INS Tarangini docks in Colombo, hosting Sri Lanka naval cadets for training

In a significant stride towards deepening maritime cooperation, Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Tarangini arrived in Colombo on 6th March 2026, following an intensive sail training deployment with the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) seariders .

Three officers and 26 trainees from the Sri Lanka Naval and Maritime Academy embarked the ship at Trincomalee, gaining hands-on experience in sail setting, watchkeeping, and ship handling under the expert guidance of INS Tarangini’s crew. The sea passage offered extensive practical exposure, enhancing interoperability and mutual learning between the two navies.

On arrival in Colombo, the ship was warmly received by SLN officials and representatives from the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka . The Commanding Officer of INS Tarangini called on Rear Admiral Jagath Kumara, Commander Western Naval Area , to discuss avenues for further naval cooperation and the exchange of best practices.

During the three-day port visit, the ship is set to engage in bilateral training exercises , professional exchanges, and a series of cultural and outreach activities . The crews from both navies will also take part in friendly sports matches, joint yoga sessions, and other collaborative events, further cementing the growing ties between the maritime forces of India and Sri Lanka.

Earlier, at Trincomalee, Cmde Dinesh Bandara , Commandant of the SLN Naval and Maritime Academy, visited INS Tarangini and interacted with the embarked trainees, reinforcing the spirit of partnership and shared learning.

This deployment marks yet another chapter in the India-Sri Lanka maritime partnership , reflecting both nations’ commitment to strengthening regional security, professional exchanges, and naval camaraderie in the Indian Ocean region.