US PROVIDES COASTAL PATROL BOAT TO MOZAMBICAN NAVY
Maputo, 8 Dec (AIM) – The US government has provided a 10-metre long coastal patrol boat to the Mozambican Navy, as part of the ongoing security cooperation between the two countries.
In addition to the boat, according to a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Maputo, Mozambican Navy officers will participate in training offered by the U.S. manufacturer SAFE Boat International.
The high speed boat is valued at 700,000 dollars and is used for interception and maritime boarding operations.
At the handover, US Ambassador Peter Vrooman said that the vessel will enhance maritime security and enable naval forces to respond to increasingly complex challenges and threats.
“We provide training and educational opportunities for Mozambican and American soldiers, sailors, and marines who choose to serve their country. Together, we are working towards a stronger and more resilient Mozambique”, the diplomat said.
He also explained that the donation is part of a broader set of security assistance programmes designed to increase the resilience of the Mozambican Navy in the fight against terrorism and transnational organized crime throughout the country.
“These programmes include International Military Training and Education (IMET), three Combined Joint Exchange Training (JCET) programmes, a Maritime Maintenance and Logistics Advisory programme, and equipment donations designed to enhance, maintain and support the Navy in the execution of its defence strategy”, he said.
(AIM)
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