Indian Navy Warship INS Mumbai to visit Colombo for strengthening maritime ties
August 25, Colombo (LNW): The Indian Navy’s frontline destroyer, INS Mumbai, is set to arrive in Colombo on 26th August 2024 for a three-day visit, as announced by the Indian High Commission in Colombo.
This marks the warship’s first visit to a Sri Lankan port and the eighth port call by Indian naval vessels this year.
The Sri Lanka Navy will ceremonially receive INS Mumbai, which is the third destroyer of the Delhi-class, indigenously constructed and commissioned into service in January 2001.
After completing its mid-life upgrade, the vessel joined the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam in December 2023.
The ship’s visit underscores the deepening maritime collaboration between India and Sri Lanka, particularly in enhancing regional security and operational readiness.
In addition to fostering diplomatic ties, INS Mumbai will deliver essential spare parts for the Dornier maritime patrol aircraft operated by the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF).
The Dornier aircraft, introduced two years ago, plays a crucial role in surveillance over Sri Lanka’s maritime areas and has significantly bolstered the nation’s search and rescue capabilities.
The Indian Navy continues to support the maintenance of this aircraft through technical expertise and the provision of necessary spares.
During its stay, INS Mumbai will facilitate a familiarisation tour for Sri Lankan naval personnel, promoting the exchange of best practices between the two navies.
The visit will include joint activities such as sports, yoga sessions, and a beach cleaning initiative, further strengthening the camaraderie between the crews.
The Commanding Officer of INS Mumbai is scheduled to meet with Rear Admiral W.D.C.U Kumarasinghe, Commander of the Western Naval Area, at the Western Naval Area Headquarters.
The ship’s visit is classified as an Operational Turn Around (OTR), during which it will replenish fuel and provisions while the crew enjoys rest and relaxation, with opportunities to explore Colombo and Galle’s cultural landmarks.
This visit is part of the broader framework of regular Indian Naval port calls at Sri Lankan ports, reinforcing the enduring maritime partnership between the two neighbouring nations.
