€12 million spent on surveillance, communication equipment for army

Assets at the disposal of the Armed Forces of Malta will next year include a new aircraft equipped with sophisticated surveillance technology that can be used for search and rescue operations, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi announced yesterday.

This, together with a new modern communication system the AFM started using this year, added up to an investment of €12 million, he said during the passing out parade of new recruits. "The government's commitment towards the army is reflected in the strong investment in infrastructure and equipment," he said. This year, the maritime squadron started using four new patrol boats worth €9.5 million.

Recruiting and training were the sources of the army's potential, he said. There was "considerable interest" when, in January, the army issued applications for cadets, full-time soldiers and reserves.

Speaking about promotions, Dr Gonzi said there was a "drastic" drop in the number of complaints after the process was revised.

Over the years, the soldiers' service was inspired by solid values of loyalty, duty, respect, integrity and personal courage, Dr Gonzi said. "But it could not be done without the full and essential support of the family."

For the past four months, 53 male recruits, among them 10 from Gozo, faced a strict training programme that included physical training, use of weapons, basic first aid, basic swimming and water rescue.

During yesterday's ceremony, 10 officer cadets were promoted to the rank of second lieutenant. Dr Gonzi congratulated three junior officers who won top awards during military training in the UK and the US.