#migration-crisis

Malta: Military and Paramilitary Forces — The AFM, the Maritime SAR, and the Mediterranean Migration Frontline

This article examines the unique defense posture of Malta, defined by its constitutional commitment to neutrality and non-alignment. It analyzes the organizational structure of the unified Armed Forces of Malta (AFM), including land, maritime, and air wing capabilities, alongside its constrained defense budget of approximately 0.5% of GDP. The operational demands of patrolling a massive Mediterranean Search and Rescue (SAR) region and managing the frontline border security challenges of irregular migration are detailed.