The Sri Lanka Navy last week launched two newly built Wave Rider class Inshore Patrol Craft (IPCs) that were constructed at the Naval Boat Building Yard at Welisara.

The two new coastal patrol boats (P 265 and P 266) boast air-conditioned accommodation and were officially launched into service last week at the SLNS Vijaya base pier in Kalpitiya. The ceremony was held under the patronage of Commander Northwestern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Dhammika Wijewardana. The boats, the latest from the Navy’s boat building yard, are indigenous designs, and have improved efficiency, speed, and crew comfort for extended sea operations. The craft are planned to be used to strengthen efforts against a wide range of smuggling activities and illegal fishing along Sri Lanka's Northwestern coast.

(AF)