Navy Commander concludes successful observation visit to Southern Naval Command

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando, concluded a two-day observation visit to the Southern Naval Command today (20 October 2026), following a review of operations, administrative functions and welfare projects across the Command.

Accompanied by the Commander Southern Naval Area, Rear Admiral HNS Perera, and a group of senior naval officers, the Navy Commander arrived at SLNS Dakshina and SLNS Nipuna today, 20 October, for an observation visit. Among the senior officers were; Director General Training Rear Admiral Rohan Joseph, Director General Civil Engineering Rear Admiral Ravi Gunasinghe, Director General Budget and Finance Rear Admiral Anuruddha Karunathilaka, Director General Operations Rear Admiral Chaminda Karunasena, Deputy Area Commander Commodore Aruna Weerasinghe, Heads of Departments and Commanding Officers.

The inspection covered the Captain Logistics Department, Naval Sewing Centre and the Motor Engineering Workshop in the Command. The Navy Chief instructed officers to further enhance operational efficiency of respective departments and build upon the high standards of production at the Sewing Centre and improve staff welfare.

At SLNS Nipuna, he reviewed training infrastructure and met with officers and sailors of the Directing Staff. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high training standards to strengthen tactical knowledge, situational awareness and operational decision-making among trainees. He also highlighted the responsibility of instructors in upholding discipline and conduct among all naval personnel.

Following the observation at SLNS Dakshina, Vice Admiral Fernando took part in the review of the fleet units. There, he issued the necessary directives to ensure operational readiness is continuously maintained, a priority that will remain central to the Navy's fleet preparedness.

Reviewing the wider role of the Navy in national security and development, the Commander called for continued commitment from all personnel to maintain operational readiness, administrative efficiency and optimal welfare standards.