India, Sri Lanka begin SLINEX-26 naval exercise in Visakhapatnam

The 13th edition of SLINEX, the bilateral maritime exercise between India and Sri Lanka, got under way in Visakhapatnam on September 17 and will run until September 21 under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command.

SLINEX-26 is structured in two parts — a Harbour Phase followed by a Sea Phase — with the two navies working to sharpen operational interoperability and widen maritime cooperation.

India is represented by the indigenously designed Anti-Submarine Warfare corvette INS Kavaratti and the fleet tanker INS Jyoti. The Sri Lanka Navy has deployed SLNS Sindurala for the exercise.

The Harbour Phase opened with a ceremony and a reception hosted onboard INS Kavaratti for the crew of SLNS Sindurala. The programme includes professional interactions, cross-deck visits, the exchange of best practices, yoga, and sporting and cultural activities.

The Sea Phase that follows will see coordinated operations designed to build operational synergy and interoperability between the two forces.

First conceptualised in 2005, SLINEX has grown into a standing platform for mutual understanding and cooperation between the Indian and Sri Lankan navies. The exercise also offers both sides a chance to share operational experiences and improve their ability to work together at sea.

The drill is aligned with India's MAHASAGAR vision and is intended to contribute to a secure, stable and inclusive maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region.