India and Sri Lanka have taken another significant step in deepening their maritime partnership through the successful conduct of IN–SLN DIVEX 2026, the fourth edition of the bilateral diving exercise held in Colombo from April 21–28, 2026.
The exercise brought together the Indian Navy and the Sri Lanka Navy, showcasing growing cooperation and operational synergy in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Key Highlight: INS Nireekshak’s Participation
A major highlight of the exercise was the deployment of INS Nireekshak, a specialized Diving Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel.
- Supported complex underwater operations
- Enabled advanced diving drills
- Strengthened joint training capabilities
Focus on Advanced Underwater Operations
IN–SLN DIVEX 2026 focused on enhancing interoperability and technical expertise through:
- Deep-sea diving operations
- Mixed gas diving drills
- Harbour and open-sea dive exercises
Unique Achievement:
- Successful dives beyond 55 metres depth
- Demonstrated high-level coordination in search, rescue, and salvage missions
Historic Dive Sites: World War Wrecks
A standout moment was the joint dive operations over World War-era shipwrecks:
- SS Worcester
- SS Perseus
These dives required advanced techniques and showcased precision and expertise of both navies.
Leadership Engagement & Strategic Importance
Senior Sri Lankan naval officer SJ Kumara visited INS Nireekshak and appreciated India’s continued support in:
- Training Sri Lankan divers
- Sharing best practices
- Strengthening professional collaboration
The exercise reinforces India-Sri Lanka cooperation in ensuring maritime security and stability in the IOR.
Beyond Military Drills: Building Camaraderie
The exercise also included several goodwill activities:
- Beach clean-up drive at Galle Face
- Friendly sports matches
- Yoga sessions
These initiatives helped strengthen people-to-people and naval bonds.
Tribute to History: IPKF Memorial
The Commanding Officer of INS Nireekshak paid homage at the IPKF Memorial, honoring soldiers of the Indian Peace Keeping Force who sacrificed their lives.
Humanitarian Cooperation: Aarogya Maitri Initiative
As part of broader cooperation, India handed over:
- Two BHISM cubes (Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita and Maitri)
Under the Aarogya Maitri, these units enhance:
- Disaster response
- Emergency medical preparedness
Strategic Vision: MAHASAGAR
The exercise aligns with India’s vision of:
- MAHASAGAR
This framework promotes:
- Regional security
- Maritime cooperation
- Sustainable growth in the Indian Ocean Region
Why IN–SLN DIVEX 2026 Matters
For Defence:
- Strengthens joint operational capability
- Enhances underwater warfare readiness
For Diplomacy:
- Builds trust and strategic partnership
- Reinforces India’s role as a net security provider
For Region:
- Promotes peace, stability, and maritime safety
Conclusion:
IN–SLN DIVEX 2026 stands as a powerful example of India–Sri Lanka strategic cooperation, blending military expertise with humanitarian and diplomatic engagement.
With advanced diving operations, historic missions, and shared values, the exercise highlights a strong and evolving maritime partnership committed to securing the Indian Ocean Region.