Multilateral Naval Exercise CARAT–21 commenced in Trincomalee
June 24, 2021Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training Exercise-2021 (CARAT-21) joined by the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN), the United States (US) 7th Fleet and Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) commenced today (June 24) in Trincomalee under real-time virtual setting.
The SLN said the harbour phase of the exercise is held in a virtual setting on June 24 and 25 at the Trincomalee harbour whereas its sea phase will be held from June 26 to 30 off Trincomalee.
According to the Navy sources, the main objectives of the exercise includes enhancing maritime engagement and interoperability, fostering greater coordination in shared maritime challenges, gaining a better understanding of the operational environment, norms and standards, facilitating the linkages between maritime components and law enforcement authorities, enhancing mutual capability in maritime security cooperation and operating in line with international law.
The naval exercise which also enhances partnership among the SLN, US Navy and JMSDF, will feature a variety of joint training opportunities including Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, Maritime Domain Awareness, Maritime Aviation, Replenishment at Sea, Surface TRACKEX, Visit Board Search and Seizure and Search & Rescue.
The SLN’s Offshore Patrol Vessels - SLNS Sayurala and Gajabahu, Sri Lanka Air Force Bell 212 and 412 helicopters, B 200 Beechcraft will be utilized for the exercise while the US 7th Fleet augments the exercise with USS Charleston (LCS 18) – a Littoral Combat Ship, Boeing P-8 Poseidon – a Maritime Patrol Aircraft and an SH-60 helicopter along with Japanese JDS Yūgiri – a destroyer and an MH - 60R helicopter, the SLN added.
SLN Deputy Chief of Staff and Eastern Naval Area Commander, Rear Admiral YN Jayarathne along with a few senior officers, Naval Attaché of the US Embassy in Sri Lanka, Lieutenant Commander Richard Lister, US Embassy officials in Colombo were also present at the occasion adhering to stipulated healthcare guidelines, the SLN confirmed.
