Colombo, Sri Lanka, Oct. 21 -- Ministry of Defence and Urban Development issued the following news release:

The Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), accompanied by the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando, visited the Pettigalawatta Armoury Complex in Galle on 20 October to inspect the facilities provided by the Sri Lanka Navy for foreign private maritime security companies deploying security teams aboard merchant vessels. The complex serves as a storage facility for weapons and equipment belonging to these companies in connection with the Navy's Onboard Security Team (OBST) support operations.

The Sri Lanka Navy commenced independently conducting Onboard Security Team (OBST) support operations on 03 October 2025, under agreements with foreign private maritime security companies. Over the past year, these maritime security operations have generated approximately USD 3.32 million in foreign exchange earnings, contributing to the national economy.

These operations are conducted in a well-planned manner under the full supervision of the Ministry of Defence. At present, 28 foreign private maritime security companies, through 10 local agents, obtain the necessary facilities and services from the Sri Lanka Navy to support their maritime security operations.

During the inspection visit, the Deputy Minister reviewed the Navy's role in facilitating security teams deployed aboard merchant vessels and assessed the progress of these operations. He commended the Navy's contribution to strengthening the national economy by successfully conducting a substantial number of operations within a relatively short period since independently undertaking these responsibilities. He also issued necessary instructions to ensure that the operations continue to be carried out efficiently and effectively.

Presidential Advisor on Legal Affairs and Senior Attorney-at-Law, J. M. Wijebandara, Additional Secretary (Civil Security and Development) of the Ministry of Defence, Mrs. Indika Wijegunawardena, senior officials from Ministry of Defence and Navy were also present at the occasion.

Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.