INS Mumbai to arrive in Colombo for three-day visit
The Indian Navy’s warship, INS Mumbai, is set to arrive in Colombo on August 26 for a three-day visit. The Sri Lanka Navy will extend a ceremonial welcome to the destroyer, marking its first visit to a Sri Lankan port and the eighth visit by an Indian Navy ship to Sri Lanka in 2024.
INS Mumbai, commissioned on January 22, 2001, is the third of the Delhi-class destroyers and was constructed at Mazagon Dock Limited in Mumbai. The ship recently underwent a mid-life upgrade and rejoined the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam on December 8, 2023.
During its stay, INS Mumbai will deliver essential spare parts for the Dornier maritime patrol aircraft used by the Sri Lanka Air Force. This aircraft, which was inducted into service two years ago, is vital for maritime surveillance and search and rescue operations within Sri Lanka’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The Indian Navy has been instrumental in supporting the maintenance of this aircraft through technical assistance and supply of spares.
The visit will feature a familiarization tour of INS Mumbai for Sri Lanka Navy personnel, aimed at sharing operational practices. Additionally, the ship’s Commanding Officer will meet with Rear Admiral WDCU Kumarasinghe, the Commander of the Western Naval Area.
INS Mumbai’s visit will include joint activities with the Sri Lanka Navy such as sports events, yoga sessions, and a beach cleaning initiative. Classified as an Operational Turn Around (OTR), the visit will also involve replenishing fuel and provisions. The crew will have the chance to explore local sites in Colombo and Galle.
The warship is scheduled to depart Sri Lanka on August 29.
