Colombo/New Delhi: The 12th edition of the Sri Lanka–India Naval Exercise (SLINEX-2025) began in Colombo on August 14, reinforcing the growing maritime partnership between the two nations. The five-day exercise will run until August 18, highlighting joint commitment to regional security and cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
Indian Navy ships INS Rana, a guided missile destroyer, and INS Jyoti, a fleet tanker, docked at Colombo Port for the event. Representing Sri Lanka are SLNS Vijayabahu and SLNS Sayura, advanced offshore patrol vessels supported by Sri Lanka Air Force BEL 412 helicopters. The inclusion of Special Forces from both navies adds a multidimensional edge to the exercise.
Harbour Phase: Building Trust and Cooperation
The harbour phase, conducted from August 14–16, includes professional interactions, subject-matter expert exchanges, simulator training, cultural events, yoga sessions, and sporting fixtures. These engagements foster camaraderie, deepen mutual understanding, and strengthen bilateral bonds at both personal and professional levels.
Sea Phase: Complex Maritime Operations
From August 17–18, the sea phase will take place off Colombo’s coast, focusing on operational coordination and advanced naval drills. Key activities include:
- Surface firing and tactical manoeuvres
- Navigation and seamanship exercises
- Multi-ship communication protocols
- Helicopter operations and cross-deck flying
- Search and rescue missions
- Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations
- Underway replenishment at sea
The participation of Special Forces enhances maritime interdiction, anti-piracy, and counter-smuggling capabilities, strengthening joint readiness against non-traditional threats.
Expanding Maritime Engagement
Launched in 2005, SLINEX alternates annually between Indian and Sri Lankan waters. It aims to enhance interoperability, share best practices, and advance tactical proficiency. In recent years, cooperation has expanded to include technical support and asset deployments, notably India’s provision of Dornier patrol aircraft to bolster Sri Lanka’s maritime surveillance.
Neighbourhood First and SAGAR in Action
The exercise embodies India’s Neighbourhood First policy and its vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) under the MAHASAGAR initiative. By jointly addressing threats such as piracy, smuggling, and illegal fishing, India and Sri Lanka reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding the Indian Ocean Region and promoting collective maritime security.
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