Sri Lanka Naval Ship (SLNS) Vijayabahu which took part in the multinational naval exercise AMAN – 2025, hosted for the ninth time by Pakistan Navy, arrived the island on successful completion of the exercise on 17 Feb 25.

Upon her arrival, the Navy welcomed the ship in compliance with naval traditions at the Port of Colombo.

AMAN series of multinational exercises were started in 2007 with a view to promote regional cooperation and stability, greater interoperability and to display a united resolve against piracy, terrorism and crimes in maritime domain.

The multinational naval exercise which encompassed both Harbour and Sea Phases, was held from 10 to 14 Feb, centered around Karachi and the Arabian Sea and the exercise saw participation from 11 countries, involving 22 naval ships, 02 submarines, and aircraft.

Representing the Sri Lanka Navy, SLNS Vijayabahu took part in an assortment of exercises including; maritime security, counter piracy and humanitarian assistance, manoeuvres and formation, firing practices and a wide range of other exercises.

The ninth edition of AMAN 2025 successfully concluded following the International Fleet Review, which marked the end of the Sea Phase.

Commander Northern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Thushara Karunathunga represented the Sri Lanka Navy at AMAN Dialogue – 2025, held with the attendance of navy chiefs, intellectuals and stakeholders from the maritime fraternity, on the sidelines of the multinational naval exercise.

Moreover, Rear Admiral Thushara Karunathunga had the opportunity to call on Chief of the Naval Staff of Pakistan Navy, Admiral Naveed Ashraf. Additionally, the Chief of the Naval Staff of Pakistan Navy took time off to visit SLNS Vijayabahu and the significant occasion was marked with an exchange of mementoes.

In conjunction with this event, a cultural exchange programme was organized, featuring a series of vibrant cultural performances by the Navy’s cultural troupe.

SLNS Vijayabahu also participated in a food gala, showcasing an array of traditional culinary delights.

The Pakistan Navy had organized cross ship visits to witness the operational effectiveness and technical equipment of the participating vessels. During this event, the crew of SLNS Vijayabahu had the opportunity to enhance their knowledge regarding the capabilities of both regional and extra-regional navies, as well as to exchange valuable experiences.

Taking part in this nature of naval exercises would open new avenues to the Sri Lanka Navy to build inter-operability with regional and extra-regional partners, exchange best practices and procedures in maritime operations, identify new challenges in maritime domain and collectively find solutions to overcome those issues.