INS Vikrant docked in Colombo ahead of the International Fleet Review, showcasing India’s growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean (Photo: X | @Defencematrix1)
It was a weaving in of symbolism and ceremony as India's first home-built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, escorted by INS Udayagiri, sailed into Sri Lanka this week as part of the preparations for the International Fleet Review marking the 75th year of the Sri Lankan Navy.
The arrival of the carrier turned into a moment of ceremony and symbolism, underlining the depth of cooperation between the two neighbours. As Colombo readies to host fleets from across the region, India's participation stands out for both its strategic intent and message of partnership.
The visit began with a reception on board Vikrant, hosted by High Commissioner Santosh Jha. Sri Lanka's Health and Mass Media Minister, Dr Nalinda Jayatissa, spoke as the chief guest and termed the visit of the aircraft carrier a clear reminder of the shared responsibility that India and Sri Lanka carry in the Indian Ocean.
ALSO READ: Cabinet Approves Mega ₹7,280-Crore Permanent Magnet Plan to Scale Up Rare-Earth Magnet
He linked the deployment to India's MAHASAGAR outlook, which stresses secure seas, regional growth and maritime connectivity. His comments echoed years of naval exercises, coordinated patrols and humanitarian missions that have shaped the bilateral relationship.
Sri Lanka’s location at the hub of busy trade lanes makes cooperation with India imperative. Trafficking networks, increasing climate risks, and new security challenges pose common threats to them both.
The two navies have a long history of working together on hydrographic surveys, disaster relief, and capacity building. As Dr Jayatissa noted, the Indian Ocean’s stability depends upon countries that can operate collectively rather than in isolation.
INS Vikrant's participation carries greater significance than a routine port call. Commissioned in 2022, the carrier represents India's push toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Its presence at an event involving regional and extra-regional navies conveys a message of India's growing operational reach and its intent to stay engaged in the maritime neighbourhood.
ALSO READ: Delhi Becomes India’s Most Polluted Region as 60% Districts Breach Air-Quality Norms: CREA Study
With India having supported Sri Lanka during its economic crisis with more than four billion dollars in assistance, the visit also fits into New Delhi's broader diplomatic outreach.
Starting with ships from Bangladesh, Iran, Maldives, Malaysia, Pakistan, Russia, and others, the fleet review on November 30 demonstrates a region attempting to steer its way through precarious geopolitical changes.
Against this backdrop, the lineup of vessels for ceremonial salutes to Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is an occasion for both India and Sri Lanka that speaks beyond ritual. The courtesy reflects mutual views that secure seas, consistent collaboration and open communication are the keys to tomorrow in the Indian Ocean.
ALSO READ: India Hits Back at Pakistan Over Ayodhya Flag Row, Says Islamabad Has ‘No Moral Standing’
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and is based on publicly available reports. It does not represent official policy or military positions.
