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Current Affairs

India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Maritime Ties through IN-SLN DIVEX 2026 in Colombo

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India and Sri Lanka conducted the fourth edition of their bilateral diving exercise, IN-SLN DIVEX 2026, from April 21 to 28 in Colombo to reinforce naval coordination and underwater operational skills. The exercise included advanced deep-sea and mixed gas diving drills, with dives exceeding 55 meters over World War-era wrecks SS Worcester and SS Perseus. The Indian Navy deployed INS Nireekshak, a specialized Diving Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel, demonstrating enhanced interoperability. Beyond operational drills, joint humanitarian activities were conducted, highlighting a strengthened maritime partnership focused on Indian Ocean security.

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Key Facts

  • IN-SLN DIVEX 2026 was held from April 21 to 28, 2026, in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
  • It was the fourth edition of the bilateral diving exercise between the Indian Navy and Sri Lankan Navy.
  • The Indian Navy deployed INS Nireekshak, a Diving Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel, for the exercise.
  • Diving teams from both navies participated in harbour and open-sea drills, including advanced deep-sea diving and mixed gas diving drills.
  • Divers conducted complex operations beyond 55 meters deep, enhancing underwater search, rescue, and salvage capabilities.
  • Mixed gas dives were performed over World War-era shipwrecks SS Worcester and SS Perseus off Colombo.
  • India handed over two BHISM cubes under the Aarogya Maitri initiative to enhance Sri Lanka's disaster response and medical preparedness.
  • Joint non-operational activities such as beach cleaning, sports, and yoga sessions fostered mutual trust and camaraderie.

Background & Context

India and Sri Lanka share strategic interests in ensuring peace, stability, and security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). IN-SLN DIVEX is a specialized bilateral naval exercise designed to improve interoperability, technical expertise, and coordination in underwater operations, rescue, and salvage missions. The 2026 edition builds on this partnership by advancing complex diving skills and joint operational readiness. The deployment of INS Nireekshak underscores India's commitment to regional maritime security and humanitarian assistance cooperation.

Why This Matters for Exams / Exam Relevance

IN-SLN DIVEX 2026 illustrates India's strategic maritime diplomacy and defence cooperation with neighboring countries. Exam questions often test knowledge on India's bilateral relations, especially in the Indian Ocean Region, India’s naval capabilities, and regional security frameworks. Understanding the specifics of exercises like IN-SLN DIVEX helps grasp how India projects maritime influence and builds partnerships. Details such as exercise dates, locations, vessels involved, and key operational activities serve as direct factual anchors for competitive exams.

Points to Remember

  • IN-SLN DIVEX 2026 was conducted in Colombo, Sri Lanka from April 21-28, 2026.
  • It was the fourth bilateral diving exercise between India and Sri Lanka.
  • The Indian Navy’s INS Nireekshak, a Diving Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel, was deployed.
  • Diving operations included complex deep-sea and mixed gas dives exceeding 55 meters.
  • Divers conducted operations above WWII shipwrecks SS Worcester and SS Perseus near Colombo.
  • Two BHISM cubes were handed over under the Aarogya Maitri initiative to bolster disaster response capabilities.
  • Joint cultural and humanitarian activities were held to strengthen bilateral trust and friendship.
  • The exercise aligns with shared goals of maritime security and regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region.
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