SLINEX 2024: India, Sri Lanka to participate in naval exercise on Tuesday

India and Sri Lankan navies will participate in the bilateral naval exercise SLINEX 2024 from Tuesday in Visakhapatnam under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command.

The exercise will take place from December 17 to December 20.

“The exercise will be held in two phases – the Harbour Phase from 17 to 18 December and the Sea Phase from 19 to 20 December,” read a government statement.

Initiated in 2005, SLINEX is a significant series of bilateral naval exercises that have strengthened maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka over the years.

The inaugural ceremony of the exercise is scheduled on 17 December, marking the beginning of the Harbour Phase.

During this phase, participants will engage in professional and social exchanges to strengthen mutual understanding.

The Sea Phase, commencing on 19 December, will feature joint exercises, including Special Forces operations, gun firings, communication drills, seamanship practices, navigation evolutions, and helicopter operations.

Over the years, SLINEX has expanded in scope, enabling both navies to enhance interoperability and share best practices.

The 2024 edition aims to further reinforce the strong maritime ties between India and Sri Lanka while promoting a safe, secure, and rules-based maritime environment.

The exercise is taking place at a time when Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake visited India and met PM Narendra Modi.