THE STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE OF THE SHIPBORNE AIRCRAFT FOR ENHANCING SRI LANKA NAVY’S MARITIME SECURITY

Abstract

Sri Lanka's strategic location in the Indian Ocean and its expansive Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) present both immense opportunities and significant vulnerabilities. Maritime threats such as piracy, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, arms smuggling, and human trafficking have intensified in recent years, requiring enhanced maritime surveillance and rapid response capabilities (Bandara, 2018; Hapugoda, 2020). This paper critically evaluates the Sri Lanka Navy's (SLN) development of shipborne aircraft as a strategic solution to these challenges. Drawing on qualitative data, the study explores the operational effectiveness of shipborne helicopters, the prerequisites for their deployment, and the broader implications for national security and regional stability. The findings highlight that acquiring shipborne air power is vital to increase effectiveness of operations, and the capability of ships to operate them as well. However, it emphasises of fulfilling other requisites such as training of crew and pilots, requirements of ground support and frequent joint operations with Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF). The paper concludes by recommending implementing increased spending on shipborne aircraft, comprehensive programmes, infrastructure development, staged execution and inter-service cooperation in order to increase effectiveness of operations.