Enhancing Naval Partnership: Joint Naval Exercise Between India and Sri Lanka Bolsters Maritime Collaboration
The 12th edition of the Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise (SLINEX-25) is set to take place from August 14 to 18, with the aim of enhancing cooperation, fostering tactical interoperability, and strengthening maritime security collaboration between the two navies[1][3].
During the exercise, the Indian Naval Ships INS Rana (a Guided Missile Destroyer) and INS Jyoti (Fleet Tanker) will join forces with the Sri Lankan Navy's SLNS Gajabahu and Vijayabahu (Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessels) in a series of multifaceted maritime operations[1][3]. The naval drills planned during the sea phase include gunnery firing serials, communication protocols, navigation, seamanship evolutions, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS), and fuelling at sea[1][3].
The harbour phase of the exercise will take place in Colombo, and will feature professional interactions, Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE), sharing of best practices, cultural and social exchanges, yoga sessions, and sporting events[1][3]. The ship's engagements during the port call include interactions with civil dignitaries at Naples, cross-deck visits, discussions with senior Italian Navy functionaries, and cultural events in honor of Indo-Italian relations[1][3].
In addition to the main exercise, the Indian Navy's INS Tamal, the latest stealth frigate, will also be participating in SLINEX-25. The ship was at Naples during its return passage to India after commissioning in Russia on July 1, 2023[1]. The visit of INS Tamal to Naples underscores the deepening of bilateral relations between India and Italy, following their elevation to a 'Strategic Partnership' in 2023[1].
SLINEX reflects the India-Sri Lanka maritime cooperation under India's MAHASAGAR policy (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), emphasizing regional security and growth[2][3]. The exercise deepens bilateral naval ties and operational coordination, enabling both countries to effectively counter maritime security threats, including piracy, smuggling, and maritime terrorism[1][3][5]. It also enhances joint readiness for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, with India recognized as a first responder for Sri Lanka in such scenarios, reinforcing mutual support[2].
The exercise strengthens overall regional security architecture in the Indian Ocean by promoting interoperability between two important maritime nations[1][3]. SLINEX-25 serves as a critical platform for enhancing tactical naval cooperation, building trust, and advancing strategic maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka, thereby contributing significantly to regional maritime security and collaboration[1][2][3].
The focus of the strategic partnership is on expanded cooperation in Defence, Energy, and Technology[1]. The previous edition of SLINEX was conducted at Visakhapatnam, India, from 17 to 20 December 24[1]. SLINEX is a bilateral naval exercise that has been conducted between India and Sri Lanka since 2005[1]. The exercise notably included tribute to Indian Peace Keeping Force personnel, symbolizing shared history and goodwill[2].
During the sea phase, the ships will also participate in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with ITS Trieste, Landing Platform Dock of the Italian Navy, before entering harbor at Naples[1]. The aim of the visit is to enhance interoperability and jointmanship between the Indian and Italian navies[1].
In conclusion, SLINEX-25 is a significant event in the ongoing cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, with the aim of strengthening maritime security, improving operational coordination, and building trust between the two navies. The exercise underscores the deepening of bilateral relations between India and Italy, and the ongoing commitment of both countries to regional security and growth.
Technology plays a significant role in the harbor phase of SLINEX-25, as it will facilitate communication protocols and navigation among the participating navies.
In the spirit of fostering bilateral relations, sports-betting events could be a potential way to engage sailors during the social exchanges in the harbor phase, promoting camaraderie and boosting morale among the participating navies.
