The Indian Navy is deepening its maritime cooperation with Sri Lanka as two of its ships, INS Rana and INS Jyoti, dock in Colombo for the 12th edition of the Sri Lanka India Naval Exercise (SLINEX-25). Running from August 14 to 18, this biennial drill is a cornerstone of naval collaboration between the two nations.
SLINEX was first conceptualized in 2005 and has since played a pivotal role in enhancing interoperability and joint operational capabilities. This year’s exercise is no exception, with both navies set to engage in multi-faceted maritime operations. The previous edition took place in Visakhapatnam, India, last December.
The exercise is split into two phases. The Harbour phase, which lasts until August 16, includes professional exchanges, workshops, and cultural activities. Yoga sessions and sports events are also on the agenda, fostering camaraderie among personnel. Meanwhile, SLNS Gajabahu and Vijayabahu will represent the Sri Lankan Navy, with Special Forces from both sides participating.
The Sea phase, scheduled for August 17 and 18, will feature high-intensity drills. Gunnery firing, communication exercises, navigation maneuvers, and fuel transfer operations at sea are just a few highlights. A key focus will also be on Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills, showcasing the navies’ readiness for real-world scenarios.
This year’s SLINEX aligns with India’s broader maritime strategy, MAHASAGAR, which emphasizes mutual security and growth in the region. The exercise underscores the strong ties between India and Sri Lanka, rooted in shared strategic interests.
In a separate but related development, the Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Tamal celebrated India’s 79th Independence Day in Naples, Italy. The ship had stopped in Italy after its commissioning in Russia on July 1. Its visit highlights the growing defense ties between India and Italy, elevated to a ‘Strategic Partnership’ last year.
Before docking in Naples, INS Tamal conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Italy’s ITS Trieste, focusing on communication drills and flying operations. The port call includes cross-deck visits, high-level discussions, and cultural exchanges, further cementing Indo-Italian naval relations.