Page 253 - MDSL Final

FUTURE NAVY
Naval Aviation

When analysing the potential of the present naval assets against the
ocean mass that has been vested to Sri Lanka, the requirement of
positioning the Navy in a much stronger position is essential. The vastness
of the ocean space presents challenges to even the most advanced and
developed navies in the world. No Navy has the capability and capacity
to place surveillance on each and every square mile on the ocean space.

It is a well-known fact that effective maritime surveillance and sea control
with the assistance of foreign nations have immeasurably contributed
to the eradication of terrorism from this island which was almost
dragged for three decades. There are enough evidence from modern
history of this island nation to prove the necessity of fleet air arm for
SLN and modernized threat scenario having varying dimensions; mainly
drug trafficking, arms and human smuggling, IUU fishing, pollution
prevention, and protection of commercial shipping lanes have enhanced
such necessity.

Therefore, it is timely that SLN recommence the endeavour of forming
the Naval Air Arm. At present SLN possesses five helicopter landing
platforms and few more to include in the inventory with the advancement
of SLN Maritime Strategy 2025. Training is already underway with the
assistance of SLAF. In addition, steps have been taken to acquire UAVs
to commence limited air surveillances. The greater active involvement
of the SLAF, utilizing its core competencies would provide to augment
the role already played by the SLN and the SLCG. To meet this need we
need to identify a sound mechanism, specifics, build capacity and share
knowledge and participate in a wider spectrum of activities. Thus, the
way forward is to utilise available OPV/AOPV helicopter platforms which
are already equipped with other related infrastructure with helicopters
as a short term measure to expand the present surveillance and as a long
term measure by establishing a naval air arm and augment surveillance
with fixed wing maritime patrol aircraft for a more effective and a long
range maritime surveillance.

To Nurture a Stable Environment at Sea 233