The United States Military and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) have commenced a month-long training programme in the Maldives, aimed at enhancing the MNDF’s capabilities. The exercise, titled “Exercise Flash Metal 2025-7006”, began on Sunday, 12 January 2025, and will run through the coming month.

The programme involves personnel from the MNDF’s Special Boat Squadron of the Coast Guard, Special Forces, and Marines, all of whom will receive advanced training from US military instructors. The training takes place at the MNDF Training Centre in Girifushi, Kaafu Atoll, with additional exercises planned to be held on islands and maritime areas under the MNDF Central Area Command in Laamu Atoll.

The MNDF has confirmed that this exercise is part of a broader series of joint training initiatives with the United States, designed to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Maldives’ defence forces. The series of exercises focuses on a range of skills and tactics critical to enhancing the country’s maritime security and defence readiness.