Colombo, Sri Lanka, June 23 -- Ministry of Defence and Urban Development issued the following news release:
The United States delivered an advanced Fleet Broadband satellite communication system to the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN), significantly enhancing maritime connectivity and operational capabilities across the Sri Lanka Navy's Offshore Patrol Fleet. The announcement was made during a special reception held onboard SLNS Gajabahu at the Port of Colombo on 22 June.
The event was attended by Hon. Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), and U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Dr. S. Paul Kapur, together with senior officials representing both countries. The distinguished guests were warmly welcomed on arrival by Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. S. Paul Kapur announced that the United States will provide Fleet Broadband satellite communications technology to the SLN to strengthen maritime connectivity along some of the world's busiest shipping routes. The comprehensive communication system, valued at approximately USD 4 million, will be installed across the SLN Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).
Powered by advanced United States satellite communication technology, the Fleet Broadband system enables secure ship to ship and ship to shore communication, ensuring reliable voice, data, and information exchange while operating far beyond coastal coverage areas. The system will facilitate real time connectivity between naval headquarters, aircraft, and vessels deployed across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Delivering his remarks at the occasion, the Deputy Minister of Defence emphasized that the introduction of this advanced communication capability represents a significant enhancement to Sri Lanka's maritime domain awareness and further strengthens defence cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United States.
He further noted that the SLN plays a crucial role in monitoring activities across strategically important maritime routes and highlighted that the Fleet Broadband satellite communication system will considerably improve the Navy's ability to maintain uninterrupted communication across its fleet, sustain real time situational awareness within Sri Lanka's maritime domain, and facilitate timely information sharing with regional partners. Such enhanced capabilities, he noted, would contribute towards more coordinated responses to illicit maritime activities while ensuring the continued security and reliability of international shipping lanes.
The event was also attended by Charge d'Affaires of the United States Embassy in Sri Lanka, Ms. Jayne Howell, senior officials from the United States Embassy in Sri Lanka, senior officials of the Ministry of Defence, and senior officers of the Sri Lanka Navy.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
