The United States has announced the provision of advanced Fleet Broadband satellite communications technology to the Sri Lanka Navy, in a move aimed at strengthening maritime security and connectivity across the Indian Ocean.
The announcement was made today aboard the Sri Lanka Navy vessel SLNS Gajabahu at the Port of Colombo by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Paul Kapur.
According to the U.S. Embassy, the comprehensive Fleet Broadband system, manufactured by Cobham and Inmarsat, is valued at approximately US$4 million (over Rs. 1.2 billion) and will be installed across the Sri Lanka Navy’s offshore patrol vessel fleet.
The technology will provide secure ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications, enabling reliable voice and data connectivity far beyond coastal waters. It is also expected to improve real-time information sharing between vessels, aircraft, and naval headquarters.
Officials said the system will strengthen maritime domain awareness, enhance operational coordination, support emergency response efforts, assist in combating illicit trafficking, monitor sanctioned vessels, and help safeguard key international shipping routes.
Speaking at the event, Kapur described the technology as a “transformational upgrade” for the Sri Lanka Navy, noting that it would eliminate communication gaps at sea and improve the country’s ability to respond to emergencies and disrupt illegal activity across the Indian Ocean.
Deputy Minister of Defence Major General (Retd.) Aruna Jayasekara said the new capability would significantly enhance Sri Lanka’s maritime surveillance and reinforce defence cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United States.
The event was also attended by Sri Lanka Navy Commander Kanchana Banagoda. (Newswire)