Australia will gift a Guardian-class Patrol Boat to the Maldives, further deepening bilateral defence cooperation and enhancing maritime security across the Indian Ocean, both countries announced today. The patrol vessel—built in Australia and expected to be delivered in 2026—will significantly boost the Maldives’ ability to monitor its vast exclusive economic zone, combat illegal maritime activity, and conduct search and rescue operations in surrounding waters.
“Australia is proud to partner with the Maldives to support its maritime security capability,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles. “In line with our National Defence Strategy, we are working with partners across the Northeast Indian Ocean to maintain regional security and stability.”
Australia will also provide the Maldives with a multi-beam echo sounder—an advanced hydrographic system that will help the island nation map its ocean floor, promote maritime safety, and unlock new economic development opportunities.
In addition to delivering the new assets, Australia will work closely with the Maldivian defence authorities to develop a tailored maintenance and sustainment package, ensuring the patrol boat remains mission-ready for years to come.
The patrol vessel, currently under construction and set for completion in 2026, will bolster the Maldives’ ability to patrol its vast exclusive economic zone (EEZ), deter illegal maritime activity, and strengthen its search and rescue capabilities.
“This is a significant milestone in our bilateral relationship and a concrete step towards supporting regional stability,” said Marles. “Australia is proud to work with partners like the Maldives to ensure a secure, peaceful, and prosperous Indian Ocean.”
The announcement was made jointly with Maldives Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, who welcomed the donation as a key step towards President Mohamed Muizzu’s vision of doubling the strength of the Maldives Coast Guard.
In addition to the patrol boat, Australia will also provide a multi-beam echo sounder—a sophisticated hydrographic instrument that will enable the Maldives to map its ocean floor, enhance maritime safety, and support sustainable economic development.
“Our nations are bound by a mutual commitment to the safety and security of the seas,” said Maumoon. “The generous gift of a Guardian-class Patrol Boat and hydrographic equipment is a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between our countries.”
Australia will also collaborate with Maldivian authorities to develop a long-term maintenance and sustainment package for the vessel, ensuring its operational readiness and longevity.
The donation supports Australia’s National Defence Strategy, which focuses on partnerships throughout the Northeast Indian Ocean to enhance regional security and resilience in light of increasing strategic competition, according to a statement from the Australian National Defence.
Team BharatShakti
