India –Sri Lanka maritime exercise SLINEX-23 kick-starts

New Delhi: The 10th edition of the Indian Navy-Sri Lanka Navy bilateral maritime exercise SLINEX-23 kick-started at Colombo on April 3, 2023. The five-day exercise is being conducted in two phases: the Harbour Phase from April 3-5, 2023, followed by a Sea Phase from April 6-8, 2023.

Indian Navy is being represented by INS Kiltan, an indigenous Kamorta class ASW corvette and INS Savitri, an Offshore Patrol Vessel. The Sri Lanka Navy is being represented by SLNS Gajabahu and SLNS Sagara. Maritime Patrol Aircraft, helicopters and Special Forces from both the sides would also participate in the exercise. The previous edition of SLINEX was conducted off Visakhapatnam from March 7 – 12, 2022.

SLINEX-23 aims at enhancing interoperability, improving mutual understanding and exchanging best practices while jointly undertaking multi-faceted maritime operations. Professional, cultural and sporting events, as also social exchanges are planned during the harbour phase to further bolster the bonds of friendship and camaraderie between both Navies.

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