Turkey Donates Military Ship to Boost MNDF Naval Strength
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has officially received a military ship donated by Turkey, marking a major step in strengthening the country’s naval capacity.
The Dogan-class missile boat, TCG Volcan (P-343), was handed over on Friday night during a ceremony held at the Maldives Ports Limited area in Hulhumale’. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu attended the event, underscoring the importance his administration places on expanding the nation’s defence resources.
Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy described the new vessel as the most powerful addition to the MNDF’s fleet. He highlighted that its weapons systems and firepower place it in a league of its own compared to the Coast Guard’s current ships.
“In terms of weapons and capability, this is a very different type of naval ship than what we have had before,” Hilmy said, noting that the vessel represents a significant leap forward for the Maldives’ maritime security.
Although the ship is 45 years old, it underwent recent repairs and was reclassified as a test and training vessel in 2023. Over the past few months, MNDF officers have received specialized training in Turkey to prepare for its operation and maintenance.
The Dogan-class ships were designed by German company Lürssen Werft and were among the first Turkish naval vessels equipped with Harpoon anti-ship missiles. During the late 20th century, they played a crucial role in strengthening Turkey’s naval presence.
The TCG Volcan now joins the Maldivian fleet, bringing not only additional firepower but also a symbol of growing ties between Maldives and Turkey.
The ship donation follows a defence agreement signed between the two governments, which includes both resource support and training opportunities for Maldivian forces. Since taking office, President Muizzu has prioritized upgrading the country’s defence capabilities, with drones and other advanced equipment already introduced into service.
President Muizzu’s first state visit as head of state was to Turkey, where defence talks topped the agenda. That visit paved the way for several military deals, including the purchase of Turkish drones now in active use across the country.
Speaking on Independence Day earlier this year, President Muizzu reiterated his firm position on safeguarding national security, saying that “every square inch of this country will be looked after by Maldivians themselves.”
The arrival of the TCG Volcan signals not only an upgrade to the MNDF’s operational capacity but also the Maldives’ intention to take a more independent role in defending its territory while building strategic partnerships abroad.