India gifted two waterjet propelled Fast Interceptor Crafts (FIC) to Mozambique in order to strengthen the maritime security in the Indian Ocean region.

The vessels were transhipped by INS Gharial, were presented at a formal ceremony in Mozambique’s Nacala on Friday (November 8), attended by key officials including India’s High Commissioner to Mozambique, Robert Shetkintong, Defence Adviser Colonel Puneet Attri, and Commander Rajan Chib of INS Gharial.

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

The FICs are capable of reaching speeds of 45 knots and equipped with machine guns and bullet-resistant cabins. They will significantly enhance Mozambique’s capability to address maritime threats, including terrorism and insurgency in the Cabo Delgado region, the Navy said in a statement.

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

The Indian Navy, recognised as a trusted partner by several nations in the Indian Ocean region, has actively collaborated with regional navies to build capacities against challenges such as piracy, human and drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and maritime terrorism.

India’s longstanding support extends to humanitarian assistance, highlighted by the Indian Navy’s swift response during Mozambique’s 2019 Cyclone Idai and the provision of over one million COVID-19 vaccine doses in 2021.

India has also facilitated training for Mozambique’s armed forces and has provided infrastructure, such as an Infantry Weapons Training Simulator.

The resident Indian Coast Guard team continues to assist with training on the operation and maintenance of Indian-gifted vessels.

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