Course of Integrated Maritime Skills Training (IMS) commences in Trincomalee
 

A course of Integrated Maritime Skills Training (IMS) commenced in Trincomalee yesterday (03^rd September 2018). The opening address of the course was held at the auditorium of Special Boat Squadron, Naval Dockyard and it was attended by Captain Damian Fernando, Commander 4^th Fast Attack Flotilla, Captain Aruna Weerasinghe, Commanding Officer Special Boat Squadron and members from the U.S. Pacific Command’s Counterdrug Task Force, Joint Interagency Task Force West (JIATF West).

Thirty two (32) Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) personnel from the 4^th Fast Attack Flotilla (16) and the Special Boat Squadron (16) are expected to join this training programme. The course is conducted by seven (07) trainers of the U.S. Pacific Command’s Counterdrug Task Force, JIATF West. The programme will be held as part of mutual understanding and agreements for training and support requirements of both countries. The two week long course mainly focuses on interview techniques, drug recognition, use of force, drug testing, mission planning and search techniques. Accordingly, the module will help develop professional skills and exchange of knowledge between personnel of JIATF West and SLN in the field of Maritime Crimes. The course is scheduled to terminate on 14^th September 2018.