The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has congratulated its team for winning gold at the International Pakistan Army team Spirit (PATS) Competition 2026.
PATS is a top-level competition designed to strengthen and enhance military capabilities. The competition covered military techniques and operational response in various situations. Fifteen soldiers from the National Counter Terrorism Centre represented the Maldives in the tournament held at the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Pabbi, Pakistan from 5 to 7 February, competing against 24 teams from 16 countries. The Maldivian team returned to the country following the competition on 14 February.
The team was received at Velana International Airport (VIA) by senior officials of MNDF, including Vice Chief of Defence Force, Brigadier General Ahmed Giyas, Special Forces Commander Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Rasheed. Upon the team’s arrival at the MNDF Headquarters, Minister of Defence Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy as well as general officers greeted the team.
The Defence Minister said the team’s victory at the competition proves that despite the limited resources that the Maldives has, Maldivian soldiers are on par with officers across the world, in terms of their courage, determination, capability and strength. He noted that expanding army resources and structural development of army bases are being carried out under the direct supervision of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.