By: Staff Writer
June 12, Colombo (LNW):In a move to strengthen bilateral military cooperation, Russia and Sri Lanka held the second planning conference for their upcoming joint military anti-terrorism exercises. The conference took place at the Eastern Military District headquarters in Russia, according to an official statement from the Russian Military District on Monday.
This series of joint exercises will focus on counter-terrorism operations, with both countries’ forces preparing to simulate the elimination of illegal armed groups in jungle and urban combat environments. The training will emphasize coordinated tactics, command structures, and operational communication to tackle evolving global threats.
From the Russian side, the Air Force delegation was led by acting Commander Lieutenant General Mikhail Nosulev. The Sri Lankan delegation was headed by Deputy Army Commander Major General Vedage Vimalarate.
Assistant Commander for International Military Cooperation Ivan Taraev noted that the exercises would “not only enrich mutual experience but also help develop common approaches to neutralizing global challenges, primarily terrorism.”
This follows an earlier conference held in Sri Lanka in May 2025, during which military representatives from both countries exchanged tactical insights and shared best practices in anti-terror operations. Although the exact dates and the hosting country for the final joint exercises have not been confirmed, officials have indicated that planning is progressing smoothly.
Russia and Sri Lanka share a longstanding history of military and technical cooperation dating back to the 1960s. Throughout Sri Lanka’s internal conflict period, the Soviet Union—and later the Russian Federation—provided critical military assistance, including weapons and training support. Notably, Sri Lanka acquired Russian MiG-27 ground attack aircraft, significantly enhancing its air interdiction capabilities.
Today, this cooperation extends beyond equipment supply. The Russian Defense Attaché in Colombo has highlighted continuing partnerships with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), emphasizing the importance of training programs and a shared vision for expanded collaboration. Educational opportunities for Sri Lankan youth in Russian military academies have also been proposed, with support from both the MoD and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education.
In addition to military ties, the two nations maintain a robust political relationship. High-level dialogues, interparliamentary exchanges, and foreign ministry consultations have been institutionalized, including through an inter-ministerial consultation mechanism established in 2000.
As both countries continue to navigate complex security challenges in the 21st century, these joint exercises underscore a deepening strategic partnership built on decades of trust, shared interests, and mutual defense cooperation.
