Continuing India’s capacity building assistance in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Day 02 of his three-day visit, handed over a Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) and a Landing Craft Assault ship to the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF). In Sri Lanka, Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal V. R. Chaudhari donated AN-32 transport aircraft propellers to Commander Sri Lanka Air Force at Katunayake Air Base.
“India has emerged as a leading defence exporter in recent years. A defence manufacturing ecosystem has been created which has the advantage of abundant technical manpower. We produce world-class equipment to meet not only our own needs, but also for exports. India offers an enhanced defence partnership to friendly foreign countries, that is accommodative of their national priorities and capacities,” Mr. Singh said at the formal handover ceremony. “We wish to create symbiotic relationships where we can learn from each other, grow together and create a win-win situation for all. India’s commitment to support the Maldives will only get stronger with time.”
