The Armed Forces of Malta has announced the appointment of Colonel James Grech to the position of Deputy Commander.

Colonel Grech joined the Armed Forces of Malta in 1999. After graduating from the German Naval Academy in Flensburg-Mürwik, Germany, he served in a wide range of roles within the AFM.

His operational experience includes command of several naval vessels, notably the Offshore Patrol Vessel P61, and active participation in international naval exercises, search and rescue missions, and maritime surveillance operations with a strong focus on maritime security.

In recent years, Colonel Grech has held a number of senior staff appointments, most recently serving as Head of Branch responsible for Operations, Plans, and Intelligence.

He is a graduate of the Naval Staff College course at the Maritime War College in Venice, Italy, and also holds an Advanced Diploma in Maritime Law from the IMO International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI).

The Armed Forces of Malta thanked the outgoing Deputy Commander, Colonel Edric Zahra, for his dedicated years of service and extend best wishes for his future endeavours.