USS Santa Barbara From 7th Fleet To Reach Colombo

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Independence-variant littoral combat ship, USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32), will make a call at the Port of Colombo on August 16.

This marks the vessel’s first visit to Sri Lanka, highlighting the growing strength of the U.S.–Sri Lanka partnership and their shared commitment to a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

The USS Santa Barbara is part of the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet, the largest forward-deployed fleet in the world, responsible for operations in the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans.

The ship’s brief stop in Colombo is intended for refueling and resupplying before continuing its mission.

U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung described the visit as a “powerful symbol” of bilateral cooperation. “This visit reflects our shared commitment to maritime security, regional stability, and a free and open Indo-Pacific,” she said. “We’re proud to stand alongside Sri Lanka as we work together to promote peace and prosperity across the region.”

The USS Santa Barbara is an Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship designed to operate in near-shore environments and support forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions. Christened on October 16, 2021, it is currently operating as part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7. The Santa Barbara conducts regular Indo-Pacific patrols to deter aggression, strengthen alliances and partnerships, and advance future warfighting capabilities.