Defence Services Command and Staff College

STUDY VISITS TO KEY ECONOMIC AND MARITIME HUBS IN WESTERN NAVAL COMMAND_2026

In accordance with the academic calendar of Course No. 20, the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) conducted a series of Study Visits to institutions of national, strategic and economic significance on 30 March 2026. The delegation, comprising the Commandant, Chief Instructors of the Army, Navy and members of the faculty, visited the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Port City Colombo, the Port of Colombo, and the Western Naval Command and Fleet.

The programme commenced with a visit to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, where participants received comprehensive briefings on the Bank’s pivotal role in ensuring economic and financial stability. The session covered key aspects of monetary policy, banking operations, and regulatory frameworks, providing valuable insights into mechanisms that sustain price stability and financial system resilience. To mark the occasion, the Commandant of DSCSC, Major General KW Jayaweera USP psc, presented a memento to the Governor, Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, in appreciation of the cooperation and professional engagement extended to the delegation.

The visit to Port City Colombo enabled participants to gain a clear understanding of the progress and strategic significance of this flagship national development project. The briefings highlighted its vision, development trajectory, and role in enhancing investment opportunities and regional connectivity. At the conclusion of the visit, Chief Instructor – Navy Wing, Commodore DMNP Dissanayake RSP & Bar, USP, ndu, psc, presented a memento to Mr. Shaheen Jurangpathy, Manager Public Relations and Communications of Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd, in appreciation of the arrangements and coordination.

At the Port of Colombo, participants were exposed to port operations and ongoing infrastructure developments, gaining firsthand knowledge of the functioning of a key maritime hub. Captain Nirmal Silva, Harbour Master of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, delivered a detailed briefing on harbour management, safety procedures, and operational coordination. In recognition of his contribution, Chief Instructor – Army Wing, Brigadier RWRSSDDS Senarath psc IG, presented a token of appreciation.

The final segment of the programme was conducted at the Western Naval Command, where the delegation received an overview of its operational role and strategic importance in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s maritime domain. Participants were also afforded the opportunity to visit naval assets, including SLNS Vijayabahu and SLNS Sayura, along with other ships and craft. During the visit, Chief Instructor – Navy Wing, Commodore DMNP Dissanayake RSP & Bar, USP, ndu, psc, presented a memento to the Senior Officer Present Afloat, Captain RP Thilakasinghe RSP & Bar, USP.

Subsequently, Chief Instructor – Army Wing, Brigadier RWRSSDDS Senarath psc IG, presented a memento to the Deputy Area Commander, Commodore IWMA Jayawardena RSP & Bar, USP, ndc, psc, at the Western Naval Command Headquarters. The programme concluded with a luncheon at the Command Wardroom, which provided an opportunity for professional interaction and strengthening of institutional relationships.

The series of visits proved to be highly beneficial and professionally enriching for the Course Participants. The exposure gained enhanced their understanding of the interrelationship between maritime security, economic stability, and national development, thereby contributing to their development as future military leaders in command and staff appointments.

WESTERN NAVAL COMMAND_2026