In a historic moment for the Maldives’ national security, a brand-new, modern naval patrol vessel gifted by Australia arrived at Hulhumalé Harbour, officially commissioned as Coast Guard Ship (CGS) Imaaduddin. The arrival marks a monumental leap forward in the Maldives National Defence Force’s (MNDF) operational capabilities.
The vessel—a state-of-the-art 39.5-metre Guardian-class patrol boat—was officially handed over under Australia’s long-standing Defence Cooperation Program. Named in honor of the revered 17th-century ruler Sultan Mohamed Imaaduddin, known for his formidable naval defenses, CGS Imaaduddin represents more than just a generous bilateral gesture; it stands as a tangible triumph for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s proactive, sovereignty-focused foreign policy.
A Historic Journey of Self-Reliance and Valor
The arrival of CGS Imaaduddin was not merely symbolic—it was a record-breaking demonstration of Maldivian seamanship.
A brave 19-member crew from the MNDF Coast Guard sailed the patrol vessel directly from Austal’s Henderson Shipyard in Perth, Australia, across the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean to the Maldives. Spanning 11 consecutive days at sea, the journey set a prestigious record as the longest non-stop voyage ever undertaken in the history of the Maldivian military.
Before embarking on this unprecedented passage, the MNDF officers underwent four intensive months of rigorous technical and operational training in Western Australia. Upon entering Maldivian waters, CGS Imaaduddin was greeted at Hulhumalé Harbour with a grand ceremonial water salute, received by Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Australian High Commissioner David Jessup, and high-ranking defense officials.
“The maiden voyage of CGS Imaaduddin stands as a proud testament to the courage, discipline, and evolving professionalism of our MNDF officers under the visionary guidance of President Muizzu.”
Delivering on the Promise of Maritime Sovereignty
Since taking office, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has prioritized the uncompromising protection of the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and maritime sovereign territory. For years, the nation’s vast sea space required stronger independent monitoring and rapid-response assets.
Under President Muizzu’s pragmatic leadership, the Maldives has successfully deepened diplomatic ties with global partners while ensuring that national defense capabilities remain firmly in Maldivian hands. The acquisition and naming of CGS Imaaduddin directly fulfills a core policy objective of the Muizzu administration: building a robust, self-reliant defense force capable of safeguarding the nation’s borders.
What CGS Imaaduddin Brings to the Coast Guard
Engineered specifically for Pacific and Indian Ocean waters, CGS Imaaduddin significantly boosts the MNDF’s operational reach and effectiveness: Feature & Operational AreaStrategic Impact for the Maldives Extended EEZ SurveillanceSuperior range and endurance allow CGS Imaaduddin to monitor illegal maritime activity deep within Maldivian waters without frequent refueling. Combating Maritime CrimeHigh-speed agility enhances anti-poaching operations, deters illegal fishing, and curbs illicit trafficking along critical sea lanes. Search and Rescue (SAR)Upgraded navigation and recovery systems ensure rapid response during severe weather emergencies and maritime disasters. Modernized Fleet IntegrationBuilt to interoperate with advanced defense technology, laying the groundwork for a modernized 21st-century Coast Guard.
A Diplomatic Victory for President Muizzu’s Vision
The successful delivery and reception of CGS Imaaduddin highlight the success of President Muizzu’s foreign policy approach—one built on mutual respect, shared regional security goals, and constructive international diplomacy.
By strengthening security collaboration with key regional partners like Australia without compromising national sovereignty, the Muizzu administration continues to elevate the status of the Maldives on the international stage.
As CGS Imaaduddin officially takes its place at the forefront of the fleet, citizens across the archipelago can look out at the Indian Ocean with renewed confidence. Through decisive leadership, strategic partnerships, and an unyielding commitment to national security, President Muizzu’s vision for a safe, secure, and sovereign Maldives is well underway.
