Maldives do not have people capable of flying India-supplied aircraft, Defense Minister discloses

MALDIVES: Defense Minister Ghassan Maumoon stated in a press conference addressing the withdrawal of Indian Army from Maldives that the Maldivian army lacks pilots proficient in flying the three fighter jets provided by India. Maumoon openly disclosed this, acknowledging that within the Maldivian National Defense Force, there is no one capable of operating the two helicopters and one Dornier aircraft provided by India. He also mentioned his personal experience, revealing that although he underwent training under Indian soldiers, he was unable to complete it.

The strained relationship between India and the Maldives escalated when Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as pro-China, assumed the presidency. Muizzu's directive led to the departure of 76 Indian soldiers from the Maldives by May 10, prompting India to recall its troops.

Indian soldiers were initially deployed to train Maldivian forces. During the tenure of former Presidents Mohammad Nasheed and Abdullah Yameen, India provided helicopters to the Maldives. The Dornier fighter jet was supplied during the presidency of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.