INS Tir, INS Sujata and ICGS Sarathi arrives in Colombo

Three (3) ships belonging to the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron (1TS), INS Tir, INS Sujata and ICGS Sarathi, arrived in Sri Lanka today, 26 October 2026, on a formal visit. The visiting ships were welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in accordance with time-honoured naval traditions.

A total of 135 officer under-trainees are participating in the visit on board the three vessels. INS Tir, a Training Ship of 107m in length, is commanded by Captain Tijo K Joseph. INS Sujata, an Offshore Patrol Vessel of 103m, is commanded by Commander Jishnu Madhavan, while ICGS Sarathi, an Offshore Patrol Vessel of 105m, is commanded by Commandant Kundan Singh.

Meanwhile, the Commanding Officers of the visiting ships called on the Commander Western Naval Area Rear Admiral Harsha De Silva at the Western Naval Command Headquarters today. Mementoes were also exchanged between them, signifying the importance of this occasion.

During their stay in the country, the crews and officer under-trainees are scheduled to take part in programmes organised by the Sri Lanka Navy to foster bilateral ties and mutual cooperation. Personnel of the Sri Lanka Navy will also have the opportunity to visit the training operations aboard the vessels and exchange professional expertise.

In addition, the visiting personnel are expected to tour several key locations and places of interest across the island during their visit.