The Indian Navy and the Sri Lanka Navy have officially commenced the 13th edition of their bilateral maritime exercise, SLINEX-26, off the strategic east coast of Visakhapatnam. The annual exercise aims to bolster operational interoperability, enhance mutual trust, and reinforce joint maritime capabilities between the two neighboring nations.
Key Highlights
- Strengthening Naval Ties: The 13th iteration of SLINEX underscores deep-rooted defense cooperation and tactical synergy between India and Sri Lanka.
- Strategic Venue: Hosted under the auspices of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam.
- Comprehensive Drills: Features two distinct phases—a Harbour Phase focused on professional exchanges and planning, followed by a high-intensity Sea Phase.
- Regional Security Vision: Aligns with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative.
Over the course of the exercise, participating naval ships, maritime patrol aircraft, and specialized personnel from both forces will undergo rigorous joint maneuvers. Scheduled drills include cross-deck helicopter operations, live-weapon firings, seamanship evolutions, and tactical communication exercises aimed at addressing common maritime threats.
SLINEX continues to play a critical role in promoting rules-based maritime order, ensuring the safety of vital sea lines of communication, and consolidating regional security across the Indian Ocean Region.