Ministry of Defence - Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Navy Moves Into State-of-the-Art Headquarters at DHQC, Akuregoda

December 09, 2025

The Sri Lanka Navy officially moved into its new Headquarters at the Defence Headquarters Complex (DHQC) in Akuregoda, today (09 December) marking a historic milestone as the Navy celebrated its 75th anniversary.

A ceremonial event was held to commemorate the occasion, with the Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) gracing as the chief guest. 

He was received by Navy Commander Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda on his arrival as per the Naval traditions and accorded a Guard of Honour .
 
The Deputy Minister hailed the new Headquarters as a major step in defence modernization and praised the Navy’s courage and professionalism, especially during Cyclone Ditwah and the Kalaoya rescue. He also paid tribute to the personnel who made the supreme sacrifice and those still missing.

The state-of-the-art HQ facility at the DHQC enhances operational efficiency and strengthens coordination reflecting the Navy’s continued evolution over the years. 

Admiral of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda and Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) were among the distinguished attendees at the ceremony. The Commanders of the Army and Air Force, along with the Inspector General of Police, senior officers of the tri-forces, and other invitees were also present.