US, Sri Lanka launch maritime exercises

Sri Lanka and the US have launched a bilateral maritime exercise aimed at strengthening operational cooperation, enhancing maritime security, and improving disaster response capabilities across the Indian Ocean, according to an official statement on Monday.

Hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy in Trincomalee and Colombo from July 27 to 31, the sixth edition of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT), Sri Lanka 2026 brings together personnel from the US Navy, US Coast Guard, Sri Lanka Navy, and Sri Lanka Air Force for a week of shore- and sea-based training, the US embassy in Sri Lanka said in the statement.

US Embassy Senior Defence Official Matthew House said the exercise reflects the United States' enduring commitment to its security partnership with Sri Lanka. “When our sailors train side-by-side, they build the trust, interoperability, and professional relationships that allow us to respond more effectively together when it matters most,” he said.

“We saw that firsthand during last year's response to Cyclone Ditwah, when the relationships built through years of cooperation enabled our forces to work seamlessly alongside one another in support of the Sri Lankan people.”

The exercise includes classroom sessions and practical training in maritime domain awareness, tactical medicine, explosive ordnance disposal, and visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) operations before participants conduct joint activities at sea, the statement said.

The exercise features a US Navy P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, which will support maritime domain awareness training and coordinated operations, helping both navies strengthen their ability to monitor maritime activity and respond to incidents across the Indian Ocean.

“Through CARAT, the United States and Sri Lanka strengthen the partnerships and practical skills needed to combat transnational threats, conduct search and rescue operations, respond to natural disasters, and help keep the Indian Ocean's vital sea lanes safe for global commerce”, the embassy said.