Aiming to strengthen India-Sri Lanka naval ties, the 2024 edition of the Sri Lanka–India Exercise (SLINEX) is scheduled to take place in Visakhapatnam between December 17 and 20.
The Indian Navy’s INS Sumitra, a naval offshore patrol vessel, will participate alongside a Special Forces team. Sri Lanka will deploy SLNS Sayura, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, with its own Special Forces team.
The exercise will be conducted in two phases — the harbour phase and the sea phase. The Harbour phase that is conducted to build camaraderie will be held on December 17 and 18, while the Sea phase, which includes joint operations, will be conducted on December 19 and 20.
Established in 2005, SLINEX highlights the robust maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, fostering interoperability and strengthening naval ties.
Over the years, SLINEX has expanded in scope and complexity, becoming a vital platform for both navies to share best practices and build operational synergy. The 2024 edition aims to strengthen the maritime partnership between the two nations and promote a safe, rules-based maritime environment in the region.
The exercise will commence with an inaugural ceremony on Tuesday (December 17), symbolising the enduring commitment of India and Sri Lanka to regional maritime security and stability.
The SLINEX was scheduled a day after Sri Lankan President, Anura Kumara Disanayaka arrived in India on his maiden visit and met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday.
