Indian Navy’s ship INS Jamuna will not only conduct surveys but also provide training to the Sri Lanka Navy’s sailors. Commanded by Captain H A Hardas, INS Jamuna (J16) is a Sandhayak class Hydrographic Survey Ship. Reached on February 6th INS Jamuna has been deployed to Sri Lanka based on a mutual agreement to carry out Joint Hydrographic Survey off the South West Coast of Sri Lanka.
According to a press release, the Commanding Officer called on Rear Admiral Sisira Jayakody, Chief Hydrographer of Sri Lanka Navy and Rear Admiral SA Weerasinghe, Commander Western Naval Area.
“Over the two months deployment period, the ship will carry out detailed hydrographic surveys and several shore-based survey activities. Sri Lanka Navy personnel will embark the ship during the conduct of the Joint Survey. Additionally Sri Lanka Navy personnel will also be provided ‘hands on’ survey training during every operational turn around in port.” said a release.
As a precursor to the survey operations at sea, several shore-based survey activities were progressed during the ship’s stay in Colombo harbour including familiarization visit of Sri Lankan personnel onboard, briefing on capabilities of the ship , and a Harbour Training Program for the SLN sailors .
INS Jamuna also hosted a meeting between Rear Admiral Sisira Jayakody, Chief Hydrographer of Sri Lankan Navy, officers of Sri Lankan hydrographic department and Indian officers of the ship.
