Commander of the Navy embarks on visit to Naval Dockyard, Trincomalee

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera embarked on a formal visit to the Naval Dockyard, Trincomalee on 26th and 27th October 2024. During the visit, the Navy Chief was accompanied by the Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Damian Fernando. The visit highlighted key welfare, construction, and operational progress in the Eastern Naval Command, where Vice Admiral Perera also addressed officers, officer under trainees, and sailors regarding the role of the Sri Lanka Navy.

In his address, the Commander of the Navy highlighted the nation’s steady recovery from recent challenges, expressing optimism that economic hardships will gradually ease. He acknowledged that recent financial constraints have impacted training budgets but assured that steps are underway to secure future funding for these critical programmes. Emphasizing financial prudence, he urged naval personnel to manage their personal finances carefully, reflecting the current economic climate. The Commander of the Navy also noted that the Navy has effectively directed funds towards expanding operational capabilities and infrastructure development with strategic management.

Emphasizing the Navy’s critical role in combating narcotics smuggling on the high seas, he highlighted the importance of protecting the younger generation from the dangers of drugs. The Commander of the Navy also pointed to the Navy’s proactive approach to addressing non-traditional maritime threats, ensuring freedom of navigation, and conducting search and rescue operations in both Sri Lankan and international waters-efforts that have garnered global recognition. He proudly acknowledged the Navy's success in building international partnerships, especially its close collaboration with the Combined Maritime Forces. He announced that next year, the Navy will assume command of Combined Task Force 154, a milestone that reflects its commitment to training other Combined Task Forces to enhance regional and global maritime security.

Vice Admiral Perera emphasized the Navy's fleet expansion through strengthened international partnerships, announcing an Offshore Patrol Vessel soon to join the ranks. He noted that completing the floating dock under construction in Trincomalee will help the government save significantly on ship and vessel maintenance costs. Looking forward, he expressed confidence that the National Hydrographic Office, boosted by a vessel and equipment from Australia, will contribute to the national economy. Additionally, with international support, the Navy will acquire two Recompression Chambers for diving operations, benefiting both local and international diving tourists. These facilities, planned for Colombo and the Southern Province, are expected to enhance Sri Lanka's tourism appeal, he said.

He underscored the vital role of the armed forces in emergency response, highlighting that many nations rely on specialized teams to deliver public assistance in times of crisis. In Sri Lanka, he noted, the armed forces stand as the only professionally trained group prepared for disaster and emergency relief operations. He stressed the importance of sustaining this crucial workforce during peacetime to ensure they are always prepared for any situation. Additionally, he went on to mention about the Navy's strategic vision for 2030-a scientifically designed roadmap focused on enhancing the Sri Lanka Navy’s fleet, personnel, and technology to support the nation’s development goals.

Vice Admiral Perera underscored the vital importance of discipline and the necessity of maintaining the Navy's goodwill at all times. He encouraged naval personnel to take advantage of the welfare resources provided by the Welfare Directorate and Seva Vanitha Unit to tackle financial challenges, advising against illegal activities. He announced plans to enhance welfare for Navy members and their families through the expansion of married quarters facilities in the Eastern, Western, and Southern Commands. Additionally, a new mechanism for allocating married quarters will be introduced in the future, he opined. Vice Admiral Perera also called on every naval member to commit to their responsibilities and emphasized that the Sri Lanka Navy has the potential to develop the country’s maritime tourism infrastructure. He noted that even after retirement, naval personnel can contribute significantly to this sector.

On his official visit, Vice Admiral Perera inspected ongoing construction and welfare projects at the Naval Dockyard, providing directives to expedite their completion.

A group of senior and junior officers as well as sailors from the Navy Headquarters and Eastern Naval Command were present on these occasions.