Mozambique has received two fast interceptor boats from India following a recent visit by the Indian Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh to the African country. India and Mozambique also signed an MoU that will enhance bilateral relations between the two in fighting radicalization and extremism. The boats were handed over on 29 July during a ceremony at Mozambican Naval Headquarters.
Mozambican Navy officers and personnel underwent training on the boats in India in November last year ahead of delivery. A four-member team from the Indian Coast Guard is assisting with training and support for the maintenance and operation of the two boats, which will be used for coastal surveillance.
The 30-meter-long fast interceptors have since been named Namiliti and Umbeluzi, and have a top speed of 45 knots, range of 500 nautical miles and are typically armed with machineguns. Moreover, they can have a crew of up to a dozen sailors and are best utilized in surveillance, patrol, search and rescue, anti-poaching, counter-smuggling, and other maritime security missions.
Additionally, India gave 44 SUVs vehicle to Mozambique’s ministry of interior expected to boost safety and security apparatus of the Mozambican police forces. The SUVs will enhance patrol and security maintenance especially in the northern province which is faced by threats from jihadists identifying themselves as ISIS-Central Africa Province.
