MDF deploys both within and outside the country from time to time. Currently, Malawi has a contingent operating under the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) Force Intervention Brigade (FIB). This is mandated to conduct targetted offensive operations against Illegal Armed Groups (IAGs) operating in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Malawi also has a battalion under the Southern African Community Mission in the Demorcatic Republic of the Congo (SAMIDRC)

Besides the contingents, Malawi has Military Observers and Staff Officers in various countries.