AFM inaugurates new data centre

The Armed Forces of Malta have inaugurated a new data centre and upgrade to its microwave link network in a €2 million project, largely financed by EU funds.

The microwave link network has been upgraded to cover all coastal areas across Malta and Gozo  and AFM locations with advance encrypted communications.

To support this network, a data centre was built at the AFM’s Barracks in Luqa to host information systems to aid the AFMs surveillance and border operations.

Home affairs minister Carmelo Abela toasted the project, stating that “the dream of having an army equipped with the latest digital communications technology systems has become a reality”.

“Communications information system facilities constitute an important component in modern military operations, as they provide secure voice and data communication among various AFM assets,” he said.

He argued that the AFM previously had an “obsolete” microwave link network, that was installed 15 years ago and lacked proper hosting facilities to host information system equipment.

Parliamentary Secretary for EU funds Ian Borg stated that the AFM will benefit almost €53 million in EU funds, accounting for 70% of the total allocation of EU funds allocated for border protection, immigration and security under the 2007-13 programme.

“Through this investment, the country’s security will be met,” he said.

AFM Brigadier Jeffrey Curmi said that the project is part of the AFM’s digital modernisation process and that the infrastructure, is vital for the force’s day-to-day functioning.