Page 95 - navstrat

NAVSTRAT-2030

Peacetime Concept of Operation

Currently, the SLN deploys ships for EEZ patrol based on analysed information only, without
maintaining dedicated sea units at different geographical areas to address multi-dimensional
threats 24 x 7 due to cost considerations. Instead, the SLN utilizes maritime domain awareness
tools to identify white shipping and dark targets and planning to invest in satellite imagery in
suspicious areas for further analysis. However, the SLN faces challenges in directing physical
assets for further investigation. Therefore, it is advisable for the SLN to initiate with shipborne
UAVs for extended Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR).

Nevertheless, the SLN needs to consider the optimal utilization of the existing fleet, deviating from
solely operating based on information. Even during peacetime, once dark targets are filtered
through the criteria explained above, there should be a few sea-going assets floating in demarcated
strategic areas to perform such tasks 24 x 7. To reduce wear and tear and fuel wastage, it is advised
to use vessels for 20 to 30 nights, particularly capable AOPVs/ OPVs. Moreover, the SLN may
need to address maritime terrorism, piracy or hostage activities at sea in the future, requiring Naval
Contingency Force trained in special operations at sea.

In addition to security concerns, Sri Lanka is prone to natural disasters and marine accidents,
necessitating the SLN’s involvement in SAR and disaster relief operations at sea. The SLN is also
responsible for conducting hydrographic surveys of its area of operation during peacetime.

Requirement of UAVs to the Sri Lanka Navy

UAVs have gained significant attention in enhancing maritime surveillance and reconnaissance
capabilities. Their advantages such as extended flight times, heightened deployment flexibility and
the ability to capture high-resolution imagery and sensor data make them indispensable for
monitoring marine operations. Across the IOR, countries are increasingly integrating UAVs into
their maritime security strategies enabling efficient coverage of maritime zones and swift
responses to emerging threats.

UAVs can serve as force multipliers for SLN ships by extending the force sensor horizon and
enabling stand-off offensive and defensive capabilities within equipment constraints. Tactical
UAVs can offer opportunities for deploying limited aviation capabilities from a range of minor
war vessels including patrol boats for tasks such as surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence
collection and communications.

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