FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – On June 1, the Indian naval vessel INS Airavat, along with the Pakistan Navy ships PNS Taimur and PNS Aslat, and the submarine PNS/M Hangor, docked at Colombo Port in Sri Lanka.
According to the Sri Lanka Navy, INS Airavat, a landing ship tank under the command of Commander IP Patil, is on a mission for operational turnaround.
The Pakistan naval ships made this port call as part of a goodwill visit aimed at replenishment.
The Indian crew is set to engage in various “professionally enriching activities and camaraderie-building initiatives” organized by the Sri Lanka Navy. They will also have the opportunity to explore several historic and popular tourist sites throughout the country before the conclusion of their deployment.
The visiting Pakistani naval forces are under the command of several officers, including Captain Niamat Saeed Khan for PNS Taimur, Captain Nadir Mateen Afridi for PNS Aslat, and Captain Uzair Farooq for PNS/M Hangor.
Crew members from the visiting ships and submarine will participate in tours of significant locations across Sri Lanka.
In addition, the Pakistan naval units are scheduled to conduct a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the Sri Lanka Navy off the western coast, as stated by the Sri Lanka Navy. (Colombo/Jun3/2026)
