U.S. delivers $4 million satellite communication system to Sri Lanka Navy

Colombo, June 23 (Daily Mirror) - The United States has delivered an advanced Fleet Broadband satellite communication system to the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN), enhancing maritime connectivity and operational capabilities across its Offshore Patrol Fleet.

The announcement was made during a special reception held aboard SLNS Gajabahu at the Port of Colombo on June 22, attended by Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Dr. S. Paul Kapur, and senior officials from both countries.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Kapur announced that the United States would provide Fleet Broadband satellite communications technology to strengthen Sri Lanka’s maritime connectivity along some of the world’s busiest shipping routes. 

The communication system, valued at approximately US$4 million, will be installed across the Navy’s Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).

The advanced system will enable secure ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications, providing reliable voice, data and information exchange even when vessels operate beyond coastal coverage areas. It will also support real-time connectivity between naval headquarters, aircraft and vessels deployed across the Indian Ocean Region.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Defence Minister Jayasekara said the new capability would significantly enhance Sri Lanka’s maritime domain awareness while further strengthening defence cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United States.

He noted that the Navy plays a vital role in monitoring activities across strategically important maritime routes and said the Fleet Broadband system would improve uninterrupted fleet communications, real-time situational awareness and information sharing with regional partners.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the enhanced communication capability is expected to support more coordinated responses to illicit maritime activities while helping ensure the security and reliability of international shipping lanes.

The event was also attended by U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Jayne Howell, senior officials from the U.S. Embassy, the Ministry of Defence and the Sri Lanka Navy.