India-Sri Lanka defence and maritime cooperation

India and Sri Lanka are actively engaging in high-level discussions to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

In late August 2026, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced a scheduled visit to Sri Lanka for September 9 and 10. The visit aims to review the implementation of the India-Sri Lanka Defence Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding signed in April 2025, which covers joint military exercises, capacity building, and humanitarian assistance. Singh is expected to meet with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya.

Concurrently, Sri Lanka Navy Commander Vice Admiral Damian Fernando conducted a three-day official visit to New Delhi. During this visit, the Vice Admiral met with Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan to discuss the Bilateral Defence Cooperation Plan, institutionalised training, and capacity-building initiatives. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace and stability, aligning with India’s ‘Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth across Regions’ (MAHASAGAR) vision.