MONETABRIEF – The US Navy and Coast Guard will hold exercises with Sri Lanka Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force to boost maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, for a "safer, more secure Indian Ocean", the American embassy said.
Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT), wil be hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy in Trincomalee and Colombo from July 27-31.
"This exercise reflects the United States' enduring commitment to our security partnership with Sri Lanka," Lt. Col. Matthew House, U.S. Embassy Senior Defense Official and Defense Attaché to Sri Lanka said in a statement.
"When our sailors train side-by-side, they build the trust, interoperability, and professional relationships that allow us to respond more effectively together when it matters most.
"We saw that firsthand during last year's response to Cyclone Ditwah, when the relationships built through years of cooperation enabled our forces to work seamlessly alongside one another in support of the Sri Lankan people."
CARAT has strengthened operational coordination with the military of the two countries since 2017.
The exercise will involve a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft.
It will support maritime domain awareness training and coordinated operations, helping both navies strengthen their ability to monitor maritime activity and respond to incidents across the Indian Ocean, the American embassy said.
A U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Engagement Team (MET) will also train aboard SLNS Gajabahu (P626), the former U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Douglas Munro transferred by the United States.
A U.S.-provided rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) will be used during maritime operations
U.S. and Sri Lanka Navy personnel will also participate in classroom exchanges and hands-on training in maritime domain awareness, tactical medicine, explosive ordnance disposal, and visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) operations before applying them as sea.
"With Sri Lanka situated along one of the world's busiest maritime corridors, the ability of our navies to work together has real-world importance," the statement said.
Community service projects, sporting events, and cultural exchanges which strengthen the personal relationships between service members will also be a part of CARAT Sri Lanka. (Colombo/Julty27/2026)