The US Montana National Guard and the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) have launched the joint military exercise, "Black Marlin."

The exercise is scheduled to continue until May 28. The training will include five SMEE (Subject Matter Expert Exchange) programs. These include intelligence, logistics, medical, EOD, and infantry-related SMEE.

MNDF said the Infantry SMEE will be conducted in Laamu Kadhdhoo while all other SMEEs will be conducted in Male'.

A "field grade exchange program" is also planned as part of the training. MNDF said the program would allow staff officers to better understand their responsibilities, the military planning process and training management.

Chief of Defense Force, Major General Ibrahim Hilmy inaugurated the joint exercises at the Bandaarakoshi on Sunday.

Adjutant General of Montana National Guards Major General John Peter Hronek II also attended the ceremony.