SLINEX-26
Why in News?
SLINEX-26 is in the news because the 13th edition of this India-Sri Lanka bilateral maritime exercise is being conducted in Visakhapatnam from 17 to 21 September 2026.
Key Information About SLINEX-26
- Participating Nations: It is a bilateral naval exercise between the Indian Navy and the Sri Lanka Navy.
- Edition & History: This is the 13th edition of the series. The exercise was first conceptualised and initiated in 2005.
- Location: Hosted at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, under the aegis of the Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command.
- Participating Naval Assets:
- India: Represented by INS Kavaratti (an indigenously designed Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvette) and INS Jyoti (a Fleet Tanker).
- Sri Lanka: Represented by the warship SLNS Sindurala.
- Phases of the Exercise:
- Harbour Phase: Commenced with an opening ceremony and reception onboard INS Kavaratti. It involves professional interactions, cross-deck visits, sharing of best operational practices, sports, cultural activities, and Yoga.
- Sea Phase: Focuses on practical seamanship evolutions, coordinated tactical activities at sea, and improving operational synergy.
- Strategic Significance:
- The exercise aligns directly with India's Neighbourhood First policy and the MAHASAGAR (Maritime Heads for Active Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.
- It reinforces a mutual commitment to maintaining a secure, stable, and inclusive maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region.
