Malta’s Armed Forces spent more than 10,000 operational hours at sea in 2025, carrying out hundreds of patrols, inspections, boardings and other operations around the islands.The figures were revealed during Home Affairs and Security Minister Glenn Bedingfield’s visit to the AFM Maritime Squadron headquarters at Hay Wharf in Floriana.Throughout the year, the squadron was involved in law enforcement operations, assisting vessels at sea and responding to cases involving irregular migration, alongside its regular maritime surveillance duties.During his visit, Bedingfield toured the P61 offshore patrol vessel and was briefed on how it is used for surveillance, search and rescue operations and maritime security.He also visited the squadron’s engineering workshops, where personnel maintain and provide technical support to the AFM’s fleet.Beyond patrolling Malta’s territorial waters, the Maritime Squadron is tasked with responding to emergencies at sea and tackling smuggling, trafficking and other maritime crime. It also assists the Malta Police Force and other authorities when required.Addressing AFM personnel, Bedingfield thanked them for their work and said the government would continue investing in equipment, resources and training for the Armed Forces.“The Maritime Squadron is at the forefront of safeguarding Malta’s security and protecting our maritime borders,” he said, pointing towards its work in patrols, rescues and operations against criminal activity at sea.📸 MHS•