Navy conducts CBRN exercise at Hambantota port

The Sri Lanka Navy led a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) drill at the Hambantota port premises today, 16 September 2026.

The exercise was organized by the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Unit of SLNS Kawantissa, under the Southern Naval Command. Simulations tested various security and disaster scenarios to evaluate operational readiness, cross-agency coordination, and response efficiency during emergencies.

Officials and representatives from the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, Sri Lanka Customs and the Department of Immigration and Emigration participated in the drill.

The training focused on developing practical CBRN awareness among stakeholders, reinforcing inter-agency cooperation, and streamlining response procedures for potential maritime security threats. The theoretical session covered the detection and identification of chemical hazards, protective measures, and rescue protocols, while the practical session focused on the hands-on handling of safety equipment, the safe evacuation of personnel, and methods for the secure disposal of hazardous chemical substances.