Navy and NARA sign MOU on operational management of Research Vessel Samuddrika

In a significant step towards enhancing Sri Lanka's maritime research and operational capabilities, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on 27 Mar 25 between the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) and the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) for the operational management and maintenance of the Research Vessel (RV) Samuddrika.

This MOU between SLN and NARA is a vital step toward ensuring that Sri Lanka’s maritime research endeavours, equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to address the challenges and opportunities. With the collective support of Sri Lanka's leading maritime authorities, the research vessel is now set to play a key role in the future of marine science and development in Sri Lankan waters.

The MOU was formally signed by the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda and the Chairman of NARA, Prof. Sanath Hettiarachchi. National Hydrographer of Sri Lanka, Rear Admiral Kosala Warnakulasooriya and a group of officials from NARA were also present on this occasion.