Page 178 - MDSL Final

CONCEPTS AND APPLICATION OF MARITIME POWER
Preventive Diplomacy

Preventive diplomacy aims to prevent disputes for developing, or to
prevent existing disputes from escalating. The capacity of warships
to poise and be persistent is particularly important in this phase as
governments attempt resolve complex an ambiguous circumstances.

The Constabulary Role

The increasing incidents of maritime crime have brought into sharp focus
the constabulary role that Navies have to perform. In the constabulary
role, forces are employed to enforce law of the land or to implement
a regime established by an international mandate. Force is only
employed for self-defence or as a last resort in execution of this role. The
protection and promotion of Sri Lanka’s maritime security is one of the
prime responsibilities of the SLN. This includes a constabulary element,
especially where it relates to threats that involve use of force at sea.
The range of tasks that the SLN has to undertake in the constabulary
role ranges from Limited Maritime Operations to maintain good order
at sea. This further includes aspects of coastal and offshore security, as
part of Sri Lanka’s overall maritime security. Constabulary tasks at sea
are neither the primary nor the sole mandate of the SLN.

Search and Rescue Operations

Under international law, all vessels on the high seas are required to
assist to conduct maritime search and rescue operations. The Maritime
Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) located at Naval Headquarters
operates under the SLN. This is the National Maritime Search and Rescue
Coordinating Authority for Search and Rescue (SAR) operations in the Sri
Lankan Search and Rescue region. The SLN works in close coordination
with the Sri Lanka Coast Guard and augments efforts as required. In
addition, naval assets can also be utilised for SAR tasks in the hinterland,
especially in water bodies.

To Nurture a Stable Environment at Sea 159