SLINEX-26: India-Sri Lanka Maritime Exercise

Why in the News?

The 13th edition of the Sri Lanka-India bilateral maritime exercise, SLINEX-26, is being conducted at Visakhapatnam from 17-21 September 2026.

Key Highlights

• Exercise: SLINEX-26
• Edition: 13th
• Venue: Visakhapatnam
• Dates: 17-21 September 2026
• Participating navies:
  • Indian Navy: INS Kavaratti and INS Jyoti
  • Sri Lanka Navy: SLNS Sindurala
• Exercise has two phases:
  1. Harbour Phase : Professional interactions, Cross-deck visits, Sharing of best practices, Yoga, Sports, and Cultural activities
  2. Sea Phase : Coordinated activities at sea, Operational synergy, Interoperability between the two navies

About SLINEX

• Conceptualised in 2005.
• Provides a platform for:
  • Maritime cooperation
  • Interoperability
  • Mutual understanding
  • Sharing of best practices

Strategic Significance

• SLINEX-26 supports India’s MAHASAGAR vision and aims to strengthen cooperation for a secure, stable and inclusive maritime environment.
• It also reinforces the enduring maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka.

Prelims Quick Revision

• SLINEX: India-Sri Lanka bilateral maritime exercise.
• Conceptualised: 2005
• 2026 edition: 13th
• SLINEX-26 venue: Visakhapatnam
• Indian ships: INS Kavaratti + INS Jyoti
• Sri Lankan ship: SLNS Sindurala
• Two phases: Harbour Phase + Sea Phase
• Linked with India’s MAHASAGAR vision.