Momentum calls for stronger defence investment on Freedom Day<\/p>\n
Momentum has called for a rethink of Malta’s defence policy amid global instability, the party said in a statement.<\/p>\n
The party described Freedom Day, which marks 47 years since British withdrawal, as a moment to reassess national security.<\/p>\n
It said that in the following years, Malta chose to be neutral and eventually enshrined the principle in its Constitution.<\/p>\n
While Momentum said that it is proud of that choice, on this Freedom Day in 2026, amid a time of global upheaval, it understood that neutrality may not be enough.<\/p>\n
“Neutrality without security is not a policy and is not a guarantee that shields us from every threat we face,” the party said.<\/p>\n
Momentum said that Malta’s defence spending remains among the lowest in the EU as a percentage of GDP, which is largely spent on wages rather than capability.<\/p>\n
The party also expressed concerns about the Armed Forces of Malta’s readiness and equipment.<\/p>\n
Momentum spoke of operational weaknesses, such as a lack of functioning assets.<\/p>\n
It said that the patrol vessel P71, which has been moored for four months, and the helicopters are non-operational, the party said.<\/p>\n
Moreover, it said that AFM is focused mostly on search and rescue and limited coastal patrol. Momentum questioned the AFM’s operational readiness, referring to their defence strategies as outdated.<\/p>\n
Momentum cited recent regional incidents, such as the attack on the tanker Arctic Metagaz and the drone attack on a civilian vessel near Hurd’s Bank.<\/p>\n
The party said that Malta lacks capacity to respond quickly to security threats and environmental risks.<\/p>\n
“Malta’s security goes beyond ships, aircraft and personnel. It must also invest in digital protection, including cybersecurity. Cyberattacks, disinformation, and threats to critical infrastructure like energy, banking, and communications are growing risks,” it said.<\/p>\n
Momentum said that Malta must strengthen its capabilities, build expertise, and ensure preparedness across the public and private sectors.<\/p>\n
It called for stronger investment in the Critical Infrastructure Protection unit, which handles national threats but lacks a strong workforce.<\/p>\n
“Momentum believes that this Freedom Day should start a conversation about Malta’s security and defence, ensuring that the freedom won in 1979 is matched with the investment needed to defend,” it said.<\/p>\n
Momentum election candidate Carmel Asciak said that the party cherishes Malta’s military neutrality, which is why it believes that this must be supported with real capability.<\/p>\n
“Let us work to ensure that the AFM has the tools it needs to maintain peace and stability on our land, air and sea around us,” Asciak said.<\/p>\n