The bilateral naval exercise between India and Sri Lanka, SLINEX 24 (Sri Lanka-India Exercise 2024), took place from December 17 to 20, 2024, in Visakhapatnam under the Eastern Naval Command. The exercise was conducted in two phases: the Harbour Phase (December 17-18) and the Sea Phase (December 19-20).
From the Indian side, INS Sumitra of the Eastern Fleet and a Special Forces team participated, while Sri Lanka was represented by SLNS Sayura, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, accompanied by their Special Forces team.
The inaugural ceremony was held on December 17, marking the start of the Harbour Phase, which featured professional and social interactions among participants. The Sea Phase, beginning on December 19, included joint Special Forces exercises, gun firings, communication drills, seamanship and navigation practices, and helicopter operations.
The SLINEX series, initiated in 2005, has been held regularly to enhance cooperation between the two navies. This year’s edition further deepened the maritime ties between India and Sri Lanka, contributing to a secure, rules-based maritime domain. It also aligns with India’s vision of “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR).
