Initial training (BMT & Cadetship) and career development (JNCO's & SNCO's). 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 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 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. In 2017, there were roughly 1,950 active personnel and 180 reservists. 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. UNIFIL, 2007, 2018–present (Lebanon) EUMM Georgia, since 2008 (Georgia) EUNAVFOR Atalanta, since 2008 (Gulf of Aden) 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,