INS Shalki Makes Historic Visit to Colombo, Strengthening India-Sri Lanka Naval Ties
In a significant gesture of naval cooperation, the Indian Navy’s submarine INS Shalki arrived in Colombo, Sri Lanka on August 2, 2024, for a two-day visit. The submarine was warmly received by the Sri Lanka Navy with a ceremonial reception, marking a milestone in the growing maritime relationship between the two nations.
During its stay, the Commanding Officer of INS Shalki is scheduled to meet with Rear Admiral WDCU Kumarasinghe, Commander of the Western Naval Area, followed by a visit and briefing of Sri Lanka Navy personnel onboard. Additionally, personnel from the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Defence Forces will also visit the submarine.
INS Shalki, a Shishumar-class diesel-electric submarine, holds a special place in Indian naval history as the first submarine built in India, commissioned on February 7, 1992. This visit follows previous submarine visits by INS Karanj and INS Vagir in February 2024 and June 2023, respectively, highlighting the growing naval cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.
The visit of INS Shalki to Colombo underscores the strengthening ties between the two nations and their commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation, regional security, and friendship.