SLINEX 2026 Exercise: India-Sri Lanka Maritime Drill

SLINEX 2026 Exercise Begins at Visakhapatnam

The SLINEX 2026 Exercise is underway at Visakhapatnam from 17 to 21 September 2026. It marks the 13th edition of the India-Sri Lanka bilateral maritime exercise. The exercise began with the Harbour Phase and will continue with the Sea Phase.

The Indian Navy has deployed INS Kavaratti and INS Jyoti. INS Kavaratti is an indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvette. INS Jyoti serves as the Fleet Tanker. The Sri Lanka Navy is represented by SLNS Sindurala.

Harbour and Sea Phases

The Harbour Phase comes under the Eastern Naval Command. It began with an opening ceremony and a reception aboard INS Kavaratti for the crew of SLNS Sindurala.

The programme includes professional interactions and cross-deck visits. Naval personnel will also share best practices. Yoga, sports and cultural activities form part of the harbour programme.

The following Sea Phase will focus on coordinated activities at sea. These activities will strengthen operational synergy and interoperability between the two navies.

India conceptualised SLINEX in 2005. Since then, the exercise has developed into an important platform for maritime cooperation, mutual understanding and interoperability.

The SLINEX 2026 Exercise also aligns with India’s vision of MAHASAGAR. The exercise supports efforts to promote a secure, stable and inclusive maritime environment. It also strengthens the longstanding maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka.