Sri Lanka and India in Talks to Establish Small Arms Manufacturing Facility in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka and India are in discussions to establish a small arms manufacturing unit in Sri Lnaka, signaling enhanced defense cooperation between the two nations and paving the way for mutual learning and collaboration in defense production.

In a recent development, Sri Lanka has revealed its ongoing discussions with India to establish a small arms manufacturing unit, marking a significant stride in the defense cooperation between the two nations. State Minister of Defence, Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, highlighted the constructive dialogue with Indian counterparts and underscored the potential for mutual learning and collaboration.

Tennakoon emphasized the need for a joint venture in the military industry, citing India's advanced defense capabilities and expertise. The move comes shortly after India's High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, expressed India's willingness to provide modern defense equipment to friendly nations like Sri Lanka.

During a media briefing, Tennakoon clarified that Sri Lanka's intent is not immediate procurement but rather exploring avenues for collaboration. He referenced the recent defense seminar where Indian defense prowess was showcased, affirming the robust military-to-military connectivity between the two nations.

The State Minister acknowledged India's remarkable growth in defense manufacturing over the past two decades and emphasized the potential for Sri Lanka to emulate this model. He highlighted Sri Lanka's existing expertise in weapons manufacturing, albeit on a smaller scale, indicating the intent to upscale through collaboration with India.

The April 10 event, attended by key military figures from both nations, witnessed a diverse delegation from the Indian defense industry engaging with Sri Lankan counterparts. India's commitment to its neighborhood-first policy, encapsulated in the SAGAR initiative (Security and Growth for All in the Region), further underscores the depth of bilateral cooperation.

The proposed small arms manufacturing unit aligns with Sri Lanka's aspirations for self-sufficiency in defense production and signifies a strategic step towards bolstering its defense capabilities. As discussions progress, both nations stand to benefit from shared expertise, technological exchange, and strengthened diplomatic ties in the realm of defense cooperation.