AFM Roles

The Armed Forces of Malta's primary objective is to defend the Islands' integrity according to the defence roles as set by Government in an efficient and cost effective manner. This it does by emphasizing on the maintenance of Malta's territorial waters' and airspace integrity .The AFM reports directly to the Hon. Prime Minister, who also acts as the Minister of Defence.   Although not at full establishment, the present AFM compliment is of around 1,900 personnel (as at end January, 2002) with another 123 civilian employees.

The AFM is also devoted to combating terrorism, fighting against illicit drugs' trafficking, conduct anti-illegal immigrant and fishing operations, operating Search and Rescue (SAR) services, and physical/electronic security/surveillance of sensitive locations.

As a military organisation, the AFM also provides backup support to the Malta Police Force and other Government Departments/agencies in situations as required in an organised, disciplined manner in the event of national emergencies (such as natural disasters) or internal security and bomb disposal.

On another level, the AFM establishes and/or consolidates bilateral co-operation with other countries to reach higher operational effectiveness related to AFM roles.