India has gifted Mozambique with two water-jet-powered Fast Interceptor (FIC) boats to strengthen maritime security in the Indian Ocean region.

The vessels were transshipped by the INS Gavial and were presented at an official ceremony in Nacala, Mozambique on Friday, November 8, attended by key officials including the Indian High Commissioner to Mozambique, Robert Shetkintong, Defense Advisor Colonel Puneet Attri and INS Commander Rajan Chib. Gharial.

Mozambique’s Ministry of National Defense was represented by Permanent Secretary Augusto Casimiro Mueio, who accepted the job on behalf of the government.

The FICs are capable of reaching speeds of 45 knots and equipped with machine guns and bulletproof cabins. They will significantly strengthen Mozambique’s capacity to deal with maritime threats, including terrorism and insurgency in the Cabo Delgado region, the navy said in a statement.

India also donated two large interceptor vessels in 2019 and two similar FICs in January 2022 to Mozambique, demonstrating India’s commitment to regional maritime security.

The Indian Navy, recognized as a trusted partner by several countries in the Indian Ocean region, has actively collaborated with regional navies to strengthen their capabilities in the face of challenges such as piracy, human and drug trafficking. drugs, illegal fishing and maritime terrorism.

India’s long-standing support extends to humanitarian assistance, as evidenced by the Indian Navy’s rapid response during Cyclone Idai in Mozambique in 2019 and the provision of more than a million vaccine doses against COVID-19 in 2021.

India has also facilitated the training of Mozambique’s armed forces and provided infrastructure, such as an infantry weapons training simulator.

The Indian Coast Guard Resident Team continues to contribute to training on operation and maintenance of vessels with Indian talent.

Regular port calls by Indian warships and participation in surveillance activities and joint exercises further underline India’s comprehensive support, the Navy said.

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