June 05, Colombo (LNW): In an era where global narratives are increasingly tainted by division, the importance of LGBTQIA+ Pride has never been more critical. As anti-queer rhetoric surges—fuelled by political agendas, influential figures, and institutional decisions—the celebration of Pride stands as a defiant beacon of resilience, solidarity, and hope.
In Sri Lanka, a nation grappling with its own complex history of identity and equality, Pride is not just a month-long festivity but a vital movement for human dignity that resonates across all communities.
The roots of Pride, born from the Stonewall Riots of 1969, remind us of its revolutionary origins, whilst the interconnectedness of all forms of discrimination underscores why this fight belongs to everyone, not just those who identify as queer.
The Stonewall Riots, sparked on June 28, 1969 in New York City, marked a turning point for LGBTQIA+ rights. When police raided the Stonewall Inn, a haven for queer individuals, the community—led by trans women of colour like Marsha P. Johnson—fought back against systemic oppression.
This uprising birthed the modern Pride movement, transforming grief and anger into a global call for equality. In Sri Lanka, where colonial-era laws like Section 365/365A of the Penal Code still criminalise same-sex relationships, the spirit of Stonewall echoes in local activism. Organisations and collectives combatting these relics of oppression advocate for decriminalisation and societal acceptance, making Pride a symbol of resistance against both legal and cultural barriers.
Today, the urgency of Pride is amplified by a global resurgence of anti-queer sentiment. The Trump administration’s policies, including bans on transgender military service and rollbacks on healthcare protections, have emboldened discriminatory rhetoric worldwide. In Sri Lanka, such global narratives resonate, as conservative voices often cite Western backlash to justify local prejudice. Similarly, Elon Musk’s vocal critiques of “woke” culture have weaponised the term, framing queer visibility as a threat to societal norms.
This rhetoric, amplified on platforms like “X” (previously Twitter), risks normalising hostility towards marginalised groups, including Sri Lanka’s queer community, who already navigate a precarious existence under legal and social scrutiny.
The election of Pope Leo XIV introduces further complexity. Unlike his predecessor, Pope Francis, who famously said, “If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?” Leo XIV has expressed opposition to same-sex unions, aligning with conservative factions. This shift, though nuanced, sends ripples to countries like Sri Lanka, where the Catholic Church wields significant influence. Needless to metion that it risks reinforcing traditionalist views that clash with the lived realities of queer Sri Lankans, who face familial rejection and societal stigma.
Meanwhile, the UK Supreme Court’s recent rulings, which have been perceived as legal eradication of transgender identities, further fuel global narratives that erode gender diversity. In Sri Lanka, where transgender individuals face harassment despite promising legislations for medial and legal transitions, such decisions embolden local resistance to inclusive policies.
Pride’s importance lies in its intersectional core. Discrimination does not exist in isolation—homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and intersex-phobia are intertwined with racism, nationalism, sexism, misogyny, xenophobia, patriarchy, and religious extremism. Kimberlé Crenshaw’s framework of intersectionality illuminates how these oppressions overlap, particularly for queer Sri Lankans of Tamil, Muslim, or Burgher descent, who face compounded prejudice due to ethnicity, religion, or class. For instance, a queer Tamil individual may endure not only homophobia but also ethnic discrimination rooted in Sri Lanka’s post-war tensions. Similarly, patriarchal norms that dictate rigid gender roles amplify the marginalisation of queer women and non-binary individuals, who challenge traditional expectations of femininity and family.
Remember – you do not have to be queer to champion Pride. The fight for LGBTQIA+ rights is a fight for universal human dignity. In Sri Lanka, where communal harmony is fragile, supporting queer rights strengthens the broader struggle against all forms of exclusion.
The 2019 Easter Sunday bombings highlighted the dangers of religious extremism, which often fuels anti-queer sentiment alongside xenophobia. By standing with the queer community, allies challenge the same divisive forces that perpetuate racism or sexism. Pride events in Colombo, though small and often met with resistance, foster spaces where diverse identities—Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim, queer, straight—can unite in shared humanity.
Sri Lanka’s history underscores this interconnectedness. The decriminalisation of homosexuality in India in 2018, following years of activism against Section 377, inspired hope amongst Sri Lankan activists, showing how regional progress can ripple outward.
Yet, challenges remain: the lack of anti-discrimination laws, limited healthcare access for transgender individuals, and societal stigma rooted in colonial and patriarchal legacies. Pride in Sri Lanka is not just a celebration but a call to action—to dismantle systems that oppress not only queer people but anyone deemed “other.”
With the anti-queer rhetoric growing, Pride’s role as a defiant act of visibility becomes paramount. It is a reminder that love, identity, and existence are not crimes. In Sri Lanka, where queer individuals risk arrest, violence, or ostracism, Pride is a lifeline—a space to reclaim joy and demand justice.
This is indeed a call for allies to amplify voices, for policymakers to reform outdated laws, and for communities to reject division. Every right is interconnected; every act of solidarity strengthens the fabric of equality. In a world that seeks to silence, Pride shouts: we are here, we are valid, and we will not be erased.
June 05, Colombo (LNW): The country’s official commemoration of World Environment Day commenced this morning in Kegalle, with Nidahas Mawatha transformed into the focal point for environmental awareness activities.
The event forms part of a broader nationwide initiative designed to strengthen ecological consciousness and promote sustainable practices across various sectors.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is expected to participate in the proceedings, which align with the government’s declaration of a dedicated Environment Week.
This initiative seeks to deepen public engagement with environmental issues whilst encouraging institutions at every level to incorporate sustainable development into their operations.
World Environment Day, observed annually on the 5th of June under the stewardship of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is the most widely recognised global platform for environmental awareness.
Since its inception in 1973, the event has mobilised millions worldwide. This year, the global celebration is being hosted by the Republic of Korea, which has placed particular emphasis on nature-based solutions and regional cooperation in tackling ecological challenges.
In parallel to the central ceremony in Kegalle, other regions have launched community-based programmes that combine environmental stewardship with social empowerment.
One such initiative, introduced in Habaraduwa on Tuesday, focuses on the protection and upkeep of coastal areas adjacent to tourism infrastructure. At a gathering held at the local Divisional Secretariat, a new effort was unveiled to designate local residents as custodians of specific beach zones near hotels and resorts.
A formal agreement was signed between the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) and a number of participating tourism establishments, marking a shift towards shared responsibility between government, industry, and community.
Each appointed caretaker will be charged with maintaining cleanliness and preserving the natural charm of their assigned coastal segment. In return, they will receive a modest stipend as acknowledgement of their public service.
This beach conservation effort falls under the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme, operating this year under the theme “Beautiful Coastline, Attractive Tourist Destination”. The campaign seeks to align environmental care with the economic imperatives of the tourism sector, reinforcing the idea that sustainable landscapes are essential for long-term prosperity.
In his wider environmental agenda, President Dissanayake has consistently emphasised the role of local participation and inter-agency collaboration. He has also signalled support for more decentralised environmental governance, encouraging grassroots solutions that reflect regional priorities and cultural contexts.
June 05, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education has officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National University of Singapore (NUS), one of Asia’s leading institutions of higher learning, in what can be described as a strategic move to enhance global educational collaborations.
The MoU was formally signed in Sri Lanka by Nalaka Kaluwewa, Secretary to the Ministry of Education, at the Ministry’s offices. This follows the earlier signing of the document in Singapore on 5th May 2025 by Professor Thean Voon Yew, Vice Chancellor of NUS.
The document was subsequently transmitted through the Sri Lankan High Commission in Singapore for finalisation, cementing the agreement.
Initial discussions regarding this partnership began earlier in the year, in February, and the framework of the agreement was finalised by April. With Cabinet approval granted on 28th April, the deal was officially confirmed, paving the way for future collaborations.
The partnership outlines a comprehensive plan for academic cooperation between Sri Lanka and NUS, with a focus on creating opportunities for both students and faculty. Key components of the MoU include the provision of doctoral scholarships for Sri Lankan students to study at NUS, along with opportunities for faculty members to visit and engage in academic exchange programmes.
Additionally, the agreement sets the stage for the development of joint research projects in key fields, as well as collaborative scientific activities aimed at advancing innovation and knowledge-sharing.
The two institutions also plan to introduce undergraduate fellowship programmes, enabling students from Sri Lanka to gain exposure to NUS’s world-class education system.
The collaboration is expected to facilitate the sharing of academic resources and best practices, further strengthening the quality of higher education in Sri Lanka.
The Ministry of Education expressed its enthusiasm for this landmark partnership, highlighting its importance in the broader context of Sri Lanka’s vision for educational development.
Further talks are scheduled between the two parties in the coming months to iron out the logistical and operational details of the agreement, ensuring that the initiatives outlined in the MoU are successfully implemented.
June 05, Colombo (LNW): A former national cricketer is set to face legal proceedings at the Hambantota High Court after the Attorney General formally filed an indictment against him, marking a significant development in Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption in sport.
Sachindra Madushanka Senanayake, once a rising figure in Sri Lankan cricket, stands accused of attempting to manipulate a professional match by targeting another player with illicit approaches during a domestic tournament in late 2020.
The case centres on events that allegedly unfolded during a high-profile competition hosted in Hambantota, where Senanayake is said to have tried to influence the integrity of the matches through covert means.
According to the case details, he allegedly made contact with Tharindu Hasanka Ratnayake, who had secured a place in the Colombo Kings squad during the inaugural Lanka Premier League (LPL). Senanayake reportedly proposed an offer to the player with the intent of swaying his conduct on the field. Crucially, he is also accused of urging Ratnayake not to disclose the incident to officials from the International Cricket Council’s Anti-Corruption Unit — a serious violation under local and international sports governance protocols.
These charges fall under Section 5(a) of Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports Act No. 24 of 2019, legislation enacted to protect the credibility of sporting competition and ensure the highest ethical standards among athletes and associated personnel.
This is the first time a Sri Lankan cricketer has been formally indicted under this specific Act in a High Court, signifying a landmark moment in the nation’s anti-corruption framework within sport.
Investigations into Senanayake’s alleged conduct also unearthed claims that he made similar approaches to two other players competing in the same tournament.
These contacts, reportedly made via phone from abroad, further complicated the case and raised questions about whether a broader attempt to compromise the tournament was in play.
Senanayake had previously been granted bail in relation to those allegations.
June 05, Colombo (LNW): Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa has appeared before the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) to provide testimony regarding the controversial fertiliser importation process that occurred during his time in office.
Rajapaksa’s statement was taken as part of an ongoing investigation into potential irregularities and misconduct related to the fertiliser deals, which have drawn significant public and political attention.
The inquiry into the fertiliser imports, which took place while Rajapaksa held his government position, has been the subject of scrutiny amid claims of improper dealings, including concerns over the quality and cost of the fertiliser brought into the country.
Following his appearance, Rajapaksa addressed the media, stating that he had fully cooperated with the commission’s investigation by submitting all relevant documents and providing comprehensive information to ensure that the probe could proceed with full clarity.
June 05, Colombo (LNW): A proposal was officially presented to Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne at the Parliament House yesterday (04), aiming to establish a dedicated Parliamentary Caucus for Arts and Cultural Affairs.
The initiative, led by MPs from the Ruling Party National People’s Power (NPP), Jagath Manuwarna and Ruwan Mapalagama, seeks to enhance the representation and advocacy of arts and culture within legislative discussions.
The submission, which was made in the presence of parliamentary officials, outlines the need for a specialised platform that would prioritise the development, preservation, and promotion of the country’s rich cultural heritage.
In the proposal, Manuwarna and Mapalagama emphasised the critical role that arts and culture play in shaping national identity, fostering social cohesion, and contributing to the economy through tourism and related industries.
According to the Department of Communications of Parliament, this proposal will now be presented to the Committee on Parliamentary Business at its upcoming session.
The committee will review the details of the proposal and determine the next steps, which could include drafting the necessary resolutions to establish the caucus officially.
June 05, Colombo (LNW): Supplementary medical professionals across the nation are preparing to strike today (05), in protest against the Ministry of Health’s failure to address their long-standing grievances.
The walkout, scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM, has been called by the Joint Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine (JCPSM), a collective representing a wide range of medical support staff.
According to Chanaka Dharmawickrama, General Secretary of the JCPSM, the strike is a direct result of the Ministry’s continued neglect of key issues affecting their members. These include unresolved concerns regarding promotions, career progression, and better working conditions within hospitals.
Whilst the strike is set to affect most healthcare facilities, it has been confirmed that certain specialised institutions, including the Cancer Hospital, Maternity and Children’s Hospitals, Kidney Hospitals, and the Central Blood Bank (CBB), will remain operational. These hospitals have reportedly reached separate agreements with the health ministry to ensure continuity of care during the industrial action.
June 05, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has called for a reimagining of Sri Lanka’s development strategy, insisting that financial success on its own does not equate to meaningful national progress.
Speaking during a policy consultation at the Ministry of Finance yesterday (04), the President pressed the need for parallel advancement in social equity, institutional integrity, and political accountability.
During the high-level meeting attended by senior Treasury officials, the President shared his vision of a development model grounded not just in economic indicators, but in collective societal transformation.
Drawing from global examples, he pointed to the long-term national strategies of countries like China, South Korea, and Vietnam—nations that achieved rapid economic modernisation through decades of deliberate, people-centred planning.
He urged those present to consider development as a shared national responsibility rather than a task assigned solely to government agencies or politicians. “Transformation must come from within institutions, amongst citizens, and from political leadership. It cannot be driven through coercion or narrow interest,” he remarked.
President Dissanayake made it clear that his administration would avoid the pitfalls of past governments by resisting ad hoc decision-making. Instead, he signalled a commitment to governance through dialogue, welcoming contributions from civil servants, technical experts, and other stakeholders.
He acknowledged that many initiatives in Sri Lanka had failed due to short-sighted political interference that undermined evidence-based policy.
The discussion turned toward the urgent need to overhaul key public institutions, aligning them with the state’s long-term policy priorities. The President instructed officials to initiate reforms without delay, especially in state bodies that play critical roles in infrastructure, education, public finance, and national planning.
Whilst supporting greater efficiency, he reaffirmed the state’s responsibility to retain oversight of strategic sectors that underpin national security and public welfare.
In assessing the external environment, President Dissanayake cautioned that Sri Lanka must brace for challenges that extend beyond its borders. He cited the implications of the International Monetary Fund’s Extended Fund Facility programme, changes to international tariff regimes—particularly in the United States—and the scheduled expiration of GSP+ trade concessions in 2027.
These, he noted, could significantly affect trade, investment, and fiscal flexibility in the coming years.
Amongst those present at the dialogue were Dr Anil Jayantha Fernando, Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Harshana Suriyapperuma, and Finance Ministry Secretary Mahinda Siriwardana. The discussion concluded with a call to action, urging the Treasury to prepare both policy frameworks and institutional blueprints to initiate the next wave of public sector transformation.
June 05, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (05).
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Uva and Eastern provinces and in Polonnaruwa district during the afternoon or night.
Fairly strong winds of about (30-40) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central, North-western and Southern provinces and in and Trincomalee district.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain: Showers will occur at a few places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Hambantota via Colombo and Galle. Manly fair weather will prevail over the other sea areas around the island.
Winds:
Winds will be south-westerly. wind speed will be (30-40) kmph and can increase up to 50 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Puttalam and Mannar and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota. Wind speed will be (20-30) kmph in the other sea areas around the island. Wind speed can increase up to 45 kmph in the sea areas extending from Chilaw to Galle via Colombo and from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee via Mullaittivu.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Puttalam and Mannar and from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota will be rough at times. The sea areas extending from Chilaw to Galle via Colombo and from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee via Mullaittivu will be fairly rough at times.
Temporarily strong wind gust and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
The recent audacious drone attacks by Ukraine, striking multiple Russian strategic aircraft at airbases deep within Russia, serve as a stark and undeniable testament to a profound shift in modern warfare. These incidents, occurring hundreds of kilometres behind enemy lines, are not isolated events but rather powerful indicators of an evolving landscape where unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, are redefining military doctrine, strategy, and indeed, national security itself. For small island nations like Sri Lanka, with unique geographical vulnerabilities and a complex history of internal conflict, understanding and adapting to this paradigm shift is not merely a strategic imperative but a matter of existential importance.
Technology in the Battlefield
As a military professional, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of technology on the battlefield. However, the advent and rapid proliferation of drone technology represent a leap akin to the introduction of gunpowder or the airplane. The Ukrainian strikes, in particular, highlight several critical aspects: the increasing range and precision of drones, their ability to bypass traditional air defences, and the relatively low cost yet high strategic impact of such operations. These attacks underscore that no target, no matter how deeply entrenched or seemingly secure, is immune to the reach of determined adversaries employing drone technology.
Paradigm Shift of Air Warfare
The “discovery” of drone technology, more accurately its maturation and widespread application, has fundamentally altered the calculus of air warfare. Traditionally, air superiority was the preserve of nations with substantial investments in manned fighter jets, advanced radar systems, and highly trained pilots. Drones, however, democratise air power. They offer significant advantages:
Reduced Risk to Personnel: Operators control drones remotely, eliminating the risk of pilot casualties.
Cost-Effectiveness: Drones are significantly cheaper to procure, operate, and maintain compared to manned aircraft, making them accessible to a wider range of state and non-state actors.
Persistence and Loitering Capability: Drones can remain airborne for extended periods, providing persistent surveillance, reconnaissance, and even strike capabilities.
Precision and Targeting: Modern drones, equipped with advanced sensors and precision-guided munitions, can execute highly accurate strikes with minimal collateral damage.
Swarm Tactics: The ability to deploy multiple drones simultaneously, often with autonomous or semi-autonomous capabilities, presents a formidable challenge to existing air defence systems, overwhelming them through sheer numbers.
This shift has created a new operational environment where air power is no longer solely the domain of traditional air forces but can be projected by entities with far fewer resources.
Asymmetric Warfare and Drone Technology
Drone technology is a natural fit for asymmetric warfare, where weaker actors seek to exploit the vulnerabilities of stronger, technologically superior adversaries. Non-state actors and insurgent groups can leverage readily available commercial drones, often modified for nefarious purposes, to achieve disproportionate effects. These drones can be used for:
Intelligence Gathering: Covert surveillance of military installations, critical infrastructure, and VIP movements.
Targeted Strikes: Delivery of small explosive payloads, incendiary devices, or even chemical/biological agents.
Psychological Warfare: Creating panic and disrupting daily life through disruptive overflights or minor incidents.
Harassment and Sabotage: Disrupting operations at airports, ports, or power plants.
The low cost and ease of acquisition of commercial drones mean that the barrier to entry for conducting air-based attacks has been dramatically lowered. This presents a significant challenge for conventional military forces accustomed to facing clearly defined, state-backed threats.
Potential Terrorism Revival and Drone Tech Threats
Sri Lanka has a painful history of grappling with terrorism. The lessons learned from decades of conflict underscore the ingenuity and adaptability of non-state actors. The re-emergence of terrorist groups, or the rise of new ones, utilising drone technology, poses a grave threat. Drones could be employed in various ways:
Attacks on Military Bases: Small, explosive-laden drones could target aircraft on the tarmac, fuel depots, or command and control centres, causing significant damage and psychological impact.
Assassinations: Drones could be used for precision strikes against high-value military or political targets.
Attacks on Critical Infrastructure: Power grids, telecommunications networks, oil refineries, and water treatment plants are all vulnerable to drone-borne sabotage, leading to widespread disruption and economic paralysis.
Disrupting Public Gatherings: Drones could be used to drop leaflets, disseminate propaganda, or even deploy small quantities of harmful substances during public events, creating mass panic.
Drug Trafficking and Smuggling: Drones can facilitate the illicit movement of narcotics and other contraband across borders, further exacerbating security challenges.
The relative ease of acquiring and modifying commercial drones for these purposes makes this a highly plausible future scenario that demands proactive planning and preparedness.
Proposals to Counter such Threats
Addressing the multifaceted drone threat requires a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach that integrates technological solutions, policy adjustments, and enhanced human capabilities.
Develop and Deploy Counter-Drone Systems: Invest in a layered defence system incorporating:
Detection: Advanced radar, acoustic sensors, and RF signal detection systems to identify and classify drones.
Identification: Electro-optical and infrared cameras for visual confirmation.
Interdiction: Jamming systems to disrupt control signals, spoofing technologies to redirect or land drones, and kinetic solutions like net-firing drones, drone guns, or even specialised laser systems for high-value targets.
Establish No-Fly Zones and Restricted Airspace: Clearly define and enforce airspace restrictions around critical infrastructure, military installations, and sensitive areas.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate the public on drone regulations, the potential dangers of illicit drone use, and how to report suspicious activity.
Enhanced Law Enforcement Capabilities:Train law enforcement agencies to identify, track, and intercept illicit drones and to investigate drone-related incidents.
Is Drone Technology a Threat to National Security of Sri Lanka in the Present and Future?
Undoubtedly, yes. Sri Lanka’s unique geopolitical position, its reliance on a thriving tourism industry, and its vital maritime trade routes make it particularly susceptible to drone-related threats. Also, the threat is not static; it will evolve. As drone technology advances, so too will the capabilities of those seeking to exploit it. We can anticipate:
Increased Autonomy and Swarming: Drones operating with greater autonomy, reducing reliance on human control and enabling sophisticated swarm attacks that are incredibly difficult to defend against.
Miniaturisation and Stealth: Smaller, harder-to-detect drones, potentially with stealth capabilities, making them even more challenging to counter.
Advanced Payloads: The development of more potent and diverse payloads, including sophisticated explosives, chemical/biological agents, or even electromagnetic pulse (EMP) devices.
AI Integration: Drones powered by artificial intelligence, capable of independent decision-making and target identification, further complicate defensive measures.
Sri Lanka must not only react to current threats but proactively anticipate future challenges by investing in research and development and staying abreast of global technological advancements in both drone capabilities and countermeasures.
Vulnerability of Critical Infrastructure
Sri Lanka’s critical infrastructure, vital for its economic stability and societal well-being, is particularly vulnerable. This includes:
Energy Sector: Power plants, transmission lines, and oil storage facilities are susceptible to drone-borne attacks that could cripple national power grids and fuel supply.
Transportation Hubs: Airports, seaports, and major road/rail networks are vital arteries for trade and tourism. Drone disruptions could lead to significant economic losses and operational paralysis.
Communication Networks: Cell towers, data centres, and underwater cables are essential for national communication and digital infrastructure. Attacks could severely impact connectivity and information flow.
Water Supply Systems: Dams, reservoirs, and water treatment plants are critical for public health. Drone attacks could contaminate water sources or disrupt the supply.
Tourism Industry: Iconic tourist sites, hotels, and resorts are high-profile targets. Drone attacks could severely damage Sri Lanka’s image as a safe destination, impacting a crucial revenue stream.
Protecting these assets requires a multi-layered security approach, integrating drone detection and interdiction systems with existing physical security measures.
Technological Advancements and Countermeasures
The arms race between drone technology and countermeasures is continuous. Sri Lanka must actively pursue and adapt the latest counter-drone technologies:
Directed Energy Weapons (DEW): Lasers and high-powered microwave systems offer the potential for silent, precise, and cost-effective neutralisation of drones, especially in swarms.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI can enhance detection systems by rapidly analysing large datasets, identifying anomalous drone behaviour, and even predicting potential attack vectors.
Cyber Warfare Capabilities: Developing the ability to hack into and take control of hostile drones, or to disrupt their command and control systems.
Hard-Kill Solutions: Specialised interceptor drones, anti-drone missiles, and even advanced small arms ammunition designed to bring down UAVs.
Integration with Air Defence Systems:Seamlessly integrating drone detection and neutralisation capabilities into existing national air defence networks for a holistic approach.
The Policy and Legal Framework
For Sri Lanka to effectively manage the drone threat, a clear and comprehensive policy and legal framework is indispensable. This framework must address:
Regulation of Civilian Drones: Strict registration requirements, licensing for operators, clear no-fly zones, and penalties for violations.
Military and Security Forces’ Use of Drones: Establishing clear rules of engagement, ethical guidelines, and accountability mechanisms for the use of armed and surveillance drones.
International Law: Navigating the complexities of international humanitarian law and the law of armed conflict concerning drone operations, especially in cross-border scenarios.
Data Privacy and Surveillance: Balancing national security needs with the protection of citizens’ privacy in an era of ubiquitous drone surveillance.
Cybersecurity Legislation: Laws to address the cyber vulnerabilities of drone systems and to prosecute malicious cyber activities related to drones.
Regular review and updates to this framework will be necessary to keep pace with technological advancements and evolving threats.
Regional Cooperation to Ensure National Security of Sri Lanka
Given the transnational nature of drone threats, regional cooperation is not merely beneficial but essential. Sri Lanka should actively engage with its regional partners in the Indian Ocean Rim and beyond to:
Share Intelligence: Establish mechanisms for real-time intelligence sharing on drone-related threats, best practices in counter-drone strategies, and emerging technologies.
Joint Training and Exercises: Conduct joint exercises to test interoperability, refine tactics, and build collective capacity in counter-drone operations.
Technology Exchange: Explore opportunities for collaborative research and development of counter-drone technologies.
Capacity Building: Assist less-resourced nations in the region to develop their own counter-drone capabilities, recognising that a weak link in the chain can compromise regional security.
Harmonise Regulations: Work towards regional harmonisation of drone regulations to prevent illicit drone activities from exploiting loopholes in national laws.
Maritime Domain Awareness: Collaborate on enhancing maritime domain awareness, particularly in monitoring sea lanes for suspicious drone-related activities.
Recommendations
Based on the evolving landscape of drone warfare and its specific implications for Sri Lanka, I put forth the following recommendations:
Establish a National Drone Threat Assessment and Response Centre: A dedicated inter-agency body comprising military, intelligence, law enforcement, and civilian aviation experts to continuously monitor, assess, and coordinate responses to drone threats.
Prioritise Investment in Counter-Drone Technologies: Allocate significant resources to acquire and develop a layered counter-drone defence system, focusing on detection, identification, and multi-domain interdiction capabilities, including directed energy weapons and AI-driven solutions.
Enhance ISR Capabilities with a Drone-Centric Focus: Invest in advanced ISR platforms and data analytics tools specifically designed to detect, track, and analyse drone activities, ensuring robust intelligence gathering against this emerging threat.
Strengthen Legal and Regulatory Frameworks: Urgently review and update existing laws and regulations pertaining to drone ownership, operation, and the use of counter-drone measures, ensuring they are comprehensive, enforceable, and aligned with international standards.
Intensify Training and Capacity Building:Conduct specialised training programmes for military personnel, law enforcement, and critical infrastructure operators on drone threat identification, response protocols, and the operation of counter-drone systems.
Foster Public-Private Partnerships:Collaborate with local and international private sector entities specialising in drone technology and cybersecurity to leverage their expertise and accelerate the development and deployment of counter-drone solutions.
Drive Regional Cooperation: Actively champion and participate in regional initiatives focused on intelligence sharing, joint training, and technology exchange to build a collective security framework against drone threats in the Indian Ocean region.
Promote Research and Development:Establish incentives and allocate funds for local research and development into drone technology and countermeasures, fostering an indigenous capability to adapt to future challenges.
Conduct Regular Vulnerability Assessments: Periodically assess the vulnerability of all critical national infrastructure to drone attacks and implement necessary protective measures.
Integrate Counter-Drone Strategy into National Security Policy: Elevate the drone threat to a core component of Sri Lanka’s national security strategy, ensuring that all defence and security planning fully accounts for this evolving challenge.
Conclusion
The drone is no longer a futuristic concept; it is a present reality that has dramatically altered the dynamics of warfare. For Sri Lanka, a nation suffered enough due to terrorism, which has had a significant impact on its economy and growth, ignoring this transformation would be an unforgivable oversight. By proactively investing in technology, policy, and partnerships, we can safeguard our national security, protect our critical assets, and ensure that Sri Lanka remains resilient in the face of this unseen, yet potent, threat. The time for decisive action is now.
The writer is an Infantry officer who served the Sri Lanka Army for over 36 years, a former Security Forces Commander of the Wanni Region and Eastern Province, and he holds a PhD in economics. He can be reached at:[email protected]
