India Strengthens Maritime Ties with Mozambique, Gifts Two Fast Interceptor Craft

Nacala, Mozambique: India reinforced its strategic partnership with Mozambique by gifting two water-jet propelled Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) to bolster maritime security. The handing-over ceremony was attended by High Commissioner of India Robert Shetkintong, Defence Adviser Col Puneet Attri and Commander Rajan Chib.

These vessels will enhance Mozambique’s capabilities to combat maritime terrorism and insurgency in Cabo Delgado province. This donation follows India’s previous gifts of two large Interceptor vessels in 2019 and two FICs in January 2022.

Fast Interceptor Crafts have top speed of 45-knot and 200-nautical-mile ranges and enhanced security features, including machine guns and bullet-resistant cabins, to combat terrorism and insurgency in Cabo Delgado province.

India has emerged as a preferred partner for maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The Indian Navy collaborates with friendly nations to counter piracy, drug trafficking, and maritime terrorism. Notably, India provided humanitarian aid during Cyclone Idai in 2019 and COVID-19 vaccine doses in 2021.

India has strengthened its defense ties with Mozambique through comprehensive training programs. The Mozambique Armed Forces benefit from training opportunities in prestigious Indian institutions, focusing on strategic studies, defense management, artillery, electronics, and mechanical engineering.

Additionally, India gifted an Infantry Weapons Training Simulator to Mozambique, installed at the Army Practicing School Manhica, near Maputo, in November last year. The resident Indian Coast Guard Afloat Support Team at Maputo provides hands-on training on operating and maintaining Indian-gifted vessels.

Regular port calls by Indian Warships and joint exercises, like the India-Mozambique-Tanzania Trilateral Exercise, further solidify bilateral ties.