As the 2024 edition of SLINEX concluded, it became evident that the exercise not only enhanced the operational capabilities of the Indian and Sri Lankan navies but also served as a testament to their shared commitment to regional peace and stability.

In a significant move to bolster maritime security and cooperation, India and Sri Lanka concluded the 2024 edition of their bilateral naval exercise, SLINEX-24, from December 17 to 20. Conducted under the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam, this joint exercise marks a vital step in enhancing the operational capabilities of both navies and fostering regional stability in the Indian Ocean.

A Tradition of Maritime Collaboration

SLINEX (Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise), which began in 2005, has become a cornerstone of maritime collaboration between the two countries. This year’s edition was held in two phases: the Harbour Phase from December 17 to 18 and the Sea Phase from December 19 to 20. These exercises aim to strengthen mutual trust, improve interoperability, and address common maritime challenges.

India was represented by the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sumitra, a sophisticated offshore patrol vessel from the Eastern Fleet, accompanied by a contingent of Special Forces commandos. Sri Lanka participated with the SLNS Sayura, an offshore patrol vessel, and its own Special Forces team.

The inaugural ceremony on December 17 set the tone for the Harbour Phase, where both navies engaged in professional exchanges and social interactions. This phase focused on fostering camaraderie and understanding through joint discussions, cross-training sessions, and informal sporting events. These activities provided an opportunity for the participants to share expertise and deepen their professional bonds.

The Sea Phase, held from December 19 to 20, featured complex naval drills and manoeuvres, emphasising operational synergy and tactical excellence. Key activities included:

• Gun Firings: Live firing exercises demonstrated the precision and combat readiness of both navies.
• Special Forces Operations: Joint drills highlighted coordinated responses to security threats.
• Communication Procedures: Exercises improved interoperability through seamless communication protocols.
• Seamanship and Navigation Evolutions: Teams conducted advanced navigation and ship-handling drills.
• Helicopter Operations: Coordinated aerial exercises showcased the integration of air and naval assets.

These activities underscored the commitment of both nations to maintaining maritime security and ensuring the free movement of goods and vessels in the region.

Expanding Regional Maritime Cooperation

The timing of SLINEX-24 coincided with the visit of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to India. During his meetings with Indian leaders, including President Draupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Dissanayake emphasised Sri Lanka’s commitment to not allowing its territory to be used for activities against India. His statement is particularly significant amid growing concerns over the increasing presence of Chinese naval assets, including warships and submarines, in the Indian Ocean.

The shared vision of peace and stability in the region was a central theme of discussions, reinforcing the strategic importance of joint initiatives like SLINEX.

In parallel with SLINEX, India’s commitment to maritime security extended to its cooperation with the Maldives. On December 15, Indian Coast Guard ships ICGS Vaibhav and ICGS Abhiraj arrived at Male Port for a four-day port call. The visit included professional interactions with the Maldives National Defence Force Coast Guard (MNDF CG), focusing on key issues such as marine pollution response, search and rescue operations, and maritime law enforcement.

Joint activities such as cross-deck training and friendly sports competitions highlighted the growing camaraderie between the Indian Coast Guard and MNDF CG. These engagements are part of a broader strategy to enhance regional stability and secure critical sea lanes in the Indian Ocean.

Strengthening Bonds Amidst Challenges

The success of SLINEX-24 aligns with India’s maritime vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). This initiative emphasizes a collaborative approach to regional security and economic prosperity, underscoring the importance of a rules-based maritime order.

The defence ministry highlighted that SLINEX has played a pivotal role in fostering mutual trust and understanding between India and Sri Lanka. This year’s exercise further consolidated their maritime partnership, promoting a secure and rule-based maritime domain.

As the 2024 edition of SLINEX concluded, it became evident that the exercise not only enhanced the operational capabilities of the Indian and Sri Lankan navies but also served as a testament to their shared commitment to regional peace and stability. Amid the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean, such collaborations are vital for addressing emerging challenges and ensuring a secure maritime environment.

Through initiatives like SLINEX and broader engagements with its maritime neighbours, India continues to reaffirm its role as a key security partner in the region. The successful completion of SLINEX-24 stands as a beacon of the enduring maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka, paving the way for greater cooperation and shared prosperity in the years to come.