Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, stated that Sri Lanka has requested assistance from the Indian warship currently docked in Colombo, including the use of its aircraft, to support ongoing rescue and relief operations amid the severe weather caused by Cyclonic Storm Ditwah.
He noted at a media briefing that a formal request had been submitted to the Indian High Commission in Colombo.
However, Thuyacontha added that adverse weather is also affecting Indian aircraft, which may limit flight operations under current conditions. “Due to the prevailing adverse weather, even the Indian pilots are currently unable to operate,” he said.
The Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant will provide relief materials on board to aid people affected by the adverse weather. The ship is carrying substantial supplies, including rations, some of which will be handed over to Sri Lankan authorities to support ongoing relief efforts.
INS Vikrant, India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, arrived at Colombo Harbour on November 26 following an invitation from the Sri Lanka Navy to participate in the upcoming International Fleet Review 2025 (IFR).
