Defence Ministry Partners With Island Aviation to Launch Local Parachute Training

The Ministry of Defence and National Service is exploring the establishment of domestic parachute jump training to enhance the operational capabilities of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Special Forces. Minister of Defence and National Service Hassan Rasheed led discussions with senior officials from Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL) to secure the necessary aviation resources for airborne training and special operations. The initiative aims to utilize Maldivian airspace for military training through a strategic collaboration with the national aviation provider. This move aligns with the broader agenda of President and Commander-in-Chief Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to modernize the Maldivian military and reduce reliance on external resources for specialized training. Until now, MNDF personnel have relied exclusively on partnerships with foreign militaries to complete basic and advanced parachute certifications. The MNDF Special Forces, an elite unit established in 2009, is tasked with high-stakes missions including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and tactical operations across land, sea, and air. Localizing this training is expected to increase the frequency and agility of the unit's readiness exercises. The push for domestic capability follows the recent introduction of the MNDF Air Corps, a milestone that granted the Maldives the ability to monitor its own maritime territory from the air. By integrating localized airborne training, the government seeks to fulfill President Muizzu’s pledge to strengthen national security and enable the Maldives to manage its own defense independently. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing the Air Corps and Special Forces with the high-standard resources and training required to meet evolving security challenges in the region.