The navies of India and Sri Lanka have commenced the joint maritime exercise SLINEX-26, aimed at bolstering operational coordination, mutual understanding, and strategic cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
Key Highlights
- Joint maneuvers designed to enhance tactical interoperability between the Indian Navy and Sri Lanka Navy.
- Multi-phased schedule encompassing professional harbour interactions and high-intensity sea exercises.
- Focus on maritime domain awareness, anti-piracy operations, seamanship drills, and helicopter cross-deck operations.
The annual exercise features a diverse array of naval platforms, including guided-missile frigates, offshore patrol vessels, and maritime surveillance aircraft. Structured in two distinct phases—harbour and sea—SLINEX-26 provides a platform for defense personnel to share best practices, conduct joint planning, and build operational synergy.
During the harbour phase, crew members engage in subject matter expert exchanges, cross-deck visits, and collaborative briefings. The subsequent sea phase pushes tactical capabilities further with complex surface firing drills, communication exercises, and coordinated search-and-rescue scenarios. As maritime challenges in the region continue to evolve, the SLINEX series remains a cornerstone of bilateral defense ties, underscoring both nations’ commitment to a safe, secure, and stable Indian Ocean.