The Indian Navy’s ship, INS Kalpeni, arrived in Colombo today (19th October), according to a statement from the High Commission of India. The ship was warmly received by the Sri Lanka Navy, adhering to naval traditions. During its stay, the Commanding Officer, Commander Sunil Kulhari, will meet with the Commander of the Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe.
INS Kalpeni, a Car Nicobar-class Waterjet Fast Attack Craft (FAC), was commissioned on 14 October 2010 and is named after Kalpeni Island in the Lakshadweep group of islands. Based in Kochi, the vessel primarily undertakes coastal surveillance, anti-smuggling, vessel boarding, search and seizure, and search and rescue operations.
The ship is on an Operational Turnaround port call from 19-21 October 2024, during which it will deliver essential technical support tools to the Sri Lanka Navy. The crew will also visit key sites around Colombo while the ship undergoes replenishment.
Earlier this year, INS Kabra, a similar vessel, visited Colombo and provided spare parts to the Sri Lanka Navy and Air Force. These visits enhance the cooperation and interoperability between the Indian and Sri Lankan navies, fostering stronger bilateral ties in line with India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region).
