The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard proudly celebrated its 45th anniversary on January 1, 2024, commemorating over four decades of dedicated service in safeguarding the nation’s waters and airspace.

Established in 1980 as a specialised unit of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), the Coast Guard has evolved into a critical component of the country’s defence apparatus.

Before its formal establishment, the Maldivian military was already engaged in safeguarding the nation’s maritime zones.

Over the years, the Coast Guard has grown into a multi-faceted force tasked with defending Maldivian maritime territory and airspace, protecting the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), securing critical maritime infrastructure, and conducting search and rescue operations to save lives and property at sea.

In addition to its primary naval duties, the Coast Guard fulfils a diverse range of responsibilities, including civil defence, rapid emergency response during maritime disasters, and enforcing national and international maritime laws as mandated by the Armed Forces Act (1/2008).

The Coast Guard's most significant contribution to maritime safety lies in its continuous efforts to raise public awareness about safety and security at sea, with the goal of reducing accidents and improving preparedness among the public.