The final phase of the Joint Exercise, Cormorant Strike 2019, “Critical Engagement,”  was held yesterday (23rd September 2018) at Kuchchaveli where the Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Ravindra C Wijegunaratne attended as the Chief Guest. Tri Service Commanders, State Officials and Foreign Military Officials were among the dignitaries present to observe the exercise which was conducted in the afternoon hours.

This was the climax of the entire operation where the Commando Regiment, Special Forces, Regiment Special Forces(RSF) of Sri Lanka Air Force and Special Boat Squadron(SBS) of SL Navy executed their final assault capturing the simulated hostile Bases in Kuchchaveli by deploying small groups. There were participants from foreign militaries as well which added value to the exercise.

Sri Lanka Air Force executed the air operations which included Rig and Drop, CASEVAC, Air assault and extraction missions as well. Speaking on the occasion, the Commander of Sri Lanka Air Force Air Marshal Sumangala Dias stated that the conduct of such joint exercises are of vital importance to maintain the operational efficiency and the combat readiness.  Group Captain Dinesh Jayaweera officiated as the Senior Air Force Coordinator for the Exercise Cormorant Strike 2019.