The 8th edition of the annual India – Sri Lanka bilateral naval maritime exercise, known as SLINEX-20, is scheduled to take place from 19 to 21 October 2020 in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. This marks another important event in the SLINEX series that began in 2005, with the 7th edition conducted off Visakhapatnam in September 2019.
Purpose and Impact of SLINEX
SLINEX functions as a platform to enhance interoperability and strengthen mutual understanding through the exchange of best practices and procedures for multi-faceted maritime operations between both Indian and Sri Lankan navies. This exercise serves as a testament to the deep engagement that exists between India and Sri Lanka, particularly in their cooperative efforts in the maritime domain.
Features of the 2020 Exercise
In the upcoming SLINEX-20, a variety of vessels and aircraft will represent both participant nations. The Indian Navy will be represented by the Indigenously built ASW corvette Kamorta and Kiltanunder, along with the Indian Navy Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), Chetak helicopters, and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft. Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Navy will deploy SLN Ships Sayura (Offshore Patrol Vessel) and Gajabahu (Training Ship). In addition to fostering cooperation and understanding, this maritime exercise will also showcase the capabilities of India’s indigenously constructed naval ships and aircraft.
Nature of Exercises Planned
During SLINEX-20, a range of surface and anti-air exercises has been planned, including weapon firing, seamanship evolutions, manoeuvres, and cross deck flying operations. These exercises are intended to build upon the high degree of interoperability already established between the two friendly navies.
The Impact of Covid-19 on SLINEX
Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s exercise will be conducted in a non-contact ‘at-sea-only’ format. This represents an adaptation to the challenging health conditions worldwide while maintaining the commitment to bilateral ties.
Significance of the Exercise
SLINEX plays an essential role in not just improving maritime operations but also reinforcing India’s policy of ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Security and Growth for all in the Region (SAGAR)’. It symbolizes the strengthening of bilateral ties and underlines a collaborative approach towards regional security.
Other Bilateral and Multilateral Defence Exercises
Aside from SLINEX, there are numerous other important exercises conducted by India with its strategic partners. These include:
- Indra: India-Russia Naval Exercise
- Malabar: US-India-Japan Naval Exercise
- Varuna: France and India Naval Exercise
- Simbex: India and Republic of Singapore Naval Exercise
- Ibsamar: India, Brazil and South Africa Naval Exercise
- Konkan: India and Britain Naval Exercise
- Ausindex: India and Australia Naval Exercise
- Naseem Al-Bahr: India-Oman Naval Exercise
These joint exercises have played a pivotal role in enhancing defence cooperation and interoperability with friendly nations.
