IN-SLN DIVEX 2026 was the fourth bilateral diving exercise between the Indian Navy and the Sri Lanka Navy. It was held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 21 April to 28 April 2026, and involved INS Nireekshak, the Diving Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel of the Indian Navy.
Exercise Profile
The exercise included complex underwater operations, advanced deep-sea diving evolutions, and mixed gas diving drills. Mixed gas diving uses breathing mixtures other than air and is used for deeper underwater work.
Operational Features
The diving teams carried out mixed gas dives beyond 55 metres over the World War-era wrecks SS Worcester and SS Perseus off Colombo. Such dives fall under deep-sea diving and underwater salvage training, which are standard components of naval diving exercises.
Maritime Cooperation
The exercise focused on underwater search, rescue, and salvage operations in the Indian Ocean Region. Rear Admiral S.J. Kumara, Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Area of the Sri Lanka Navy, visited INS Nireekshak during the exercise.
Humanitarian and Training Linkages
India provided two BHISM medical cubes to Sri Lanka under the Aarogya Maitri initiative. BHISM stands for Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita & Maitri, and it is used for disaster response and medical preparedness support.
Related Static Facts
INS Nireekshak is a Diving Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel of the Indian Navy. The Indian Peace Keeping Force Memorial in Colombo commemorates Indian soldiers who served in Sri Lanka. The exercise aligns with India’s MAHASAGAR vision, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. The conclusion of the exercise included a ceremonial send-off for INS Nireekshak in Colombo.
Last Modified: April 30, 2026