India and Sri Lanka Navies Showcase Strength in Joint Maritime Exercise

Colombo, October 30 (Daily Kiran) : Indian naval ships have recently conducted a significant maritime exercise with the Sri Lankan Navy. This operation featured three major vessels from India: INS Teer, INS Sujata, and the Indian Coast Guard ship ICGS Sarathi. During the exercise, both navies engaged in coordinated activities at sea.

The joint drill aimed to enhance synergy and strengthen the capabilities of both forces in conducting maritime operations. This was the first training squadron for the Indian Navy involved in such an exercise.

On October 29, the training squadron completed a successful visit to Colombo, Sri Lanka, before departing for further operations. During this visit, INS Teer, INS Sujata, and ICGS Sarathi participated in various activities alongside the Sri Lankan Navy. On their return, the three ships conducted a joint maritime exercise with the Sri Lankan vessel SLNS Vijayabahu.

The purpose of the visit to Colombo extended beyond merely strengthening naval ties. It also aimed to familiarize the naval personnel of both countries with each other’s experiences and operational methodologies. Senior officers from the training squadron met with the commander of the Sri Lankan Navy’s Western Naval Area, emphasizing the importance of enhancing defense cooperation and maritime partnership.

Indian naval trainees visited the naval and maritime academy in Trincomalee, where they exchanged experiences with Sri Lankan trainees. In return, Sri Lankan trainees visited Indian ships, gaining insights into the training facilities and activities available on board. This exchange provided future naval officers from both nations an opportunity to understand each other’s training systems and operations.

Environmental protection was also a key message during this visit. Indian navy personnel participated in a beach cleanup initiative in Colombo. Additionally, the three ships opened their doors to local residents and members of the Indian community residing in Sri Lanka, allowing them to interact with sailors and learn about the Indian Navy’s training and operational activities. A joint maritime exercise marked the farewell from Colombo, highlighting a significant milestone of the visit.

The Indian ships and SLNS Vijayabahu participated in the PASSEX exercise, further exemplifying the strong maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka. Both countries reiterated their commitment to regional maritime security, mutual cooperation, and naval capacity building. According to the Indian Navy, this aligns with India’s oceanic vision, which aims to promote security and development through collaborative efforts across various domains.