Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Service assumes operations of RV Samudrika

Sri Lanka Navy officially took over the operations of Sri Lanka’s only national marine research platform RV Samudrika at a function held at Naval Headquarters today (28th Feb).

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in this regard was signed between Sri Lanka Navy and National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA). The Commander of Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Piyal De Silva and Chairman of NARA Eng. EASK Edirisinghe officially endorsed their consent by signing the agreement representing the two institutions.

Accordingly, Sri Lanka Navy Hydrographic Service (SLNHS) will work in collaboration with NARA for the smooth operations of the Research Vessel meeting the national survey demand.

The vessel is equipped with state of the art survey equipment and technology including, Multibeam Echo Sounder system, Single Beam Echo Sounder systems, Sub-bottom Profiler, Side Scan Sonar, ADCP systems, DGPS system, etc. which could cater for hydrographic surveys, oceanographic surveys and scientific researches.

“This is a significant milestone where collaborative approach of this nature would enhance maritime research and survey activities which help understand country’s maritime resources and best use of them for economic prosperity in the long run” said Chief Hydrographer of the Navy Rear Admiral Sisira Jayakody witnessing the event.

Director Generals of NHQ, Deputy Director General NARA, Directors of SLNHS and Heads of Departments of NARA were present at the event.