View source for Armed Forces of Malta

{{Short description|none}}
{{distinguish|Sovereign Military Order of Malta}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2020}}

{{Infobox national military
| name = Armed Forces of Malta
| native_name = {{lang|mt|Forzi Armati ta' Malta}}
| image = [[File:Coat of arms Armed forces of Malta.svg|150px]]
| alt = 
| caption = The coat of arms of the Armed Forces of Malta.
| image2 = Military colour of the Armed Forces of Malta.jpg
| alt2 = 
| caption2 = Flag of the Armed Forces of Malta.
| motto = 
| founded = {{Start date and age|1973|04|19|df=yes}}
| current_form = 
| disbanded = 
| branches = [[File:Coat of arms Armed forces of Malta.svg|25px]] Headquarters<br />[[File:Emblème du 1st Regiment (Malte).svg|25px]] [[1st Regiment of the Armed Forces of Malta|1st Regiment]]<br />3rd Regiment<br />4th Regiment<br />[[File:Malta Air Wing emblem.svg|25px]] [[Air Wing of the Armed Forces of Malta|Air Wing]]<br />[[Maritime Squadron of the Armed Forces of Malta|Maritime Squadron]]
| headquarters = Safi Luqa barracks, Ħal [[Luqa]]
| flying_hours = 
| website = {{URL|https://afm.gov.mt/en/Pages/AFM.aspx|Official Website}}
<!-- Leadership -->| commander-in-chief = [[Myriam Spiteri Debono]]
| commander-in-chief_title = [[President of Malta]]
| chief minister = 
| chief minister_title = 
| minister = [[Byron Camilleri]] [[Parliament of Malta|MP]]
| minister_title = [[List of ministers for home affairs of Malta|Minister for Home Affairs, Security and Employment]]
| commander = Brigadier Clinton J O'Neill
| commander_title = [[Commander of the Armed Forces (Malta)|Commander of the Armed Forces]]
<!-- Manpower -->| age = 18 years of age
| conscription = No
| manpower_data = 
| manpower_age = 
| available = 
| available_f = 
| fit = 
| fit_f = 
| reaching = 
| reaching_f = 
| active = 1,500
| ranked = 
| reserve = 
| deployed = <!-- Financial -->
| amount = €112,6 millions (2023)<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Government_expenditure_on_defence|title=Government expenditure on defence|website=ec.europa.eu}}</ref>
| percent_GDP = 0.52% of the GDP (2023)<ref name="auto"/>
<!-- Industrial -->| domestic_suppliers = 
| foreign_suppliers = {{flag|Czech Republic}}<br />{{flag|France}}<br />{{flag|Germany}}<br />{{flag|Israel}}<br />{{flag|Italy}}<br />{{flag|Poland}}<br />{{flag|Sweden}}<br />{{flag|Switzerland}}<br />{{flag|United Kingdom}}<br />{{flag|United States}}
| imports = 
| exports = <!-- Related aricles -->
| history = [[Military history of Malta]]<br />[[King's Own Malta Regiment]]<br />[[National Congress Battalions]]
| ranks = [[Military ranks of Malta]]
}}

[[Image:Armed Forces of Malta.png|right|thumb|445px|Structure of the Armed Forces of Malta]]

The '''Armed Forces of Malta''' ({{langx|mt|Forzi Armati ta' Malta}}) is the name given to the combined armed services of [[Malta]]. The '''AFM''' is a [[brigade]] sized organisation consisting of a headquarters and three separate [[Regiment|regiments]], with minimal air and naval forces. Since Malta is the guardian of the [[European Union]]'s southernmost border, the AFM has an active role in border control.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/doc_centre/borders/docs/List%20of%20national%20services%20responsible%20for%20border%20control.pdf |title=List of national services responsible for border control |website=ec.europa.com}}</ref>

== History ==
In April 1800, while the [[Siege of Malta (1798–1800)|blockade of Valletta]] was underway, [[Thomas Graham, 1st Baron Lynedoch|Thomas Graham]] raised the first official Maltese Troops in the British Army, which became known as the [[Maltese Light Infantry]]. This battalion was disbanded in 1802 and succeeded by the [[Maltese Provincial Battalions]], the [[Malta Coast Artillery]] and the [[Maltese Veterans]]. In 1815, Lieutenant Colonel Count [[Francesco Rivarola|Francis Rivarola]] was entrusted with the task of raising the [[Royal Malta Fencible Regiment]] following the disbandment of the Provincials, Veterans and Coast Artillery. The Royal Malta Fencible Regiment was converted to an artillery regiment in 1861 and became known as the [[Royal Malta Fencible Artillery]]. Twenty-eight years later, the direct predecessors of the modern Armed Forces of Malta came into existence following the formation of the [[Royal Malta Artillery]] on 23 March 1889.

The King's Own Malta Regiment was a territorial infantry regiment on the [[British Army]] colonial list. It was formed in 1801 as the "[[Maltese Militia#1801–1802|Regiment of Maltese Militia]]", existing only until the following year. It was reformed as the "[[Maltese Militia#1852–1857|Maltese Militia]]" by Sir [[Adrian Dingli]] in 1852 before being disbanded again in 1857. It was raised again, this time as the "Royal Malta Regiment of Militia" in 1889; this regiment was considered to be the successor to the "Maltese Chasseurs" of the early 19th century. The regiment was renamed the "King's Own Royal Malta Regiment of Militia" in 1903 and was disbanded in 1921. The regiment was raised for a fourth time in 1931 as the "King's Own Malta Regiment". Initially on the British Establishment, in 1951 it was transferred to the Malta Territorial Force before becoming part of the Malta Land Force on Malta's independence in 1964. The regiment was disbanded in 1972.

The AFM was formed upon Malta becoming a republic in 1974, when 1 Regiment [[Royal Malta Artillery]] was renamed as 1 Regiment, AFM. This initially continued the artillery role, with 2 Regiment formed as an engineers unit. In 1980, 1 Regiment became a mixed unit, with infantry, aircraft and maritime responsibilities, the artillery element being transferred to 2 Regiment. In 1992, there was a major re-organisation, which led to the formation of 3 Regiment and the current structure.

''' KOMR Battle Honours'''

* 1800 (awarded for services of the Maltese Chasseurs)
* 1882 (Egypt)
* [[Second World War]]: Malta 1940–1942

== Organisation ==

=== Headquarters, AFM ===
HQ AFM is the Force Headquarters located at Luqa Barracks, Luqa. It is a joint Headquarters that operates at the military strategic as well as the operational and tactical levels.

HQ AFM is composed of the following branches:

* Human Resources Management Branch
* International Affairs Branch
* Operations, Plans and Intelligence Branch
* Integrated Logistics Branch
* Capabilities and Training Branch
* Financial Management Branch
* Property Management & Development Branch

=== 1st Regiment, AFM ===
{{main article|1st Regiment of the Armed Forces of Malta}}

[[File:Emblème du 1st Regiment (Malte).svg|thumb|1st Regiment]]
1st Regiment is Malta's [[infantry]] unit, and has primary responsibility for the territorial defence of the country. It is divided into three rifle [[company (military unit)|companies]], a support company and a headquarters company.

* Headquarters Company – provides combat service support to the other manoeuvre subunits of the unit. The orbat consists of a Company Headquarters (CHQ), Motor Transport section, Pioneer section, Regimental Police section, Signals section, Armoury section and Quartermaster Section.
* A Company – is responsible for airport security in the controlled access role by providing security guards at terminal access points/airfield perimeter gates leading to restricted areas and by conducting patrol in these said areas. They also enforce access passes and visitor movement control assisted with CCTV surveillance and is based at [[Malta International Airport]].
* B Company – is responsible for security duties in various locations. It carries out land patrols and conducts vehicle checkpoints for traffic contraventions, illegal immigrants' identification and apprehension, and anti-narcotics' searches. It liaises very closely with the police in relation to many of their activities. In addition, it is an internal security company, tasked with guarding high-profile/sensitive government establishments, and is based at [[Ħal Far]].
*C Company – is the AFM's Quick Reaction Force, for high-risk operations both internally and as part of the [[European Union]]. It also serves as an infantry training unit for the AFM and is based at Ħal Far.
*D Company - a new company was noted on a video released by AFM, not much is known about their purpose but their motto "NUNTRUM COMPARAT ET CUSTODIT" means "Providing and Protecting Information" so it could be recon-oriented company. They seem to be well equipped similar to C Company and can be seen using drones and snipers. More needs to be learned about this new company.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 June 2025 |title=Delta Company Announcement Video |website=[[Facebook]] |url=https://www.facebook.com/ArmedForcesOfMaltaafm/videos/2160369434436607}}</ref>
* Air Defence & Support Company – provides Malta's primary air defence capability, armed with the Bofors 40mm L70 (currently being phased out) and ZPU-4 14.5mm AAMG as well as 81mm mortars, Type 69 RPGs and Browning .50 HMGs for ground support. Its primary role is the light anti-aircraft defence of Luqa Airport and other vulnerable points on the Maltese islands. Gunnery training and battery shooting practices are regularly held at Pembroke Ranges, St. Andrews. This sub-unit runs a training school conducting Junior Non-commissioned Officers Leadership development courses, Infantry trade courses, Ceremonial Saluting guns courses and AAMG courses. All the AFM ceremonial activities that involve the firing of the saluting guns are performed by this sub-unit. This sub-unit is also responsible for the administration and training of the Emergency Volunteer Reserve Force.
* '''Battle Honours'''
** [[Anglo-Egyptian War]]
** [[Operation Atalanta]]
** [[EUTM Somalia]]

=== 3rd Regiment, AFM ===

3 Regiment is the AFM's main support unit, and consists of three operational sections.

* Engineer Squadron – this provides the engineering support.
* Ammunition and Explosives Company – is responsible for the storage and control of all types of ammunition held by the AFM as well as for the storage and control of blasting material used by civilian contractors for quarry blasting, etc. It includes the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) section which is responsible for the detection and disposal of bombs and other explosive devices. It is also responsible for the inspection of mail at major post offices, inspection of baggage and aircraft at the airport and security checks at the house of Representative
* Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Squadron – is responsible for the repair and maintenance of all AFM vehicles, generators, plant and other service equipment.

=== 4th Regiment, AFM ===

Established with the AFM review of 30 October 2006, it includes:
* HQ Company
* Armed Forces of Malta Ceremonial Drill Team – Since its re-establishment on 1 August 2014, the AFM Ceremonial Drill Team has performed synchronized drill displays in different events in events connected with the AFM. The team is platoon sized and is composed of 21 soldiers from different units within the AFM.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.maltamilitarytattoo.org/en/gallery/gallery/26/armed-forces-of-malta-drill-team.htm |title=Armed Forces of Malta Drill Team Malta {{pipe}} Malta Malta {{pipe}} Gallery {{pipe}} Malta Military tattoo {{pipe}} Tattoos Malta Malta &#124 |website=Malta Military Tattoo Malta}}</ref>
* The [[Armed Forces of Malta Band|AFM Band]] – Established in 1970, the AFM Band takes part in official engagements, performing at ceremonial parades, band displays and other band programmes in Malta and Gozo. Besides their duties as bandsmen, the personnel also perform all military duties.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.maltamilitarytattoo.org/en/gallery/gallery/15/armed-forces-of-malta-band.htm |title=Armed Forces of Malta Band Malta {{pipe}} Malta Malta {{pipe}} Gallery {{pipe}} Malta Military tattoo {{pipe}} Tattoos Malta Malta &#124 |website=Malta Military Tattoo Malta}}</ref>
* Revenue Security Corps – assists Government in the prevention of smuggling, the protection of revenue and, when necessary, the investigation of contraventions relating to fiscal and monetary laws. The RSC is also responsible for the security and cash escort duties of commercial banks.
* C2S Company – responsible for the entire communication of the Armed Forces of Malta. Operates the operation center for S&R, internal & external communications, landlines, & IT services. 
* Training School – Training and Development. Initial training (BMT & Cadetship) and career development (JNCOs & SNCOs).

=== Air Wing of the Armed Forces of Malta ===
[[File:MIAS 260915 AFM AW139 08.jpg|thumb|Armed Forces of Malta [[AgustaWestland AW139]] AS1428 at the 2015 [[Malta International Airshow]]]]
{{main article|Air Wing of the Armed Forces of Malta}}

The Air Wing of the Armed Forces of Malta is the aerial component of the current Maltese military. The Air Wing has responsibility for the security of Maltese airspace, conducts [[maritime patrol]] and [[search and rescue]] duties, and provides military assistance to other government departments of Malta. The Air Wing is based at [[Malta International Airport]].

=== Maritime Squadron ===
[[File:US Navy 111205-N-FV216-139 The Armed Forces of Malta counter piracy vessel protection detachment demonstrates aerial boarding procedures during Eur.jpg|thumb|Protector-class patrol boats on anti-piracy training mission in 2011]]
[[File:Malta armed forces marine ships 02.jpg|thumb|Malta armed forces ships]]

{{main article|Maritime Squadron of the Armed Forces of Malta}}

The Maritime Squadron of the Armed Forces of Malta is the naval component of the current Maltese military. The Maritime Squadron has responsibility for the security of Maltese territorial waters, maritime surveillance and law enforcement, as well as search and rescue. It is based at [[Hay Wharf]] (Xatt it-Tiben) in [[Floriana]]. It currently operates 10 patrol vessels and 6 other boats.

=== Volunteer Reserve Force ===
In addition to the regular forces, there is also the '''Volunteer Reserve Force''', which consists of part-time volunteers to support the regulars.

=== Italian Military Mission Malta ===
The presence of the Italian Military Mission (IMM) in Malta has taken form in the shape of technical assistance spread over three periods of time; firstly, between 1973 and 1979, then between 1981 and July 1988, and lastly from July 1988 to 7 November 2016, when its last helicopter left Malta.

IMM personnel resources in Malta totalled 12 officers and 35 NCOs from the three service branches of the Italian Armed Forces. It was also equipped with two AB 212 helicopters, 15 heavy plant vehicles, 60 light all-purpose utility vehicles, radio telecommunications, and weapons.

== Personnel ==
{{see also|Military ranks of Malta}}
The Armed Forces of Malta mainly consist of professional soldiers. There are also a small number of reserve soldiers. Malta does not employ conscription. Volunteers, who want to enlist, need to be citizens of Malta, and between 18–30 years old.<ref>{{cite web |title=Regular Soldier Eligibility Requirements |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/careers/Pages/regular-soldier-requirements.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref> In 2017, there were roughly 1,950 active personnel and 180 reservists.<ref>{{cite book |author1=The International Institute for Strategic Studies |title=The Military Balance 2017 |date=14 February 2017 |publisher=[[Routledge]] |isbn=978-1857439007 |page=137}}</ref>

== Operations ==
Since Malta's entry in the [[European Union]], the AFM has become more engaged in peacekeeping missions. The AFM has participated in 7 overseas operations.
*{{UNO}}
**[[United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon|UNIFIL]], 2007, 2018–present ([[Lebanon]])
*{{EU}}
**[[EUMM Georgia]], since 2008 ([[Georgia (country)|Georgia]])
**[[Operation Atalanta|EUNAVFOR Atalanta]], since 2008 ([[Gulf of Aden]])
**[[European Union Border Assistance Mission Rafah|EUBAM Rafah]], since 2009 ([[Gaza–Egypt border]])
**[[EUTM Somalia]], since 2010 ([[Somalia]])
**EUFOR Libya, 2011 ([[Libya]])
**[[EUNAVFOR Med]], since 2015 ([[Mediterranean Sea]])
**[[Frontex Joint Operation (JO) NAUTILUS]], 2006 ([[Mediterranean Sea]])
**[[Frontex Joint Operation (JO) POSEIDON]], since 2007 ([[Greece]])
**[[Frontex Joint Operation (JO)]], 2013 ([[Bulgaria]])
**[[Frontex Situation Centre]], 2018 ([[Poland]])
*{{TUR}}
**Maritime Control Operation and Maritime Safety Training with [[Turkish Armed Forces]], July 2020<ref>{{Cite web |title=Malta liman ziyareti sırasında SAT Tim personelimiz ve Malta Özel Unsur Komutanlığı personelinin katılımıyla "Denizde Denetim Harekâtı ve Deniz Güvenliği Eğitimleri" icra edildi. #MSB #TSK |last1=T.C. Millî Savunma Bakanlığı |date=Jul 24, 2020 |website=Twitter |url=https://twitter.com/tcsavunma/status/1286689949320962049 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200724160711/https://twitter.com/tcsavunma/status/1286689949320962049 |archive-date= Jul 24, 2020 }}</ref>{{Primary source inline|date=August 2020}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=TCG GEMLİK Fırkateynimizin LA VALETTA/MALTA liman ziyareti kapsamında; La Valetta Büyükelçimiz Kerem A. Kıratlı ve Malta Deniz Filo Komutanı E. Scicluna makamlarında ziyaret edilerek, gemide ağırlandı. Ayrıca Malta'da bulunan Türk Şehitliği de ziyaret edildi. #MSB #TSK |date= Jul 24, 2020 |url=https://twitter.com/tcsavunma/status/1286689865636225029 |access-date=28 July 2020 |publisher=T.C. Millî Savunma Bakanlığı |language=turkish |via=[[Twitter]]}}</ref>{{Primary source inline|date=August 2020}}

== Equipment ==
On land, 1 Regiment is the designated home of the Maltese Infantry with C (Special Duties) Company being at the cutting edge of this unit. The company is being trained and equipped to be able to contribute a platoon for overseas humanitarian and rescue missions attached to an Italian regiment on missions mandated by the UN or the OSCE. Malta has to ensure that the troops are adequately trained and equipped up to Italian army standards for seamless integration within an Italian regiment, able to tackle any foreseeable problems for up to a year. C (Special Duties) Company is also being geared for a quick reaction role, ready for action at a moment's notice should an emergency, such as terrorism, arise.

The kit used by the Maltese foot soldier has changed drastically in recent years. The fiat for change was given to C Company prior to its successful participation in the multi-national Partnership for Peace exercise in 1996. Following Malta's pledge towards the EU's Military Headline Goal in 2000, procurement received another boost.

With funding being a perennial problem, over the years the Force had to rely on varied equipment transferred or financed by several countries. Standardisation was a headache. But matters have improved considerably, especially with regard to light infantry weapons. At one time there were as many as eight different types of pistol and associated ammunition, now there are two, principally the Beretta FS and some Makarov. The army has also bought Heckler and Koch sub-machine guns and, thanks to Chinese assistance, all infantrymen now have their own individual AKM rifle.

The Maltese Infantry soldier is equipped with the latest British Army issue Personal Load Bearing Equipment including both the webbing and bergen as well as the woodland pattern battle dress uniform, Avon S10 respirator and Kevlar ballistic helmet. Protective ballistic vests and night vision goggles are carried when required.

Infantry soldiers have a number of weapons at their disposal including the [[Kalashnikov AK-47]] and [[AKM]] rifles, the [[Heckler and Koch MP-5]] sub-machine guns, the [[Beretta 92|Beretta 92 FS]] pistols, the [[PK machine gun|PKM]] machine gun, as well as the General Purpose Machine Gun [[FN MAG|L7A1]]. Sniper teams are equipped with the [[Accuracy International AWM|Accuracy International]] sniper rifle while the anti-tank troops embedded within the infantry platoons carry the [[RPG 7 rocket launchers|RPG-7 rocket launcher.]]

Several variants of the AKM rifle have been modernized by FAB Defense,<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-07-17 |title=Armed Forces of Malta ~ AFM MultiCam |url=https://www.joint-forces.com/kit-camo/34257-armed-forces-of-malta-afm-multicam |access-date=2024-01-05 |website=Joint Forces News |language=en-GB}}</ref> along with the use of renewable personnel combat equipment from the UK. In addition, the 1st Regiment also adopted the [[SIG MCX]], a new assault rifle for use in special operations. Considering that the AK assault rifle is too powerful and is considered less suitable for [[Close-quarters combat|CQB]].

Eight-man sections are deployed either on Land rovers or Iveco VM-90 trucks. The AFM also operates a number of Bedford trucks which, despite their age, still give excellent service. Suffice to say that these trucks were driven in convoys all the way to Kosovo and back three times in 2001 and not one of them broke down. The Explosives Ordnance Disposal Unit is equipped with two remote controlled Explosive Ordnance Disposal Vehicles – robots used to disable a bomb from a safe distance. The first was bought in 1989 and a second, much more sophisticated one, was bought last year.

The Air Defence Battery forms part of 1st Regiment and operates Bofors 40L/70 anti-aircraft guns and four barrelled ZSU-4 heavy machine guns. The Bofors guns can be operated either manually or electrically and they can be laid on their targets either visually or through radar. The 14.5mm machine guns can only be operated manually but they provide a high rate of fire. Air defence posed particular problems because of the passage of time on the Bofors guns, built in the early 1950s.<ref>{{cite web |title=1 Regiment Maltese Infantry |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/europe/mt-afm-infantry.htm |website=Global Security |access-date=18 December 2016}}</ref>

=== Aircraft ===
''See: [[Air Wing of the Armed Forces of Malta#List of aircraft|AFM aircraft]]''

=== Maritime patrol vessels ===
''See: [[Maritime Squadron of the Armed Forces of Malta#Active vessels of the AFM|AFM maritime patrol vessels]]''

=== Vehicles ===
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|+
|-
! style="width:15%;"|Model
! style="width:0%;"|Image
! style="width:15%;"|Origin
! style="width:15%;"|Type
! style="width:15%;"|Number
! style="width:40%;"|Notes
|-
|[[Land Rover Defender]]
|[[File:Land Rover Defender Netherlands Marine Corps - Flickr - Joost J. Bakker IJmuiden.jpg|150px]]
|{{UK}}
|[[SUV]]
|
| Model 110 – 300TDI.<ref>{{cite web |title=Military Land Rover |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/vehichles/Pages/Military-Land-Rover.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref>
|-
|[[Ford F-350]]
|[[File:Ford_F350_Armed_forces_of_malta.jpg|150px]]
|{{USA}}
|[[Pick-Up Truck]]
|2
| A total of 2 Ford F-350 donated by the USA in conjunction with the two defender class boats for the Maritime section.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/39096/us_donates_two_new_patrol_boats_to_afm#.ZGsT1HaxWNw|title=US donates two new patrol boats to AFM|website=MaltaToday.com.mt}}</ref>
|-
|-
|[[Isuzu D-Max 4WD]]
|[[File:Photo of isuzu malta.png|150px]] 
|{{JAP}}
|[[Pick-Up Truck]]
|23
| A total of 23  Isuzu D-Max 4WD.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofmalta.com/article/armed-forces-get-a-new-fleet-of-vehicles.835037|title=Armed Forces get a new fleet of vehicles|first=Times of|last=Malta|date=28 November 2020|website=Times of Malta}}</ref>
|-
|[[Iveco VM 90]]
|[[File:Iveco-vm90t-torpedo-4x4-truck-gva-221malta.jpg|150px]]
|{{ITA}}
|[[SUV]]
|
|<ref>{{cite web |title=Iveco Multirole Vehicle |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/vehichles/Pages/Iveco-Multirole-Vehicle.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref>
|-
|[[Iveco|Iveco ACM 90]]
|[[File:ACM-EI.JPG|150px]]
|{{ITA}}
|Truck
|
|<ref>{{cite web |title=IVECO Troop Carrier |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/vehichles/Pages/Troop-Carrier.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref>
|-
|[[Iveco Daily]]
|[[File:Nanjing-Iveco Turbo Daily VS.jpg|150px]]
|{{ITA}}
|Van
|
|<ref>{{cite web |title=Military Ambulance |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/vehichles/Pages/Military-Ambulance.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref>
|}

=== Weapons ===
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%;"
|+
|-
! style="width:15%;"|Model
! style="width:0%;"|Image
! style="width:15%;"|Origin
! style="width:15%;"|Type
! style="width:15%;"|Caliber
! style="width:40%;"|Notes
|-
! colspan="6" |Pistols
|-
|[[Beretta 92]]
|[[File:Beretta 92FS hand gun.jpg|150x150px]]
|{{ITA}}
|[[Semi-automatic pistol]]
|[[9×19mm Parabellum]]
|Model Beretta 92FS.<ref>{{cite web |title=Beretta 92FS |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/shortweapons/Pages/Beretta-92FS.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref>
|-
! colspan="6" |Sub-machine guns
|-
|[[Beretta M12]]
|[[File:Beretta mod12s scheda.jpg|150px]]
|{{ITA}}
|[[Submachine gun]]
|[[9×19mm Parabellum]]
|<ref>{{Cite book |last=Ryder |first=Chris |title=The fateful split : Catholics and the Royal Ulster Constabulary |date=2004 |publisher=Methuen |isbn=0-413-77222-5 |location=London |oclc=54344125}}</ref>
|-
|[[Heckler & Koch MP5]]
|[[File:Heckler & Koch MP5-1.jpg|150px]]
|{{FRG}}
|[[Submachine gun]]
|[[9×19mm Parabellum]]
|Models MP5K, MP5A4, and MP5A5.<ref>{{cite web |title=HK MP5 K |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/shortweapons/Pages/HK-MP5-K.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=HK MP5 A4 |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/shortweapons/Pages/HK-MP5-A4.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=HK MP5 A5 |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/shortweapons/Pages/HK-MP5-A5.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref>
|-
! colspan="6" |Rifles and carbines
|-
|[[FN FAL]]
| [[File:FN-FAL Calibre 7.62.jpg|frameless|154x154px]]
|{{BEL}}
|[[Battle rifle]]
|[[7.62×51mm NATO]]
|Used as a parade rifle.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |title=Parade of the Maltese Army, Armed Forces of Malta, in Parade uniform, in the old town of Valetta, on the Republic Street Stock Photo - Alamy |url=https://www.alamy.com/parade-of-the-maltese-army-armed-forces-of-malta-in-parade-uniform-image154589511.html |access-date=2022-12-24 |website=www.alamy.com |language=en}}</ref>
|-
|[[AK-47]]/[[AKM]]
|[[File:Interpolitex 2013 (536-22).jpg|150x150px]]
|{{USSR}}
|[[Assault rifle]]
|[[7.62×39mm]]
|Various versions from different countries. Currently serves as a service rifle.<ref>{{cite web |title=AK Variant |url= https://afm.gov.mt/ak-variant/ |website=afm.gov.mt |date= 23 September 2024 }}</ref>
|-
|[[SIG MCX]]
|[[File:SIG-MCX-Rifle.jpeg|frameless|150x150px]]
|{{SWI}}
|[[Assault rifle]],
[[Carbine]]
|[[5.56×45mm NATO]]
|Used by 1st Regiment C Company.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Malta {{!}} Latest News Headlines {{!}} Page 2 |url=https://www.smh.com.au/topic/malta-c8c |access-date=2022-12-24 |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en}}</ref>
|-
|[[Beretta ARX160]]{{cn|date=March 2024}}
|[[File:Beretta AR with ACOG.jpg|frameless|155x155px]]
|{{ITA}}
|[[Assault rifle]]
|[[5.56×45mm NATO]]
|
|-
! colspan="6" |Machine guns
|-
|[[PK machine gun]]
|[[File:PKM - OSN Saturn (3).jpg|frameless|152x152px]]
|{{USSR}}<br />{{CHN}}
|[[General-purpose machine gun]]
|[[7.62×54mmR]]
|Some Chinese variants in service.<ref>{{cite web |title=PK GPMG |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/supportweapons/Pages/PK-GPMG.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref><ref name=:"maltatoday" />
|-
|[[FN MAG|L7A1]] 
|[[File:FN MAG white background.jpg|150x150px]]
|{{BEL}} <br> {{UK}}
|[[General-purpose machine gun]]
|[[7.62×51mm NATO]]
|<ref>{{cite web |title=FN MAG GPMG |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/supportweapons/Pages/FN-MAG-GPMG.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref>
|-
|[[M2 Browning]]
|[[File:M2 Browning, Musée de l'Armée.jpg|150px]]
|{{USA}}
|[[Heavy machine gun]]
|[[.50 BMG]]
|<ref>{{cite web |title=Browning .50 Cal |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/supportweapons/Pages/Browning-50-Cal.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref>
|-
! colspan="6" |Sniper rifles
|-
|[[Heckler & Koch HK417|G28]]
|[[File:20131223 G28 Afghanistan.jpg|frameless|157x157px]]
|{{DEU}}
|[[Designated marksman rifle]]
|[[7.62×51mm NATO]]
|
|-
|[[Accuracy International Arctic Warfare]]
|[[File:AWM-338-white.jpg|150px]]
|{{UK}}
|[[Sniper rifle]]
|[[7.62×51mm NATO]]<hr>[[.300 Winchester Magnum]]
|Two variants with different calibers in service.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sniper Rifle |url=https://afm.gov.mt/en/equipment/shortweapons/Pages/sniper-rifle.aspx |website=afm.gov.mt}}</ref>
|-
|AX-308 
|[[File:AXMC308 Malaysian Army (a) (cropped).jpg|frameless|160x160px]]
|{{UK}}
|[[Sniper rifle]]
|[[7.62×51mm NATO]]<hr>[[.300 Winchester Magnum]]
|
|-
! colspan="6" |Rocket grenade and mortars
|-
|[[Type 69 RPG]]
|[[File:Rpg-7.jpg|150px]]
|{{CHN}}
|[[Rocket-propelled grenade]]
|40mm
|12 RPG-7M donated by China. Not in active use.<ref name=:"maltatoday"/>
|-
|[[82-BM-37]]
|[[File:Chinese 82mm type 53 mortar1.jpg|150px]]
|{{CHN}}
|[[Mortar (weapon)|Mortar]]
|82mm
|26 mortars donated by China. Not in active use.<ref name=:"maltatoday">{{cite web |last1=Agius |first1=Matthew |title=Personnel reveal shortcomings inside Maltese armed forces |url=https://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/88089/personnel_reveal_shortcomings_inside_maltese_armed_forces |website=maltatoday.com |date=14 July 2018}}</ref>
|-
|[[L16 81mm mortar]]
|[[File:81mm L16 mortier.jpg|frameless|157x157px]]
|{{UK}}
|[[Mortar (weapon)|Mortar]]
|81mm
|
|-
! colspan="6" |Artillery
|-
|[[Ordnance QF 25-pounder]]
|[[Image:25_pounder_used_by_AFM_for_cerimonial_purposes.jpg|150px]]
|{{UK}}
|[[Field gun]]/[[Howitzer]]
|88mm
|Used for ceremonial purposes only.{{citation needed|date=August 2023}}
|-
! colspan="6" |Anti-aircraft Guns
|-
|[[ZPU]]
|[[Image:ZPU_AFM.jpg|150px]]
|{{USSR}}<br />{{DPRK}}
|[[Anti-aircraft warfare|Anti-aircraft gun]]
|[[14.5×114mm]]
|50 gifted by North Korea in 1986. Not in active use.<ref name=:"maltatoday"/>
|-
|[[Bofors 40 mm Automatic Gun L/70]]
|[[File:Bofors automatic gun L70.png|150px]]
|{{SWE}}
|[[Anti-aircraft warfare|Anti-aircraft gun]]
|40mm
|<ref name=:"maltatoday"/>
|}

=== Uniform and personal equipment ===
{| class="wikitable"
! Make
! Origin
! Type
|-
| US [[MultiCam]] || {{USA}} || Battledress
|-
| [[US Woodland]] || {{USA}} || Battledress
|-
| [[Desert Camouflage Uniform]] || {{USA}} || Battledress
|-
| [[Multi-Terrain Pattern]] || {{UK}} || Battledress
|-
| No. 7: Warm weather barrack dress || {{UK}} || Barrack dress
|-
| [[58 pattern webbing]] || {{UK}} || Webbing
|-
| [[Personal load carrying equipment]] || {{UK}} || Webbing used by C(SD)Company
|-
| Arktis webbing || {{UK}} || Webbing used by C(SD)Company
|-
| No. 2: Service dress (temperate parade uniform) || {{UK}} || Parade uniform
|-
| No. 3: Warm weather ceremonial uniform || {{UK}} || Parade uniform
|-
| Navy blue beret || {{UK}} || Beret
|-
| [[SPECTRA helmet]] || {{FRA}} || Helmet
|-
| Sistema Compositi SEPT-2 PLUS || {{ITA}} || Helmet
|-
| [[S10 NBC Respirator]] || {{UK}} || Gas mask
|}

The AFM wears a single [[cap badge]], based on that of the Royal Malta Artillery, which consists of a gun, similar to that worn by the [[Royal Artillery]] but without the crown, superimposed onto a [[Maltese Cross]], with the motto "Tutela Bellicæ Virtutis" underneath.

== References ==
{{reflist|2}}

== External links ==
{{commons category|Military of Malta}}
* [http://afm.gov.mt Armed Forces of Malta]
* [http://www.forgallantry.corpidelite.net/ For Gallantry] Special forces and counterterrorism units of the AFM

{{Malta topics}}
{{Border guards}}
{{Military of Europe}}
{{Military equipment of Europe}}
{{Military history of Europe}}
{{Militaries of European Union member states}}

[[Category:Military of Malta]]
[[Category:Military units and formations established in 1973]]