India Gifts Fast Interceptor Craft to Mozambique to Strengthen Maritime Security

Maputo: As part of its ongoing commitment to bolstering maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the Government of India gifted two water-jet-propelled Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) to Mozambique on November 8, 2024. The FICs were transported from India by INS Gharial, with the formal handover taking place in the presence of senior officials from both countries.

The Handing Over Ceremony was attended by India’s High Commissioner to Mozambique, Shri Robert Shetkintong, India’s newly appointed Defence Adviser at Maputo, Colonel Puneet Attri, and the Commanding Officer of INS Gharial, Commander Rajan Chib. Mr. Augusto Casimiro Mueio, Permanent Secretary of Mozambique’s Ministry of National Defence, accepted the vessels on behalf of the Mozambican government.

These Fast Interceptor Craft are equipped with machine guns, bullet-resistant cabins, and can reach speeds of up to 45 knots, with a range of 200 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 12 knots. Each craft can carry a crew of five, providing Mozambique with enhanced capability to counter maritime threats such as terrorism and insurgency, particularly in the conflict-prone Cabo Delgado province.

This gift marks the latest development in India and Mozambique’s long-standing partnership for maritime security. In previous years, India has gifted two larger interceptor vessels (2019) and two additional FICs in January 2022. The Indian Navy continues to serve as a preferred partner for security among IOR nations, providing critical training and support. Through on-job training led by India’s resident Coast Guard Afloat Support Team in Maputo, Mozambique’s maritime forces have gained expertise in operating and maintaining Indian-donated vessels, which have proven essential in patrol and interdiction missions.

India’s support for Mozambique also extends to humanitarian aid, with Indian Naval Ships assisting during Cyclone Idai in 2019 and vaccine donations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Indian Navy has consistently been the first responder in the region, delivering disaster relief, medical aid, and training for Mozambique’s armed forces. Recently, India also donated an Infantry Weapons Training Simulator for Mozambique’s Army.

The Indian Navy’s collaboration with Mozambique includes joint operations, such as the 2023 India-Mozambique-Tanzania Trilateral Exercise, further strengthening the nations’ capabilities to secure the region from piracy, illegal fishing, and other maritime challenges. Indian naval vessels have conducted regular port calls and joint surveillance missions, underscoring India’s commitment to regional stability.

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR) vision, India remains dedicated to supporting its maritime neighbors. This latest gesture signifies India’s unwavering support for Mozambique’s security needs and the broader peace and development of the Indian Ocean Region.