Commander of U.S. Pacific Fleet Meets Defence Secretary
February 19, 2026The Commander of the United States Pacific Fleet, Admiral Stephen T. Koehler, met with the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), at the Ministry of Defence today (19 February).
During the cordial discussion, attention was drawn to the evolving security landscape in the Indian Ocean Region, with both sides acknowledging the need for closer cooperation to address emerging maritime challenges. Both parties emphasized enhancing joint efforts in maritime domain awareness, improving information sharing, and strengthening coordination to respond to natural disasters and humanitarian contingencies.
The U.S. delegation reaffirmed its continued support to Sri Lanka in countering transnational threats, including illicit trafficking and other non-traditional security concerns. Both sides also reviewed the engagement between the U.S. and Sri Lankan armed forces through training exchanges and joint activities.
The Defence Secretary expressed his sincere appreciation to the Government of the United States for its longstanding assistance and generous donations to Sri Lanka. He specifically acknowledged the provision of TH-57 Sea Ranger 10 helicopters, the B-Type Reliance Class 210-foot Cutter and humanitarian assistance during the Ditwah cyclone. Moreover, he expressed his gratitude for the continued support extended through various disaster relief and humanitarian assistance initiatives to the government of Sri Lanka.
Officials from the United States Embassy in Sri Lanka, including the Defence Attaché, Lieutenant Colonel Matthew House, were also present at the discussion.
