The United States has announced plans to provide the Sri Lanka Navy with a Fleet Broadband satellite communication system valued at approximately US$4 million (over Rs. 1.2 billion) to strengthen maritime security and communications capabilities in the Indian Ocean region.
The announcement was made during an official visit by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Dr. Paul Kapur to SLNS Gajabahu at the Port of Colombo.
Dr. Kapur was received by Deputy Minister of Defence Major General (Retd.) Aruna Jayasekara and Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda.
During the visit, discussions focused on enhancing maritime cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United States, including the use of advanced satellite communication technology to improve maritime security, protect international shipping routes, support disaster response operations, and combat illicit activities in the Indian Ocean.
The Fleet Broadband Communication System, developed by Cobham and Inmarsat, will be installed on Sri Lanka Navy Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs). The system will provide secure voice, data, and information-sharing capabilities between naval vessels and shore-based command centres, while ensuring uninterrupted communications even during operations far from the coastline.
According to U.S. officials, the new technology will enable the Sri Lanka Navy to maintain real-time communication with headquarters, aircraft, and other naval assets, significantly improving operational coordination and situational awareness.
The system is also expected to strengthen maritime surveillance capabilities, enhance emergency and disaster response operations, support efforts to combat illegal smuggling and trafficking, and contribute to the protection of international shipping lanes in the region.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Paul Kapur described the initiative as a major step forward in modernizing the communication capabilities of the Sri Lanka Navy. He expressed confidence that the system would enhance Sri Lanka’s ability to respond rapidly during emergencies, safeguard commercial maritime routes, and address illicit activities across the Indian Ocean.
Deputy Minister of Defence Aruna Jayasekara welcomed the initiative, stating that the introduction of the Fleet Broadband system would significantly improve Sri Lanka’s maritime monitoring and surveillance capabilities while further strengthening defence cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United States.
He added that the new technology would improve communication links throughout the naval fleet, facilitate real-time monitoring of maritime operations, and enhance information-sharing with regional partners to ensure the safety and reliability of international shipping routes.
The initiative reflects the continued defence and security cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United States, particularly in the areas of maritime security, regional stability, and capacity building.
