The Maldives government has agreed to bring in Indian "defence platforms" contrary to its pledge to stop operating Indian military aircraft and remove Indian troops.
A joint press release publicised by the President's Office after official talks between President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that "defence platforms and assets" will be provided to the Maldives.
"To support Maldives with provisioning of defence platforms and assets to augment capabilities of MNDF [Maldives National Defence Force] as well as that of the Government of Maldives in advancing its maritime and security requirements in line with its national priorities," the press release read.
Two Indian helicopters and an Indian Dornier jet are currently stationed in the Maldives.
During the campaign for last year's presidential election, Muizzu pledged to remove Indian soldiers from the Maldives. In order to fulfil the pledge, discussions were held with India and the soldiers who operate the helicopters and the Dornier were replaced with civilian employees of a company under India's Defense Ministry.
It is not clear whether new aircraft or vessels will be provided under the agreement of whether new soldiers will be sent to the Maldives.
According to the joint press release, India also reached an agreement with Maldives to provide radar systems and other equipment.
The People's National Congress (PNC), now in power, accused India of planning to influence Maldives' sovereignty through military aircraft and soldiers during last year's presidential election campaign and launched the 'India Out' movement.
But less than a year since assuming office, Muizzu has changed his tone and is now building ties with India.
