SLINEX-25 concludes, both navies sharpened operational preparedness

The 12th edition of the Sri Lanka–India Naval Exercise (SLINEX-25) drew to a successful close on 18 Aug 25 in the western seas off Colombo.

As both the navies carry out a wide spectrum of operations across the ocean region to fulfill the nations’ and regional maritime aspirations, these regular maritime exercises play a vital role in sustaining their operational readiness by enhancing its capabilities, advancing technology and sharpening professional skills.

Further, the annual Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise strengthens cooperation and interoperability between the two navies, reaffirming their shared commitment to safeguarding security in the Indian Ocean Region. In SLINEX-25, the Sri Lanka Navy was represented by the Offshore Patrol Vessels SLNS Vijayabahu and SLNS Sayura, while the Sri Lanka Air Force contributed a Bell 412 helicopter. The Indian Navy participated with the tanker-class INS Jyoti and the destroyer-class INS Rana.

Conducted in a spirit of professionalism, both harbour and sea phases of the exercise strengthened the seamless coordination and readiness of the Indian and Sri Lanka naval forces.

On the sidelines of SLINEX-25, Dr. Satyanjal Pandey, Deputy High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, embarked on the visiting Indian Naval Ships in Colombo. Additionally , the Indian High Commissioner, H.E. Santosh Jha, along with the Commanding Officers of the ships, honoured the fallen by placing floral tributes at the Indian Peace Keeping Force Memorial in Battaramulla. Adding a vibrant touch of camaraderie, Indian Navy personnel also joined a series of goodwill events hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy, from training exchanges and friendly sports events to cultural visits and sightseeing tours, strengthening cooperation and friendship between the two navies.

As Sri Lanka and India continue to work as partners in promoting maritime security, SLINEX serves as a vital platform to bolster collective readiness against a wide range of non-traditional maritime challenges and to safeguard peace and stability in the wider Indian Ocean Region.