SLINEX‑26 Begins: India, Sri Lanka Strengthen Naval Ties
Summary
India and Sri Lanka conducted the 13th edition of their bilateral maritime exercise, SLINEX. The exercise underscores ongoing naval cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
What Happened
On September 19, 2026, India and Sri Lanka began the 13th edition of the bilateral maritime exercise SLINEX‑26 in Visakhapatnam. The exercise involves surface, anti‑air, and anti‑submarine drills, along with boarding operations and helicopter cross‑deck landings. The Indian Navy is represented by INS Delhi and INS Kiltan, while the Sri Lankan Navy has deployed SLNS Vijayabahu and SLNS Samudura. The exercise will run until September 23.
Key Takeaways
SLINEX‑26 underscores the growing defence cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, enhancing interoperability and maritime security in the Indian Ocean region. The drills highlight both nations’ commitment to regional stability and naval partnership.