Navy Commander delivers guest lecture at National Defence College

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando, delivered a guest lecture to senior Tri-Services and Police officers of Course No. 5 at the National Defence College (NDC) in Colombo today, 4 November 2026.

Invited by Commandant NDC, Major General Chamila Munasinghe, the Navy Commander addressed senior local and foreign Tri-Forces and Police student officers following the NDC course, on the theme "Preserving Sovereignty, Protecting Prosperity and Remaining Strategically Relevant in a Turbulent World".

During his address, Vice Admiral Fernando emphasized that modern national security extends beyond traditional military threats. He noted that technological advancements, cyber threats, global supply chain disruptions, energy security issues and geopolitical crises directly impact national security, posing distinct risks for small island nations reliant on international trade.

Highlighting Sri Lanka's strategic geographical location in the Indian Ocean near major east-west shipping routes, the Navy Commander explained that this proximity creates significant economic potential in port operations, shipping and maritime services. Realising these opportunities requires a robust maritime security environment, infrastructure development and consistent national policies, he added.

The Navy Chief presented four key strategic challenges for small states: widening technological gaps, intense geopolitical competition among major powers, climate change and natural disasters and information environment vulnerabilities. To address these, he stressed the importance of technological adaptation, strategic autonomy, effective international cooperation, disaster preparedness and public trust in state institutions.

Addressing the role of the Sri Lanka Navy, the Navy Commander stressed that the Navy's performance must be measured not by the volume of operations alone, but by the real strategic outcomes delivered for national security and maritime needs. He outlined the Navy's core mandates: protecting Sri Lanka's maritime access, strengthening maritime domain awareness, supporting maritime law enforcement, curbing illegal activities, providing relief to distressed fishing and naval communities and sustaining a secure environment for international maritime trade.

He underscored that reliable operational readiness rests on continuous training, sound maintenance of ships and equipment, professional leadership, efficient resource management, enhanced interoperability and a willingness to learn from experience and adapt to evolving conditions.

The Navy Commander stressed that the Sri Lanka Navy's aim is not to mimic the size or capabilities of major naval powers, but to build a professional, efficient and reliable force tailored to the nation's strategic needs. Noting that the true measure of naval strength lies in safeguarding sovereignty, securing maritime interests and contributing to national security and prosperity.

Marking the importance of this event and conclusion of proceedings, mementoes were exchanged between the Commander of the Navy and Commandant NDC.