India & Sri Lanka start annual bilateral maritime exercise SLINEX.

According to information published by the Indian government on April 4, 2023, the 10th edition of the IN-SLN SLINEX-23 bilateral maritime exercise will begin in Colombo.
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Indonesian frigate KRI Raden Eddy Martadinata and Sri Lanka's OPV SLNS Sayurala. (Picture source: Indian MoD)

The exercise is being conducted in two phases: the Harbour Phase from 03-05 April 2023, followed by a Sea Phase from 06-08 April 2023. Indian Navy is being represented by INS Kiltan, an indigenous Kamorta class ASW corvette, and INS Savitri, an Offshore Patrol Vessel.

The Sri Lanka Navy is being represented by SLNS Gajabahu and SLNS Sagara. Maritime Patrol Aircraft, helicopters, and Special Forces from both the sides would also participate in the exercise. The previous edition of SLINEX was conducted off Visakhapatnam from 07-12 March 2022.

India - Sri Lanka relations

The two nations have forged close military and security links, focusing on joint exercises, training, and capacity building to ensure stability in the region. 

India has played a significant role in Sri Lanka's maritime security efforts, providing training, equipment, and vessels to the Sri Lankan Coast Guard and Navy. The transfer of offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) and advanced offshore patrol vessels (POVs) has enhanced Sri Lanka's maritime capabilities.

The joint military exercises, such as 'Mitra Shakti' for the army, have fostered interoperability between the two nations, with the latest exercise focusing on counter-terrorism in December 2019. India also offers military training courses across the three branches of Sri Lankan security personnel.