U.S Delivers $4 Million Satellite Communications System To Sri Lanka For Protecting Indian Ocean Shipping Routes

The U.S. delivered a satellite communications system worth $4 million to the Sri Lankan Navy to strengthen maritime security in the Indian Ocean and safeguard critical shipping routes.

Manufactured by Cobham and Inmarsat, the Fleet Broadband System will be fitted on Sri Lanka’s offshore patrol ships, enabling ship-to-ship and shore-to-shore communications.

This would allow naval warships to remain connected while operating far from the country’s coasts.

According to the U.S State Department, the system would allow naval vessels to remain in touch with the naval headquarters at all times and also connect with other ships and aircraft operating in the region.

Officials from Sri Lanka and the U.S also discussed how communications technology could support disaster response and also help counter illegal activities like trafficking and even piracy in the Indian Ocean.

The system will enable quick response to emergencies, and safeguard cargo ships as well, a U.S official said.

It is also expected to enhance maritime awareness and operational coordination while supporting efforts to intercept ships engaged in illicit activities.

The system will help authorities to track and monitor sanctioned vessels and safeguard supply chains.

Sri Lanka’s deputy defence minister, retired Maj. Gen. Aruna Jayasekara said the system would strengthen defence cooperation between Colombo and Washington.

Jayasekara added that the communications system would enable the maintenance of reliable communications across the Sri Lankan naval fleet and improve situational awareness and sharing of critical information with regional partners and allies.

The U.S. said that the system would definitely enable Colombo’s navy to work more effectively with partners during joint drills, exercises, missions and maritime security operations.