The Ministry of Defence has confirmed that Türkiye will donate the TCG Volkan (P-343), a Dogan-class fast attack craft, to the Maldives.

In a statement, the Ministry said the initiative aligns with the Government’s commitment to strengthening national security and safeguarding the independence and sovereignty of the Maldives. As part of these efforts, the President has made the expansion of the Coast Guard and the overall capabilities of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) a top priority.

The Ministry stated that this donation is a result of strengthened ties with friendly nations, particularly Türkiye. The vessel will be donated as free aid.

Personnel from the MNDF are currently undergoing training in Türkiye to prepare for the operation and maintenance of the vessel.

The Ministry described the addition of the TCG Volkan as a significant step forward in strengthening the Maldives’ maritime security. It also said the move reflects the country’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding its maritime territory and contributing to the security of the Indian Ocean as part of the international community.

The TCG Volkan, originally commissioned into the Turkish Navy in May 1981, was reclassified in 2024 as a test and training vessel. Designed by German shipbuilder Lürssen Werft, the Doğan-class ships were a major enhancement in Türkiye’s naval capabilities, being the first class of vessels equipped with Harpoon anti-ship missiles.