'EX DOSTI' concludes solidifying strategic maritime bonds

The 17^th iteration of the trilateral joint exercise 'EX DOSTI' concluded successfully on 19 Jan 26, following four days of cooperative engagement in Maldivian waters.

The exercise, hosted by the Maldives National Defence Force, aimed to strengthen interoperability, mutual operational capabilities, and enduring bonds among the Coast Guards of India, Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Held from 16 to 19 January, the Harbour Phase of the exercise was conducted from the commercial port of 'Male' and in the sea and land areas surrounding Funadhoo Island.

Participating ships included Indian Coast Guard Ships Varaha and Atulya, Maldivian Coast Guard Ships Huravee and Ghazee of the Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF), and Sri Lanka Navy Ship Suranimila with embarked Sri Lanka Coast Guard personnel.

The drill series focused on enhancing collective capacity to address common maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean region. Key evolutions included oil spill response management, ship visits, Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) procedures, medical evacuation, anti-piracy, search and rescue and steam past drills.

The Sri Lanka Coast Guard was represented by its Director General, Rear Admiral Rohan Joseph. In conjunction with the exercises, Rear Admiral Joseph and the Commanding Officer of SLNS Suranimila, Captain Senaka Wahala, engaged in bilateral meetings and professional discussions with partner nation counterparts.

The successful execution of this nature of exercise underscores a shared commitment to regional maritime security. By fostering enhanced cooperation and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices, the participating nations strengthen their collective ability to respond to common maritime challenges in the region.