While the Armed Forces of Malta is undergoing its biggest ever expansion in terms of assets, Brigadier Martin Xuereb recognises that Malta’s defence must be run on a commercial business model.

In an interview given to this newspaper, the brigadier explains that, while the AFM is rolling out new aircraft and patrol boats, refitting existing assets and tapping into EU funds, recruitment is becoming more specialised.

The AFM, he says, must punch above its weight, and to do so requires capital investment, as well as maintenance and running costs – both of which are expensive, but crucial. He believes that, in order to deal with today’s challenges in the Mediterranean, the AFM must continue to invest in the right people, both from within existing ranks and in the recruitment phase.

The brigadier also speaks about the AFM’s role in dealing with migration and asylum seekers. Over the years, he explains, Malta has become experienced in dealing with the dangers posed in rescuing people at sea without loss of life. He is resolute in his stance on the issue: “Out at sea, there is no race, creed or colour. A life is a life.”

He said that the AFM will always fulfill its obligations towards humanity. “Irrespective of any difficulties, we do not play with people’s lives. We are not policy makers, we execute policy. Malta’s policy is to save lives, and that is what we try our utmost to do,” he said.

The brigadier knows that the AFM has its work cut out in operating during difficult times, both financially and in terms of security. “But we are here to serve. The AFM is a work in progress and we will continue to identify lessons, and then learn from them.”

Full interview

http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=123977