Joint Indo-Sri Lanka Naval Exercise

18 September 2011 02:30 pm

The Sri Lanka Navy and Indian Navy will conduct a joint naval exercise off Trincomalee from tomorrow until the September 24.The exercise code-named “SLINEX II” is aimed at enhancing interoperability of the two Navies.

It will pave the way for both Navies to rehearse the concept of joint naval operations and enhance their own skills in order to gain from each other’s experience.

Two Offshore Patrol Vessels, one Fast Missile Vessel, two Fast Gun Boats and six Fast Attack Crafts from the Sri Lankan Navy will participate at the exercise.

The Indian Navy will be represented by one Destroyer, one Frigate, one Missile Corvette, one Landing Ship Tank and two Fast Attack Craft along with one Maritime Patrol Aircraft.

Prior to the exercise joint staff level talks between the Sri Lanka and Indian Navies in taking preventive measures to curb potential threats of drug trafficking, arms and human smuggling in the Palk Bay and Palk Straits to enhance maritime security were discussed.

Delegates mainly focused on operational and training as well as logistics and technical matters concerning the two Navies.

A wide range of issues of bilateral importance were also discussed with a view to strengthen the friendly ties between the Navies of the two neighbouring countries. (Supun Dias)