📍New Delhi | 16 Dec, 2024, 5:57 PM
SLINEX 2024: Bilateral Numeric Exercises between India and Sri Lanka SLINEX 2024 (Sri Lanka-India Exercise) is being organized in Visakhapatnam between 17 to 20 December 2024. This exercise will be conducted in the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command. The main objective of this exercise is to further strengthen marine safety cooperation between the two countries. This exercise is happening in such a time, when Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dsenike is on India’s visit. Let's say 1Between 7-19 December India had 800 km long notam in this area (Notice for Airmen) Also released.
SLINEX 2024: Two steps will be organized
This time SLINEX will be organized in two steps:
- Harbour Phase (17-18 December): This stage will have professional and social dialogue between the novice units at the port.
- C phase (19-20 December): Joint military exercises will be carried out in the sea, including operations of special forces, gun firing, navigation exercises, communication drills, helicopter operations, and semanship activities.
Units participating in practice
In this exercise, India and Sri Lanka’s navy will participate with its superior units:
- From India:
- INS Sumitra – A naval offshore patrol vessel of the eastern fleet.
- Team of Special Forces.
- From Sri Lanka:
- SLNS Series – An offshore patrol vessel on which the team of special forces will be deployed.
Importance and purpose of practice
SLINEX was started in 2005 and has since become a symbol of strong marine cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. The aim of this exercise is to enhance mutual understanding between the Navy of both the countries, share best practices and further empower mutual operational capacity in the sea.
The scope of this exercise is increasing every year. The SLINEX 2024 of this year is not only strategically important, but also highlights deep diplomatic and cultural relations between the two countries. The units participating in the exercise will share their experiences and techniques, thereby promoting a safe and rule-based marine environment.
Joint Practices & Activities
Major activities carried out during the C phase include the following:
- Joint Practice of Special Forces: It will be stressed on terrorism prevention operations and marine commando training.
- Gun Firing: Gunfireping will be performed during war exercises.
- Communication and Navigation Practice: Modern marine communications and navigation techniques will be shared.
- Helicopter operation: Coordination and operation of helicopters for air and marine safety.
Relationships and Maritime Cooperation of India and Sri Lanka
There are long-term friendly relationships due to geographical proximity and cultural similarities between India and Sri Lanka. The navy of both countries through SLINEX together faces marine security challenges and contributes to sustainability in the area.
The SLINEX of this bar is being held strategically important places such as Visakhapatnam, headquartered by the Eastern Naval Command. This place is an important centre for the marine interests of India and is a platform for Indian Navy to strengthen its presence in the Eastern Indian Ocean.
SLINEX 2024 is also an example of how India prioritizes strategic and security cooperation with its neighboring countries under its "Padosh First" (Neighbourhood First) policy.
Increased trust and cooperation
The purpose of SLINEX is not limited to just military practice. It is also a great platform to enhance trust and cooperation between the two countries. This exercise strengthens strategic partnerships to deal with threats like maritime terrorism, human trafficking and illegal fishing, as well as contribute to regional maritime security.
The opening ceremony of this exercise will be held on 17 December 2024including representatives from both countries. This function will show the spirit of bilateral cooperation and make the formal beginning of SLINEX 2024.
SLINEX 2024 will give India and Sri Lankan navys the opportunity to face new challenges and understand the ways of modern marine war. This exercise is also an important link not only for security but also for economic and cultural exchanges for both countries.
