December 09, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Navy has commemorated its 74th anniversary today, celebrating a proud legacy of maritime defence and national service.
Under the leadership of Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, the Navy has organised a series of events across its commands, highlighting both the service’s enduring traditions and its vital role in securing the nation’s maritime boundaries.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the Navy announced the advancement of 2,138 sailors to higher ranks, with promotions spanning across senior and junior levels.
This includes the elevation of 158 sailors to Ordinary Seaman, 279 to Able Seaman, 406 to Leading Seaman, 391 to Petty Officer, 539 to Chief Petty Officer, 354 to Fleet Chief Petty Officer, and 11 to Master Chief Petty Officer, a move that underscores the Navy’s ongoing commitment to recognising and rewarding its personnel.
The history of the Sri Lanka Navy dates back to 1937 with the establishment of the Naval Volunteer Force in colonial Ceylon. Over the decades, the force has evolved, first becoming the Royal Ceylon Navy in 1950 and later transforming into the Sri Lanka Navy in 1972, following the country’s transition to a republic.
From its humble beginnings, the Navy has grown into a powerful force dedicated to safeguarding Sri Lanka’s maritime interests.
In the early 1980s, as internal conflicts escalated, the Sri Lanka Navy transitioned from ceremonial duties to a key military force in the battle against terrorism.
The Navy played a crucial role in the successful humanitarian operation that brought an end to nearly three decades of conflict, acting as the nation’s first line of defence during critical moments of the war.
Today, the Sri Lanka Navy remains the only seafaring force in the country, actively contributing to regional stability. Its responsibilities extend beyond national security, including combating illegal activities such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and piracy in Sri Lanka’s waters.
In partnership with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), the world’s largest maritime coalition, the Navy helps maintain a rules-based order on the high seas, ensuring safe passage for international shipping.
The Navy’s role on the global stage is set to grow even further, with the Sri Lanka Navy preparing to assume command of Combined Task Force (CTF) 154, a unit within the CMF, starting in January 2025.
This significant achievement further elevates the Navy’s stature internationally, positioning Sri Lanka as a respected contributor to maritime security and stability.
A key element of the Navy’s ongoing development is its “Maritime Strategy 2030 and Beyond”, a forward-thinking initiative aimed at enhancing the Navy’s capabilities through advanced technology, improved infrastructure, and the development of professional manpower.
The strategy is designed to ensure that Sri Lanka remains prepared for emerging challenges, including non-traditional maritime threats.
In line with its anniversary celebrations, the Sri Lanka Navy also held a series of religious ceremonies to mark this significant occasion. Multi-faith services included a Kanchuka Puja and Flag Blessing at the Ruwanwelisaya and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura, a Christian Commemoration at St. Lucia’s Cathedral, and a Hindu Puja at the Sri Ponnambalawaneswarar Kovil in Colombo.
Islamic prayers were held at the Jummah Mosque, while an all-night Pirith Chanting ceremony was conducted at the Welisara Naval Complex.
Furthermore, offerings and prayers were held at several key religious sites, including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy and the Sandahiru Seya in Anuradhapura.
As part of its commitment to community welfare, the Navy also organised blood donation drives across the Eastern and Northwestern Naval Commands, with many personnel participating in this life-saving initiative.
In a heartfelt gesture, the Navy Welfare Directorate, under the guidance of Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, is reaching out to the families of fallen or missing naval personnel.
This initiative is aimed at ensuring the well-being of these families, offering support and recognition for the sacrifices made by their loved ones in service to the nation.
Under the steadfast leadership of the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and the Ministry of Defence, the Sri Lanka Navy remains vigilant and prepared to face any maritime challenge.
