The 13th edition of the India-Sri Lanka bilateral maritime exercise, SLINEX-26, concluded at Visakhapatnam on September 21. Conducted from 17–21 September 2026, the exercise provided opportunities for professional interactions, exchange of best practices and enhancement of interoperability between the two navies.

INS Kavaratti, an indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Corvette, and INS Jyoti, the Fleet Tanker, participated from the Indian Navy, while SLNS Sindurala represented the Sri Lanka Navy. Conceptualised in 2005, SLINEX has evolved into an important forum for fostering maritime cooperation, interoperability and mutual understanding between the two Navies. The Harbour Phase, conducted under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command, commenced with an opening ceremony and reception onboard INS Kavaratti for the visiting crew of SLNS Sindurala. The phase includes professional interactions, cross-deck visits, sharing of best practices, yoga, sports and cultural activities.

The Sea Phase featured coordinated maritime manoeuvres, air operations, night replenishment at sea and Special Forces drills, including Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) and slithering operations. These activities provided valuable opportunities to hone operational coordination and interoperability between the participating forces.

SLINEX-26 reflects the strong maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka and their shared commitment towards a secure and stable Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The exercise contributes to India’s vision of Mahasagar and the Neighbourhood First policy through enhanced maritime cooperation, interoperability and capacity building.