Maritime diplomacy and regional security took centre stage at the 12th edition of the India-Sri Lanka bilateral naval exercise, SLINEX-25, which concluded in Colombo on August 18. The week-long engagement brought together advanced fleets, professional exchanges, and cultural initiatives aimed at deepening naval cooperation and fostering people-to-people ties.
Representing India, the Eastern Fleet deployed INS Jyoti and INS Rana, while Sri Lanka fielded its advanced offshore patrol vessels SLNS Gajabahu and SLNS Vijayabahu. The exercise unfolded in two phases, a harbour phase at Colombo from August 14 to 16, followed by a sea phase from August 17 to 18.
During their arrival, the commanding officers of the Indian vessels called on Rear Admiral Chandima Silva Rana, Commander of the Western Naval Area, for discussions on expanding cooperation and sharing best practices. They also paid homage at the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial, honouring Indian soldiers who lost their lives during peacekeeping operations between 1987 and 1990.
In Colombo, the Indian naval ships opened their decks to visitors, including Sri Lankan naval personnel, government officials, students, and members of the Indian diaspora. The open ship display highlighted India’s naval capabilities, technological edge, and maritime traditions, serving as a bridge to enhance understanding beyond military exchanges.
The harbour phase featured professional interactions, cross-training on firefighting, damage control, aviation operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief. Friendly sporting events and cultural exchanges added to the people-centric approach of the exercise, while a pre-sail conference laid the foundation for the sea drills.
At sea, the participating fleets executed advanced operational drills, including joint manoeuvres, gunnery firing, navigation, seamanship evolutions, communication protocols, and Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations. Refuelling exercises demonstrated tactical interoperability, while coordinated drills reinforced the shared goal of securing maritime domains.
Officials noted that the exercise was not only a display of naval strength but also a statement of collective resolve towards ensuring security in the Indian Ocean. The activities reflected the vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), underscoring the role of India-Sri Lanka cooperation in shaping a stable maritime neighbourhood.
As the ships departed Colombo, SLINEX-25 added another chapter to the growing maritime partnership between the two nations. Beyond strategy and drills, the initiative showcased how naval diplomacy can blend hard security with softer dimensions of trust, culture, and community engagement.
