
