Steadfast at Sea Deputy Defence Minister Lauds Navy’s Operational Resolve

Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), undertook an inspection of the Sri Lanka Navy Operations Room at the Navy Headquarters in Akuregoda on 13 January, during which he underscored the national importance of the “Ratama Ekata” programme and lauded the Navy’s steadfast commitment to its uninterrupted execution, despite the pressures of the recent national disaster emergency.

Upon arrival, the Deputy Minister was formally received by the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda. A comprehensive briefing and on-site appraisal followed, enabling the Deputy Minister to review the Navy’s command and control mechanisms, operational coordination, and overall maritime security readiness.

Particular emphasis was placed on the Sri Lanka Navy’s ability to sustain mission-critical operations under the “Ratama Ekata” initiative, including decisive action to clamp down on illegal maritime activities, even while the Force remained heavily engaged in islandwide rescue, relief, and humanitarian assistance efforts.

The Deputy Minister was briefed on the Navy’s continued operations to ward off non-traditional maritime threats, its search and rescue missions, assistance extended to fishing and coastal communities, and measures undertaken to safeguard the marine environment.

Commending the Sri Lanka Navy’s professionalism, resilience, and operational effectiveness in the face of challenging conditions, the Deputy Minister highlighted the strategic value of the “Ratama Ekata” programme to national security. He provided strategic guidance to further enhance operational readiness, efficiency, and coordination, while reiterating the Government’s confidence in the Navy’s pivotal role in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s maritime domain and supporting key national initiatives.

Members of the Navy’s Board of Management were present during the Deputy Minister’s visit to the Navy Headquarters.