The Sri Lanka Navy, renowned for its illustrious history as the nation’s maritime defence force, celebrates its 74th Anniversary today, 9 December.
Under the leadership of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, anniversary celebrations include a series of programmes across all Naval Commands, reflecting the Navy’s rich traditions and religious practices.
As part of the festivities, the Navy announced that 2,138 senior and junior sailors have been advanced to higher ranks. The advancements, approved by Vice Admiral Perera, include 158 to Ordinary Seaman, 279 to Able Seaman, 406 to Leading Seaman, 391 to Petty Officer, 539 to Chief Petty Officer, 354 to Fleet Chief Petty Officer, and 11 to Master Chief Petty Officer.
The Sri Lanka Navy’s journey began with the Naval Volunteer Force Ordinance No. 01 of 1937, leading to the creation of the Ceylon Volunteer Naval Force in 1939. The Regular Naval Force was established in the 1950s, culminating in the Royal Ceylon Navy through the Navy Act No. 34 of 1950. Following the country’s transition to a republic in 1972, the Royal Ceylon Navy became the Sri Lanka Navy, expanding its capabilities to safeguard the nation’s maritime boundaries.
The Navy transformed significantly in the 1980s, moving from a ceremonial role to a key military force amidst the rise of terrorism. It played a pivotal role during the humanitarian operation that ended nearly three decades of conflict, serving as the First Line of Defence.
Today, the Sri Lanka Navy continues to ensure maritime security, addressing challenges like drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and other non-traditional threats. It collaborates with the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), the world’s largest maritime coalition, to uphold the International Rules-Based Order on the high seas.
In a major milestone, the Sri Lanka Navy will assume command of the Combined Task Force (CTF) 154 in January 2025, further enhancing its international reputation.
The Navy has also introduced its ‘Maritime Strategy 2030 and Beyond,’ focusing on modernising its fleet, integrating advanced technologies, and strengthening manpower to meet future challenges.
As part of its anniversary celebrations, multi-religious ceremonies were held to honour fallen naval veterans and invoke blessings on serving and retired personnel, their families, and the Commander of the Navy. The Sri Lanka Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the nation’s maritime interests and contributing to regional stability.
