FUTURE MARITIME SECURITY CONCERNS OF THE SRI LANKA NAVY: CHALLENGES VERSUS SOLUTIONS

Loading...
Thumbnail Image
Authors
Liyanagamage, Buddhika
Subjects
maritime security
Indian Ocean Region
traditional security threats
non-traditional security threats
conventional warfare
non-conventional warfare
maritime rivalry
Sea lines of communication
China
India
United States
Sri Lanka Navy
non-alignment
trade and energy security
naval expansion
power struggles
re-tooling of strategies
transformation
Advisors
Halladay, Carolyn C.
Date of Issue
2018-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis explores how the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) can effectively face its maritime security challenges by utilizing available resources and establishing a maritime strategy to ensure peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Specifically, the analysis examines security concerns in the IOR, the extra-regional power rivalry between India and China, why sea lines of communication need protection, initiatives to improve maritime security, and why maritime cooperation is important to the SLN. Additionally, this thesis looks at how smaller island nations―Seychelles, Mauritius, New Zealand, and Singapore―have equipped their navies to face the evolving maritime security environment by utilizing available resources. Ultimately, this study recommends Sri Lanka and its navy establish effective security measures by implementing strict maritime laws and drafting bi-lateral agreements with India to counter transnational organized crime. Sri Lanka should also consider implementing joint maritime patrols and a permanent foreign policy in the IOR; maintaining non-aligned status with every nation; building interoperability with sister forces, maritime agencies, foreign navies, and coast guards; and implementing the SLN resources into conventional practices. Finally, based on qualitative research and analysis, this thesis recommends right-sizing the SLN and establishing research and development expertise to utilize Sri Lankan military resources effectively.
Type
Thesis
Description
Department
National Security Affairs (NSA)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.
Collections