Australia and Sri Lanka strengthen maritime security partnership through Disi Rela

The Australian Border Force and the Sri Lanka Coast Guard have launched Disi Rela 2026, marking the third consecutive year of the joint maritime security initiative aimed at strengthening maritime surveillance, operational capability, and public awareness across Sri Lanka’s coastal regions.

This year, Disi Rela 2026 expands its community engagement and public awareness activities to Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, following successful programmes conducted in the Western and Southern Provinces in previous years.

Meaning “keeping a watchful eye over the maritime environment,” Disi Rela reflects the continued partnership between Australia and Sri Lanka to strengthen maritime security, combat transnational maritime crime, and promote safer seas across the region.

Over the past three years, the Australian Government has supported Sri Lanka’s maritime security efforts under the Disi Rela initiative through the donation of 24 surveillance drones, three all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), three Stabicraft patrol vessels, and the establishment of a dedicated 24/7 hotline (106).

Further strengthening the Sri Lanka Coast Guard’s operational capability, the Australian Government will donate an additional five all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) under Disi Rela 2026 to support coastal surveillance and rapid response operations.

The Director General of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard, Rear Admiral Rohan Joseph, said Disi Rela 2026 demonstrates the enduring cooperation between the Sri Lanka Coast Guard and the Australian Border Force in strengthening maritime security across the region.

Commander Maritime Border Command and Commander Joint Agency Task Force Operation Sovereign Borders, Rear Admiral Brett Sonter AM of the Royal Australian Navy, said the initiative reflects the strong and ongoing partnership between Australia and Sri Lanka.

“For the third consecutive year, Disi Rela demonstrates the importance both Australia and Sri Lanka place on maritime security and regional cooperation. Through continued capability building, operational support, and community engagement, we are working together to strengthen maritime safety and security across the region,” he said.

The public is encouraged to report suspicious maritime activity through the dedicated 24/7 hotline 106. Calls can be made anonymously.

Disi Rela 2026 reflects the ongoing cooperation between Australia and Sri Lanka in promoting a secure, stable, and resilient maritime environment across the Indian Ocean region.