The United States has handed over a $4 million satellite communications system to the Sri Lanka Navy, enhancing Colombo’s capacity to monitor maritime activities in the Indian Ocean and safeguard crucial shipping lanes. The announcement was made by US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapur at the Port of Colombo during a visit aboard SLNS Gajabahu. The Fleet Broadband system, produced by Cobham and Inmarsat, will be integrated into Sri Lanka’s offshore patrol vessels, offering secure ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications for the naval fleet while operating far from the coastline.
US officials disclosed that the technology, valued at around $4 million or over 1.2 billion Sri Lankan Rupees, will facilitate seamless connectivity for Sri Lankan naval vessels with real-time communication capabilities with naval headquarters, aircraft, and other ships operating across the vast Indian Ocean. This advancement is anticipated to enhance maritime domain awareness, bolster operational coordination, and aid in intercepting vessels engaged in illicit trafficking, as well as monitoring sanctioned vessels and safeguarding commercial supply chains.
The system’s delivery signifies a significant upgrade for the Sri Lanka Navy, enabling rapid responses to emergencies, protection of cargo ships, and disruption of illegal activities across the Indian Ocean before they reach the shores. Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister of Defence, emphasized that this new capability will not only enhance maritime security but also strengthen defense cooperation between Colombo and Washington. The technology will empower the Sri Lanka Navy to maintain seamless connectivity across its fleet, enhance real-time situational awareness, and share critical information with regional partners for more coordinated responses to illicit activities and to reinforce the security of international shipping lanes in the Indian Ocean.
The United States highlighted that the Fleet Broadband network will enable Sri Lankan naval vessels to collaborate more effectively with partner countries during joint exercises and operational missions aimed at enhancing maritime security.
