A specialised low-emission Explosive Ordnance Disposal/Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (EOD/IEDD) response vehicle with a cost of around €2.1 million was inaugurated during an official ceremony held at the Armed Forces of Malta’s Luqa Barracks. The vehicle includes a primary EOD robot, a secondary backup EOD Robot, and other specialist EOD equipment which will enhance the AFM’s EOD capabilities.
Minister for Home Affairs and National Security Michael Farrugia, Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds and Social Dialogue Aaron Farrugia, Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta Jeffrey Curmi, and Telerob Managing Director Thomas Biehne presided over the ceremony.
Commander Curmi said that “today’s ceremony is once again testimony to the efforts of the Armed Forces of Malta in continuously seeking to strengthen and improve its capabilities. It highlights the commitment of the Force to better serve and protect our country and its citizens.” The Commander thanked all those involved in the project and concluded his speech by mentioning all bomb disposal technicians who on a daily basis attend to work without knowing whether their life will once again be put on the line for the safety of others.
Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds and Social Dialogue Aaron Farrugia stated that Europe has never been so peacefully consolidated, and that the levels of security enjoyed by European citizens are high when compared to other parts of the world. Aaron Farrugia noted, however, that Europe’s vulnerability continues to exist in a context of ever-increasing globalisation in which societies are facing security threats and challenges that are growing in scale and sophistication.
The Parliamentary Secretary said that the European Security Union will increase collaboration in dealing with complex, hybrid 21st century security challenges. He noted that the first duty of any government is the safety and security of its citizens. “There is no work more important than that undertaken by our armed forces and security services. Thus it follows that there are no EU funding programmes more important than those we are celebrating today”, stated Aaron Farrugia.
Aaron Farrugia concluded by saying that the Armed forces of Malta are truly an example of how to maximise EU funds successfully, and by encouraging the AFM to take up more direct funding initiatives.
Minister for Home Affairs and National Security Michael Farrugia stated that today’s ceremony is an opportunity to observe the equipment bought by the AFM. He reiterated the AFM’s, Malta’s Disciplinary Forces and Secret Services’ determination to constantly invest in their equipment, resources and personnel. Such investment includes the biggest AFM Offshore Patrol vessel P63, to be built in the near future.
Minister Farrugia said that hopefully the EOD/IEDD response vehicle will be used to the minimum or none at all. The Minister emphasised the need for the AFM and the disciplined forces to be prepared in fighting certain acts of criminality and possible terrorism. “Let’s continue working together to keep our country safe and protected, and ready for any situation that may arise”, concluded the Minister.