Indian and Sri Lankan navies conducted air operations, maritime drills and special forces exercises during SLINEX-26 off Visakhapatnam. The exercise focused on strengthening interoperability and maritime cooperation between the two countries…reports Asianlite News Desk
The Indian Navy and Sri Lanka Navy conducted seamanship exercises, air operations, night replenishment at sea and special forces drills during the sea phase of bilateral maritime exercise SLINEX-26 off Visakhapatnam.
The 13th edition of SLINEX-26 began on September 17 with a harbour phase before moving into sea-based activities.
“The Indian Navy and Sri Lanka Navy undertaking seamanship evolutions, air operations, night replenishment at sea and Special Forces drills, including VBSS and slithering operations,” the Indian Navy said in a post on X.
VBSS refers to visit, board, search and seizure operations, while slithering operations involve the deployment of personnel from aircraft.
The Navy said the exercises enhanced interoperability and operational coordination between the two forces and concluded the latest edition of the bilateral exercise.
During the harbour phase, personnel from both navies took part in professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, Underway Replenishment training, yoga sessions and sporting activities.
“Capt PHSS Appuhamy, CO SLNS Sindurala, also called on RAdm Vishal Bishnoi, FOCEF, EasternSword, furthering professional dialogue and mutual understanding,” the Indian Navy said.
The Navy added that the engagements supported interoperability, camaraderie and the exchange of best practices between the two forces.
Sri Lankan Naval Ship Sindurala arrived at Visakhapatnam on September 17 to participate in the exercise and was formally welcomed by the Indian Navy in accordance with naval traditions.
The Indian Navy was represented by INS Kavaratti, an indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvette, and INS Jyoti, a Fleet Tanker.
The Ministry of Defence said SLINEX had evolved since it was conceptualised in 2005 into an important forum for maritime cooperation, interoperability and mutual understanding between the two navies.
The exercise is intended to strengthen the maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka and support their shared commitment to security in the Indian Ocean Region.
According to the Ministry of Defence, SLINEX-26 is aligned with India’s MAHASAGAR vision and reinforces its commitment to a secure, stable and inclusive maritime environment.
The exercise also provides opportunities for personnel from both navies to conduct professional exchanges and joint activities, supporting greater familiarity and coordination between the two forces.
SLINEX-26 concluded after the sea phase, marking another round of bilateral naval engagement between India and Sri Lanka.
