Navy Commander concludes visit to Northern Naval Command
The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando concluded the official visit to the Northern Naval Command on 23 September 2026, after inspecting operational readiness, development projects and welfare initiatives across the Northern Naval Area.
During an inspection on 23 September of the security duties and operational activities of SLNS Welusumana at Mandaitivu island, Jaffna, the Commander of the Navy issued directives for execution of duties related to the island's security, its surrounding sea area, and the daily activities of the local fishing community and residents. He was accompanied by the Commander Northern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Dammika Wijewardana, Director General Personnel, Rear Admiral Sanjeewa Premarathne, Director General Civil Engineering, Rear Admiral Ravindra Gunasinghe, Director General Logistics, Rear Admiral Achala De Silva, Commandant Naval Infantry, Rear Admiral Kusal Dissanayake and other heads of departments. Subsequently, addressing officers and sailors at SLNS Kanchadeva on Kayts island, the Commander emphasized the Navy's continued commitment to the security and welfare of the northern island communities.
The visit also covered operations on Pungudutivu island, where the Navy Commander inspected naval operations and infrastructure projects at the naval jetty and the Kurikadduwan jetty under SLNS Gotaimbara. At SLNS Elara in Karainagar, Vice Admiral Fernando instructed officers to maintain continuous patrols to deter illegal maritime activities in northern waters. He also reviewed the progress of a new naval jetty currently under construction at the base.
During the course of his visits, the Navy Commander directed that welfare facilities be upgraded for personnel serving at remote island detachments and aboard deployment craft. Addressing officers and sailors, he underscored that the Navy expects continued dedication from all in safeguarding local fishing livelihoods, assisting public institutions, and supporting broader national development, in addition to its primary national security responsibilities.