Following India’s withdrawal request of its forces from its territory, the Maldives has announced the acquisition of the Bayraktar TB2 drone from Turkey to monitor its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The Maldivian government plans to deploy the Bayraktar TB2 drone, developed by the Turkish company Baykar Technology, to surveil its 900,000 square kilometer EEZ, enhancing its maritime surveillance capabilities.
First batch of TB2 Drones delivered to Maldives sparks regional tensions the Maldivian government plans to deploy the Bayraktar TB2 drone, developed by the Turkish company Baykar Technology, to surveil its 900,000 square kilometer EEZ, enhancing its maritime surveillance capabilities
The high-powered drone was reportedly acquired by the Maldivian government on March 3 and has been operational from the Maafaru International Airport in the Noonu Atoll. In addition to the Turkish drone, the Maldives government intends to purchase drones from China for similar purposes following the recent visit of their new president to China.
The acquisition of the Bayraktar TB2 drone by the Maldives from Turkey may face disapproval from India, given the strained relations between New Delhi and Ankara. India had stationed personnel in the Maldives to operate and maintain helicopters and light aircraft provided for search and rescue operations on the islands. Muizzu, perceived as pro-Chinese, assumed the presidency in November, campaigning on a platform that emphasized withdrawing from India.