Sri Lanka’s vast maritime territory is both an economic lifeline and a security challenge. With an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) nearly eight times its landmass, the island nation faces a complex web of threats—from illegal fishing to cyberattacks—demanding a tech-driven overhaul of its maritime security strategy. The country’s strategic position along key shipping lanes makes it a critical player in the Indian Ocean, but this advantage comes with vulnerabilities that technology is now helping to address.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and AI-driven analytics are stepping into the spotlight as Sri Lanka’s first line of defence. These tools plug critical gaps in maritime surveillance, ensuring that illegal activities—whether fishing, trafficking, or smuggling—don’t slip under the radar. The Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) has already seized significant quantities of drugs and intercepted human trafficking operations, but the scale of the challenge demands more. AI-powered systems can analyse vast amounts of data in real time, identifying patterns and anomalies that human operators might miss. This isn’t just about detection; it’s about turning data into actionable intelligence, enabling faster, more coordinated responses.
Sri Lanka’s EEZ remains under-monitored and under-utilised, but smart technology offers a pathway to sustainable management and stronger ocean governance. The December 2023 moratorium on foreign research vessels underscores the need for robust maritime governance. Strategic surveillance, regional cooperation, and investment in maritime scientific research are essential to transforming the EEZ into a pillar of national economic and environmental security. The integration of emerging technologies—such as automated radar, data analytics, and Data Fusion Centres (DFCs)—enhances maritime domain awareness (MDA), allowing Sri Lanka to monitor its waters with greater accuracy and coordination.
Cyber threats to ports and logistics are no longer distant possibilities but immediate national security challenges. The 2023 cyberattack on DP World, which disrupted cargo operations and caused substantial economic losses, serves as a stark warning. Sri Lanka’s maritime infrastructure must build digital resilience to protect against ransomware, data breaches, and system disruptions. This requires not only advanced cybersecurity measures but also trained human capital and cohesive inter-agency coordination.
The SLN’s recent seizures of drugs and human trafficking operations highlight the persistent threat posed by transnational criminal activities. These incidents underscore the need for a multi-layered approach to maritime security, combining traditional naval capabilities with cutting-edge technology. The integration of AI, UAVs, and data analytics into maritime operations is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a strategic necessity.
Long-term maritime resilience will depend not only on machines and systems but on trained human capital and cohesive inter-agency coordination. The Pathfinder Institute’s report emphasises the importance of building a skilled workforce capable of operating and maintaining these advanced technologies. This includes fostering collaboration between government agencies, private sector partners, and international allies to ensure a unified and effective response to maritime threats.
Sri Lanka’s maritime security strategy is evolving, and technology is at the heart of this transformation. From detecting illegal fishing to countering cyber threats, the integration of AI, UAVs, and data analytics is reshaping how the country protects its waters and economic interests. This is more than a technological upgrade—it’s a strategic shift that will define Sri Lanka’s maritime future.