Exercise SLINEX 2024 (Sri Lanka-India Naval Exercise)

Context:

Exercise SLINEX 2024 is a bilateral naval exercise between India and Sri Lanka, aimed at enhancing the strong maritime relations between the two countries. It is set to take place from December 17 to 20, 2024, at Visakhapatnam, under the supervision of the Eastern Naval Command of India.

About Exercise SLINEX:

• Inception: The first edition of SLINEX was conducted in 2005.
• Current Edition: The 2024 edition marks the 11th iteration of the exercise.
• Objective: The primary goal of SLINEX 2024 is to strengthen maritime ties between India and Sri Lanka and promote a safe, secure, and rules-based maritime environment in the region.

Participating Units:

• India: The Indian Navy will participate with INS Sumitra, a Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) of the Eastern Fleet, along with a Special Forces team.
• Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka's Navy will participate with the SLNS Sayura, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, and an embarked Special Forces team.

Phases of the Exercise:

1. Harbour Phase:

• This phase will focus on professional and social exchanges between the participants to foster mutual understanding and enhance cooperation between the two navies.

1. Sea Phase:

• This phase will feature joint exercises, including:
• Special Forces operations
• Gun firings
• Communication drills
• Seamanship practices
• Navigation evolutions
• Helicopter operations

Significance:

• SLINEX 2024 aims to bolster bilateral maritime cooperation, ensuring both India and Sri Lanka work together to address maritime security challenges and strengthen their defense and strategic ties.
• The exercise is an important step towards fostering regional stability and promoting a collaborative approach to maritime security in the Indian Ocean region.

By engaging in these joint exercises, both nations are enhancing their ability to conduct operations in a coordinated and effective manner, reinforcing their mutual commitment to maintaining a peaceful maritime environment.