Navy’s pivotal role in success of humanitarian operation & its ongoing contributions to national security
Fifteen years have passed since the LTTE terrorism, which plagued the nation for three decades, was decisively defeated through a humanitarian effort, securing the ultimate freedom of our motherland. On this day of victory commemoration, the Sri Lanka Navy, the first line of our nation’s defence, honours the courageous sacrifices made by its personnel, both fallen and disabled, in ensuring this historic triumph
Since 1983, the Sri Lanka Navy, originally tasked with ceremonial duties, significantly contributed to security operations on both land and sea. As the LTTE escalated its terrorist activities in the North and East Seas, the Navy bolstered its fleet and helped troop transportation to operational areas,facilitating amphibious operations with the Army. In particular, the Vadamarachi Operation in 1987, Operation Thrividha Balaya in 1990 to break the siege of the old Jaffna Fort, Operation Balavegaya in 1991-92 in response to the siege of Elephant Pass, Battle of Pooneryn in 1993 are considered as the leading operations that the Navy assisted, transporting troops by sea and attacking enemy targets on land from the sea.
To disrupt the LTTE’s sea supply network, crucial in providing arms for their terrorist activities, the Navy bolstered its offshore patrol vessel fleet for extended patrols at sea. Notably, in 2003, they neutralized ‘Koi’ and ‘Koima’ floating armories, located 185 and 195 nautical miles offshore, respectively as part of Varuna Kirana Operation. Additionally, between 2006-2007, aided by international intelligence, the Navy thwarted 8 more LTTE floating armories within distances ranging from 120 to 1620 nautical miles, effectively dismantling the LTTE’s arms and sea supply network, playing a pivotal role in the success of humanitarian operation.
To ensure the uninterrupted transportation of vital goods by sea between the North and the East, the Navy provided maritime security for ships carrying essential cargo. Additionally, a substantial number of troops were safely transported by sea to operational areas in the north, where land transportation was not feasible.
The ‘Jetliner’ ship successfully navigated through a challenging security situation posed by LTTE’s sea tiger attack, departing from Trincomalee to Kankasanthurei with stringent protection by the Navy.
This unique operation saw the transportation of 3500 troops from three armed forces and police to Kankasanthurei simultaneously, followed by the safe return of a similar number of troops to Trincomalee, showcasing the Navy’s exceptional capabilities amidst adversity. On the 15th anniversary of the humanitarian operation’s completion, we honour and pay tribute to the brave naval personnel of the 04th Fast Attack Flotilla and the 3rd Fast Gun Boat fleet, who made the ultimate sacrifice, ensuring the success of the ‘Jetliner’ operation.
As the frontline defenders of our island nation, the Navy plays a crucial role in safeguarding national security both during and after conflicts. The Sri Lanka Navy remains dedicated to nurturing stability in our ocean region to fulfill the country’s maritime goals. This commitment extends to collaborating with various maritime stakeholders, government agencies, and actively participating in economic, environmental protection, and maritime activities to ensure the sustainable use of marine resources and prevent pollution.
The Navy collaborates with regional and extra-regional maritime entities to effectively respond to disasters, conduct search and rescue operations in Sri Lanka’s designated search and rescue region, and tackle various maritime challenges such as drug trafficking, human smuggling, and illegal fishing activities, ensuring freedom of navigation and security in the country’s maritime territories. The Navy, vital for national security, is also playing a significant role in preserving marine environments. Through its Environmental Conservation Project, the Navy is implementing eco-friendly initiatives aimed at protecting threatened coral and mangrove habitats, contributing to the sustainability of Sri Lanka’s marine ecosystem.
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