Sri Lanka Army Hosts U.S. NDU Delegation to Strengthen Defense Ties

The Sri Lanka Army hosted a working lunch with a high-level delegation from the U.S. National Defense University (NDU) on 07 November 2024 at Army Headquarters, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the U.S. Embassy. The event aimed to enhance bilateral military cooperation and strategic defense understanding.

The delegation’s visit was part of the NDU’s program to prepare senior officers for leadership roles in multinational military operations. Key discussions focused on Sri Lanka’s strategic positioning in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific regions. Major General W.P.A.D.W. Nanayakkara RSP VSV USP ndu, Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army, highlighted the Army’s strategic objectives and operational challenges. Rear Admiral B.A.K.S.P. Banagoda RSP USP ndc psc, Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Navy, elaborated on maritime security priorities, including countering illegal maritime activities and safeguarding critical sea lanes. Air Vice Marshal R.S. Wickremeratne RWP and two Bars RSP and two Bars USP, Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Air Force, discussed the Air Force's role in national security and disaster management. Colonel M.B.B.N. Herath RSP, Overlooking Director General & Acting Director (Research) of the Institute of National Security Studies (INSS), Provided an analytical perspective on Sri Lanka’s security role in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region.

The forum included a Q&A session, followed by reciprocal memento exchanges between the U.S. delegation and Sri Lankan officials, symbolising strengthened defense ties and commitment to regional stability. Senior U.S. officials, the Defence Attaché, participants from the U.S. National Defense University, the Commandant of the National Defence College Sri Lanka and Senior Officers from the Tri-Forces participated in the event.