Turkey Supplies Maldives with Bayraktar TB2 Drones
The supply of TB2 drones to the Maldives underlines Turkey's willingness to extend its strategic partnerships beyond its immediate region.
Kuçova Tactical Air Base, NATO's first air base in the Western Balkans, was inaugurated in Kuçova Municipality of Berat province in Albania. Air vehicles such as UAVs, airplanes and helicopters, including Bayraktar TB2 UCAVs, were exhibited at the ceremony. Photo by Anadolu Images.
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n a move that could exacerbate already strained relations between the Maldives and India, Turkey has initiated the delivery of its renowned combat drones, the Bayraktar TB2, to the island nation. The delivery, part of a bilateral agreement between Turkey and the Maldives, aims to enhance the security capabilities of the Maldivian armed forces amid escalating tensions in the region.
The agreement, which includes the supply of a command control station and six TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), follows a visit by Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu to Turkey in November 2023. During the visit, President Muizzu engaged in discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and toured several Turkish defense industry companies.
The timing of the drone supply is significant, as it comes amidst growing tensions between the Maldives and India since President Muizzu assumed office last year. Traditionally, the Maldives has maintained close ties with India, but under Muizzu’s leadership, the country has been tilting towards closer relations with Beijing, raising concerns in New Delhi.
Indian troops in the Maldives
One of the major points of contention between the Maldives and India has been the presence of Indian troops in the Maldives. President Muizzu has been vocal in calling for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel stationed in the country, adding to the diplomatic friction between the two nations.
Developed by Baykar, the Bayraktar TB2 drones have gained recognition for their effectiveness in various conflicts worldwide, including in Azerbaijan, Libya, and Ukraine. The TB2 drones played a significant role in countering Russian forces during the early stages of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, showcasing their combat capabilities on the global stage.
The supply of TB2 drones to the Maldives underscores Turkey’s growing influence in the defense industry and its willingness to expand its strategic partnerships beyond its immediate region. With exports to 33 countries, including NATO and EU member states, Turkey’s defense industry continues to make strides in the international market.
However, the delivery of the drones to the Maldives is likely to further strain relations between the Maldives and India, potentially leading to heightened tensions in the region. As both countries navigate delicate diplomatic waters, the impact of Turkey’s involvement in the region remains to be seen.
The delivery of the Bayraktar TB2 drones to the Maldives marks another chapter in the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean region, with implications for regional stability and security.
