Two US Naval ships arrive at Hambantota

Two US Naval ships, USNS Millinocket and USS Spruance, arrived at the Hambantota port today to participate in the annual naval exercise ‘Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training Exercise (CARAT)-2019’.

Upon their arrival, the two ships were welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in accordance with naval traditions.

Director Naval Operations Commodore Sanjeewa Dias and Naval Advisor to the US embassy in Sri Lanka Lieutenant Commander Brian Padge were also present on this occasion.

USNS Millinocket has a displacement of 2362 tons while USS Spruance has a displacement capacity of 9580 tons.

The exercise CARAT-2019 will be conducted in two phases as inshore and offshore exercises and SLNS Sayurala and SLNS Samudura of Sri Lanka Navy are scheduled to be joined in the exercise.

“The main objective of the exercise is to strengthen the maritime security and cooperation. It is expected to enhance the bilateral cooperation through small boat handling, diving exercises, anti-terrorist operations, community welfare activities, sports and social services,” a statement issued by the Sri Lanka Navy said.