Hilmy: “Muizzu's Leadership Marking a Historic Rise in Armed Forces Capabilities”

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Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy has hailed President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration as a transformative era for the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), citing historic advancements in military capability under his leadership.

Speaking at the 133rd Army Day celebrations held at the Army Headquarters Kaluthukkala Koshi on Monday evening, Hilmy expressed deep appreciation for the President’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the nation’s defence forces.

“In this short period, we have seen capabilities within the armed forces that have never before existed in our history,” Hilmy declared. “President Muizzu has not only envisioned a stronger defence force, he is delivering on it.”

Hilmy highlighted that although the Military Act has been in force since the adoption of the Constitution in 2008, the creation of the Air Force — mandated in the legislation — had remained unrealised until now.

“That vision became a reality under President Muizzu,” Hilmy said, noting that the President, as Commander-in-Chief, has taken decisive steps to establish aerial, maritime, and ground forces under the MNDF.

He further stressed the importance of protecting the nation's territory and the Maldivian people as outlined in the Constitution, saying the MNDF's duty to uphold these principles has never been more supported.

“In addition to the Air Force, the strength of our naval and land units is also being elevated to new levels,” he noted.

Praising President Muizzu’s patriotism and determination, Hilmy said, “He is a national leader who truly loves his country. We thank him sincerely for the bold and visionary efforts to make our defence forces stronger and more capable.”

As the Maldives marks 133 years since the formation of its military, this year’s Army Day celebration serves as a powerful reflection of renewed national pride and military ambition, driven by a government prioritizing sovereignty, security, and strength.