Australia Donates ATVs & Drones to Sri Lanka Coast Guard

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Australian Government donated five high-performance All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and twelve long-range drones to the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, boosting Sri Lanka’s maritime security capabilities in strengthening coastal surveillance and combating illegal activities at sea.

The donation coincided with the official launch of the third phase of Operation Disi Rela, a joint maritime security initiative between Australia and Sri Lanka, which was ceremonially inaugurated on June 8, 2026.

The operation will continue until June 17, spanning key coastal locations including Colombo, Trincomalee, Valaichchenai, Batticaloa, and Mirissa.

The newly provided ATVs and advanced drone technology are expected to dramatically enhance the Sri Lanka Coast Guard’s ability to monitor coastal areas, respond swiftly to threats, and strengthen enforcement operations across the country’s maritime zones.

Operation Disi Rela, which translates to “keeping a watchful eye over the maritime environment,” reflects a shared strategic vision between the two nations to safeguard regional waters from evolving threats. Building on the success of previous operations, this third phase aims to deepen cooperation through enhanced joint operations, improved intelligence sharing, and greater coordination among law enforcement agencies.

A key focus of the operation is the fight against transnational maritime crimes, including human trafficking, drug smuggling, and illegal fishing, issues that continue to pose serious risks to regional stability and economic security.

By fostering stronger engagement with coastal communities and deploying advanced surveillance capabilities, authorities aim to create a more resilient and responsive maritime security network.

The launch event brought together senior officials from both countries, highlighting the importance of the partnership. Among those in attendance were Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Matthew Duckworth, Australian Defence Adviser Colonel Amanda Johnston, and representatives from the Australian High Commission.

Representing Sri Lanka were Deputy Director General of the Coast Guard, Commodore Prasad Jayasinghe, along with senior officers from the Tri-Forces and key departmental heads.