India, Sri Lanka look forward to revive defence ties

Post the collapse of LTTE, New Delhi is looking at a new order emerging in Colombo that would encompass increased engagement between the two countries’ armed forces. High level talks are on cards between the defence secretaries and military top brass of India and Sri Lanka.

New Delhi has a policy of not providing offensive weapons to Colombo as it has learnt a lesson after Sri Lanka used air defence artillery guns supplied to it by India for peaceful surveillance, to wipe out LTTE.
Sources, however, say New Delhi is now considering the feasibility of sale of weapons to Colombo. Defence minister AK Antony has also said that India is exporting 40mm L-70 gun barrels to Sri lanka.

India has extended a line of credit of $100 million towards its commitment to the capacity building and capability enhancement of the Sri Lankan navy. India had gifted an offshore patrol vessel (OPV) to the Sri Lankan navy, now operated as SLN Sayura.

Two Coast Guard OPVs are also on lease with SLN. The Indian Navy also provides extensive training support to the Sri Lankan navy.

Besides, India has announced major projects in Sri Lanka. One is 50,000 houses for displaced Tamils in the northern and eastern provinces and $416 million project for Lankan railways.