Sri Lanka Navy ceremonially occupies in the Defence Headquarters Complex in Akuregoda

Marking the proud occasion of the Sri Lanka Navy's 75th anniversary, the ceremonial occupation of the Navy Headquarters (Block No. 3) at the Defence Headquarters Complex (DHQC) in Akuregoda was held today (09 Dec 25). The ceremony was graced by the Hon. Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), as the Chief Guest, at the invitation of the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda.

The occasion was also dignified by the presence of Admiral of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda, the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya, former Navy Commanders and distinguished guests.

The Deputy Minister of Defence arrived at Navy Headquarters and was received with a Guard of Honour. He then unveiled the Navy Headquarters plaque. To solemnize the occasion, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, and Islamic religious dignitaries conducted traditional rituals and offered prayers for the Navy’s 75th anniversary and its future endeavours.

The Navy's 75th anniversary First Day Cover was issued at the Navy Headquarters Auditorium, where the Commander of the Navy presented the inaugural First Day Cover to the Hon. Deputy Minister of Defence.

To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Navy, the 75th Anniversary Medal was conferred upon all naval personnel in service as of this date. At the ceremonial event, the Hon. Deputy Minister symbolically presented the medal to a representative group of personnel including the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, Chief of Staff, Rear Admiral Damian Fernando, Deputy Chief Staff and Director General Logistics, Rear Admiral Ruwan Kalubowila, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, AHD Weerathunga, and Woman Master Chief Petty Officer, HAN Mangalika.

Welcoming the august gathering, the Navy Commander expressed gratitude to every member of the workforce, both in uniform and civvies, and former commanders who contributed in numerous ways to make this endeavour a reality. He stated that this co-location demonstrates an integrated approach to national security and will enhance the overall effectiveness of the defence institution.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Minister of Defence stated that the Navy Headquarters in Akuregoda is a key step in creating an integrated, modern defence complex. This move unifies the national security institutions, optimizing resources and coordination to enhance both operational and administrative efficiency he opined. On the Navy's 75th anniversary, he recognized the Navy’s vital role in maritime security and disaster relief and paid tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.

The Navy’s origins trace back to the Naval Volunteer Force Ordinance No. 01 of 1937, which paved the way for the establishment of the Ceylon Volunteer Naval Force in 1939. The establishment of the Royal Ceylon Navy on 09 December 1950, under the provisions of the Navy Act No. 34 of 1950, marked the proud beginning of a Regular Naval Force in the country. With the country's transition to a republic in 1972, the Royal Ceylon Navy became the Sri Lanka Navy, continuously expanding its capabilities and securing the nation's maritime boundaries.

The Sri Lanka Navy, is today steadily expanding its capabilities. Strengthened by modern technology, enhanced operational capacity, and well-trained personnel, the Navy is progressing in line with the Naval Strategic Plan 2030 to operate effectively in its missions. Committed to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests, the Sri Lanka Navy continues to maximize the use of its resources and expertise to fulfil the country’s national maritime security aspirations.

In support of the national mission to safeguard future generations from the threat of narcotics, the Navy has intensified anti-drug operations across the island. These efforts are conducted in close coordination with other law enforcement agencies under the “A Nation United” National Mission. The Navy is also implementing a range of environmentally sustainable initiatives under the “Clean Sri Lanka” national programme, aimed at preserving the sustainability of the marine environment across the country.

Furthermore, as Sri Lanka upholds its international maritime responsibilities, the Navy remains committed to ensuring the lawful use of the ocean from domestic waters to the wider seas. In doing so, it provides vital assistance to maritime and fishing communities in distress within the Sri Lanka’s search and rescue region, undertakes humanitarian and disaster relief operations, and counters non-traditional maritime threats and illegal activities that affect regional maritime security. These responsibilities are fulfilled in close cooperation with regional and global maritime partners.

Furthermore, on the proud occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Navy, it pays solemn tribute to the brave men who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of our nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Moreover, the Sri Lanka Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests. Guided by the Ministry of Defence, the Navy continues to advance its responsibilities at sea, upholding its military, diplomatic and constabulary roles.