India–Sri Lanka Defence Cooperation: Key Highlights
India's Defence Minister concluded a historic three-day visit to Sri Lanka — the first visit by an Indian Defence Minister to the island nation in 38 years. Three key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed to bolster bilateral defence cooperation and regional security.
Three Strategic Defence MoUs
- Upgradation of L70 Guns: India will fund the upgradation of six 40mm L70 anti-aircraft guns operated by the Sri Lankan Air Force under a Government of India grant, enhancing Sri Lanka's air-defence architecture.
- National Defence Colleges (NDC): Academic cooperation and knowledge sharing between the NDCs of both nations to foster long-term strategic learning and institutional linkages.
- National Cadet Corps (NCC): Formalization of a youth exchange programme, strengthening people-to-people ties and military youth engagement.
Infrastructure & Disaster Relief
- Both leaders virtually inaugurated three Bailey bridges constructed by the Indian Armed Forces in Sri Lanka's Kurunegala and Batticaloa districts, restoring connectivity in areas affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
- The initiative is part of India's humanitarian assistance under Operation Sagar Bandhu, under which India has provided emergency relief and a USD 450-million reconstruction package.
Other Key Outcomes
- Security Assurances: Sri Lanka reiterated that its territory would never be used for activities inimical to India's security interests.
- Maritime Engagement: The Indian Navy's indigenously built multi-role stealth frigate INS Udaygiri arrived at Colombo port for an Operational Turnaround (OTR).
- Fisheries Issue: The Palk Strait fisheries dispute was discussed, with Sri Lanka seeking support against destructive bottom trawling by Indian fishermen.
Strategic Significance for India
- Countering Regional Influence: With China's growing footprint in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and investments in ports like Hambantota, stronger security ties ensure a stable maritime environment and protect crucial shipping lanes.
- Neighbourhood First Policy: Reinforces India's commitment as a "first responder" in times of crisis, cementing its status as a reliable neighbour in South Asia.
- MAHASAGAR Initiative: Aligns with India's vision for maritime security, intelligence sharing, and cooperative growth in the IOR.
India–Sri Lanka Defence & Security Cooperation: Background
- Joint Military Exercises: Annual bilateral exercises — SLINEX (Navy) and MITRA SHAKTI (Army) — conducted alternately in India and Sri Lanka.
- Maritime Security & Capacity Building: India supported the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) with USD 6 million in grant assistance.
- Defence Cooperation Agreement & Training: A MoU on Defence Cooperation was signed during the Indian Prime Minister's visit to Sri Lanka in 2025. India provides around 1,200 training vacancies annually to the Sri Lankan Armed Forces.
- Counter-Terrorism & Regional Security: The Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), with founding documents signed in 2024, is a key platform for regional security cooperation covering maritime security and counter-terrorism.
Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
- Prelims 2009: Elephant Pass is mentioned in the context of the affairs of — Sri Lanka.
- Prelims 2020: On Indo-Sri Lanka trade and South Asian trading partners — answer: statement 2 only.
- Mains 2022: 'India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka' — discuss India's role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka.
- Mains 2013: Discuss how domestic factors influence India–Sri Lanka foreign policy.