The Ministry of Defence is procuring modern “platforms and equipment” for the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) to defend and protect the Maldives by road, sea and air.

Adhadhu yesterday reported that the government had signed an agreement with a Turkish company to purchase military drones to patrol the country’s waters, with USD 37 million (MVR 569.8 million) allocated from the state’s contingency budget.

But the government, the Ministry of Finance and the MNDF could not be reached for comment.

In a statement issued yesterday evening, the Defence Ministry said the MNDF has the legal responsibility to protect Maldives territory and people and conduct disaster prevention and search and rescue at sea.

The statement did not mention any agreements made with a Turkish company for military drone purchases.

The Defence Ministry added that international treaties to which Maldives is a party have elevated the duty of the MNDF to prevent maritime crime, protect fishing grounds and rescue people from incidents at sea.

"It is a top priority of the Commander in Chief of the Armed Force President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to build the National Defence Force into a modern military capable of fulfilling this duty and responsibility, and capable of facing the security challenges and any threats that may arise in the changing security environment," it read.

The ministry said it was working to acquire equipment on the advice of the National Security Council. The council is presided over by the President. The other members of the committee are Vice President, the Attorney General, four ministers and the Chief of Defence Force.

This statement comes as efforts are underway for the removal of Indian troops from Maldives territory. The government has proposed to remove the Indian troops by March 15. They are currently in the Maldives for the operation and maintenance of two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft.