By: Isuru Parakrama
June 04, Colombo (LNW): A patrol vessel provided by the United States has arrived in Colombo, marking a significant addition to Sri Lanka’s maritime security resources and strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the field of defence and regional security.
Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku confirmed that the vessel, designated P628, reached the Port of Colombo this week and is set to become part of the Sri Lanka Navy’s operational fleet following its official commissioning.
The vessel is expected to enhance the Navy’s ability to monitor territorial waters, conduct coastal surveillance operations and respond more effectively to maritime challenges, including illegal fishing, smuggling, human trafficking and other transnational threats. Officials believe the addition will further improve the country’s capacity to safeguard its maritime boundaries and support search-and-rescue missions.
A formal handover ceremony is scheduled to take place at the East Container Terminal of the Port of Colombo under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Senior government representatives, naval officers and diplomatic officials are expected to attend the event, which will symbolise the deepening partnership between Sri Lanka and the United States in maritime security cooperation.
