The Australian Government has strengthened Sri Lanka’s hydrographic capabilities with the donation of a Shallow Water Multibeam Echo Sounder (SWMES) to the Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Service (SLNHS).
The advanced hydrographic instrument was officially handed over to Sri Lanka Navy Commander Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda by Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Paul Stephens at the Sri Lanka Navy Base Rangala in the Colombo Port yesterday (18).
The SWMES will enable the SLNHS to conduct precise hydrographic surveys essential for the creation of Nautical and Electronic Charts used by vessels, including SLN ships. This donation significantly enhances Sri Lanka’s hydrographic capabilities, paving the way for more efficient and accurate maritime mapping.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
Speaking at the event, Australian High Commissioner Paul Stephens emphasized that this contribution further reinforces the longstanding maritime cooperation between Australia and Sri Lanka.
“The SLN plays a crucial role in the security of the Indian Ocean region, and we are pleased to support its efforts. This instrument will be invaluable to the SLN’s hydrographic initiatives,” he stated.
Enhancing Maritime Security and Surveying Capabilities
Navy Commander Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting that the acquisition of this cutting-edge technology aligns with Sri Lanka’s international maritime security commitments.
“This marks a new era in the development of Sri Lanka’s hydrographic sector. The SWMES will significantly enhance the efficiency of hydrographic surveying and enable the production of highly accurate nautical charts, which are critical for maritime operations within Sri Lankan territorial waters,” he said.
This is the first SWMES received by the SLN, and its impact is expected to be transformative. The technology’s ability to collect data in shallow waters will enhance Sri Lanka’s capacity to survey ports, coastal zones, and key waterways. The data collected will not only benefit the National Hydrographic Service but also strengthen Sri Lanka’s position in regional maritime affairs.
Australia’s Continued Support for Sri Lanka’s Maritime Development
Vice Admiral Banagoda also acknowledged Australia’s ongoing contributions to Sri Lanka’s maritime domain awareness, recalling Australia’s previous provision of the Ratnadeepa and Mihikatha vessels to bolster maritime operational capabilities. He reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations and fostering deeper cooperation in the maritime sector.
The event was also attended by Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Lalita Kapoor, Defence Advisor Colonel Amanda Johnston, and SLN Chief of Staff Rear Admiral Damian Fernando.
