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NAVSTRAT-2030

Sri Lanka’s flourishing blue economy is heavily reliant on the ocean-based service sector.
Therefore, the preservation of economic growth and prosperity necessitates a paramount focus on
maritime safety and security. An indispensable element in achieving this is the establishment of
an effective Maritime SAR system. Such a system is critical for fostering a safer and more secure
environment for maritime industries, coastal adventure tourism, travel and overall economic
development.

In this strategic initiative, the SLN is focusing to fortify the MRCC. This enhancement will involve
establishing a separate and independent management system, incorporating a well-structured SAR
organization and upgrading communication capabilities, including the Global Maritime Distress
and Safety System (GMDSS) distress system. Additionally, the MRCC will expand its reach by
establishing a Rescue Sub-Centre (RSC) at the Port of Hambantota. This extension aims to
improve the coordination of SAR-related incidents in proximity to the busy sea lanes south of Sri
Lanka, complementing the efforts of MRCC Colombo.

Furthermore, a network of new coastal radio stations is planned to establish in Kallarawa, Galle,
Arugambay, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Point Pedro and Mullikulam. These stations will play a
pivotal role in monitoring radio distress frequencies and facilitating ship-to-ship and ship-to-land
communications. This comprehensive approach will enable the SLN and the SLCG to coordinate
SAR incidents seamlessly with other maritime stakeholders with a particular emphasis on
collaboration with the SLAF for expeditious responses to maritime search and rescue operations.

Maritime Environment Protection
The SLN and SLCG play vital roles in safeguarding the maritime environment, with a particular
focus on combating marine pollution. In Sri Lanka, the Coast Guard serves as the initial responder
in oil spill response and management, adhering to the guidelines outlined in the National Oil Spill
Contingency Planning (NOSCOP). Their proactive approach ensures swift and effective measures
are taken in the event of oil spill incidents. Concurrently, the SLN is mandated to maintain a
capable oil pollution response team to manage potential oil spillage, up to tier one level, within its
operational purview. In compliance with the NOSCOP, both the SLN and the SLCG are equipped
with substantial, well-trained personnel to address major oil spill incidents. This preparedness
encompasses the ability to engage in oil containment and clean-up operations, aligning with
NOSCOP’s stipulations as an integral component of the national safety strategy. The emphasis on
maintaining trained personnel and a coordinated response underscores the commitment of the SLN
and SLCG to environmental protection and maritime safety.

Maritime Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ)

Approximately 64 percent of the earth’s oceans fall under Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction
(ABNJ), making the conservation and protection of biodiversity in these areas a collective
responsibility. The Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) treaty denotes a significant
advancement in global ocean governance, addressing gaps in the existing legal framework for
marine biodiversity conservation. However, the effective enforcement of such agreements relies
on advanced technologies like surveillance and monitoring tools. In the Sri Lankan context, only
the Navy and Coast Guard possess the capabilities to engage in monitoring and regulatory duties,
as other maritime agencies lack brown water facilities. Therefore, a well-equipped and sizeable
naval and Coast Guard force is crucial to addressing the unique challenges posed by biodiversity
conservation beyond national jurisdiction. To fully support the current international effort in
regulating the BBNJ, the Sri Lankan government must ensure that the SLN and SLCG forces are

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