Colombo: Indian Defence Ministry announced the arrival of two Indian Naval ships in Colombo to participate in the Sri Lanka India Naval Exercise (SLINEX-25). The exercise is scheduled to take place from August 14 to 18.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the Indian Defence Ministry stated that Indian Naval Ships Rana, a Guided Missile Destroyer, and INS Jyoti, a Fleet Tanker, will join the 12th edition of SLINEX-25. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, maritime cooperation, and the exchange of best practices through joint multi-faceted maritime operations. Sri Lankan Naval Ships Gajabahu and Vijayabahu, which are Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessels, will participate on behalf of the Sri Lankan Navy.
During the harbour phase of the exercise, there will be professional interactions, Subject Matter Expert Exchange, and cultural and social exchanges to strengthen the bonds of friendship between the two navies. The sea phase will include gunnery firing serials, communication protocols, navigation, seamanship evolutions, Visit Board Search and Seizure, and fueling at sea.
The SLINEX maritime exercise represents the deep engagement between India and Sri Lanka, reinforcing cooperation in the maritime domain in line with India's policy of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. Launched in 2005, SLINEX has bolstered maritime cooperation between the two countries for nearly two decades. The previous edition of the naval exercise was held in the Indian port city of Visakhapatnam from December 17 to 20.