US transfers fourth former Coast Guard cutter to Sri Lanka Navy

The maritime partnership between the United States (US) and the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) has been strengthened with the transfer of another former US Coast Guard cutter.

This is the fourth such vessel to be provided to Sri Lanka, with the handover taking place in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. The vessel is the former USCGC Decisive.

The US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, announced this via ‘X’, linking the transfer to the ongoing disaster response.

“As response efforts for Cyclone Ditwah are underway, including those via sea, we’re reminded how much strong maritime partnerships matter,” Ambassador Chung said.

The Ambassador confirmed that the vessel’s voyage to Sri Lankan waters is expected to take several months.

Once operational, the cutter is anticipated to significantly enhance the Sri Lanka Navy's capabilities in several critical areas such as combating drug trafficking and smuggling, while strengthening search and rescue (SAR) efforts.

The transfer is described as reflecting the US's enduring commitment to improving Sri Lanka’s overall maritime preparedness and security.

The SLN classifies these vessels as Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs).

The previous three cutters gifted to the SLN are the SLNS Samudura, SLNS Gajabahu, and SLNS Vijayabahu.