SLINEX-26: Strengthening India-Sri Lanka Naval Cooperation; 13th Bilateral Maritime Exercise in Visakhapatnam
The 13th edition of the bilateral naval exercise SLINEX-26 between India and Sri Lanka is being held in Visakhapatnam from September 17–21, 2026, with the aim of enhancing maritime cooperation and operational coordination. INS Kavaratti and INS Jyoti from India and SLNS Sindurala from Sri Lanka are participating in the exercise. The exercise comprises an initial harbour phase—featuring professional interactions, exchange of best practices, and cultural activities—followed by a sea phase that emphasizes interoperability. Launched in 2005, SLINEX serves as a vital platform for fostering maritime cooperation, exchanging information and experiences, and strengthening mutual trust between India and Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean Region.
India and Sri Lanka are conducting the 13th edition of their annual bilateral naval exercise, SLINEX-26 (Sri Lanka–India Naval Exercise), in Visakhapatnam from September 17 to 21, 2026. The objective of this exercise is to strengthen professional cooperation, joint operations, and operational coordination between the two navies. The exercise commences with a harbour phase, followed by a sea phase.
Participating Naval Vessels
INS Kavaratti and INS Jyoti from the Indian Navy and SLNS Sindurala from the Sri Lanka Navy are participating in SLINEX-26. INS Kavaratti is an indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) corvette, while INS Jyoti is a fleet tanker. This participation demonstrates the practical cooperation between the two nations in maritime operations.
Cooperation and Professional Interaction during the Harbour Phase
The harbour phase of the exercise commenced with an opening ceremony and the welcoming of the Sri Lankan delegation aboard INS Kavaratti. This phase encompasses professional interactions, cross-deck visits to naval ships, the exchange of best practices, yoga sessions, sports, and cultural activities. These activities aim to strengthen mutual trust and professional bonds between the personnel of both navies.
Sea Phase and Interoperability
The sea phase of the exercise will follow the harbour phase. During this stage, both navies will focus specifically on operational coordination and interoperability while conducting joint activities at sea. Regular joint military exercises provide an opportunity for both forces to understand each other's operational procedures and develop the capability to operate jointly.
Significance of SLINEX in India-Sri Lanka Maritime Relations
SLINEX was launched in 2005 and has since evolved into a vital platform for maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. The exercise extends beyond mere naval training; it facilitates the exchange of information and experiences, fosters an understanding of operational procedures, and enhances institutional cooperation among military personnel from both nations. Regular bilateral exercises help strengthen trust and coordination in the maritime domain between neighboring countries.
Significance for UPSC: Indian Ocean and MAHASAGAR
SLINEX-26 is significant for the UPSC examination in the context of GS Paper-II (Relations with India's neighbors), GS Paper-III (Defence and Security), and maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. The exercise also aligns with India's MAHASAGAR initiative, which aims to promote security, stability, and inclusivity in the maritime domain. UPSC aspirants should note key details: SLINEX (India-Sri Lanka naval exercise), inception (2005), 13th edition (SLINEX-26), location (Visakhapatnam), and key concepts such as interoperability, maritime security, and MAHASAGAR.
