SLINEX-26 concludes in Visakhapatnam on successful note
The 13th edition of the Sri Lanka–India naval exercise, SLINEX-26, concluded in Visakhapatnam, India, on 21 September 2026.
The bilateral exercise aimed to enhance maritime cooperation, operational coordination, and mutual understanding between the two navies under the operational supervision of the Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command.
Sri Lanka Navy deployed the Offshore Patrol Vessel SLNS Sindurala for the maneuvers, while the Indian Navy was represented by the Anti-submarine Warfare Corvette INS Kavaratti and the Fleet Tanker INS Jyoti.
The bilateral programme was conducted in two distinct phases: harbour and sea. During the harbour phase in Visakhapatnam, crew members engaged in professional interactions, cross-deck ship visits, subject matter expert exchanges, and sports activities.
The sea phase off India's eastern coast involved complex naval drills designed to test and refine tactical interoperability. Participating units conducted live surface firing exercises, tactical maneuvering drills, anti-piracy response operations, and cross-deck helicopter maneuvers.
The successful completion of SLINEX-26 underlines the shared commitment of both nations to maintain a safe, peaceful, and stable maritime environment and ensure the security of vital sea lanes in the Indian Ocean region.