Sri Lanka Navy Turns 75: Over 2,000 Sailors and Officers Promoted

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lanka Navy celebrated its 75th anniversary today (9) with a historic gesture of recognition and advancement, granting promotions to 2,086 naval personnel across ranks.

According to the Navy, the promotions were made on the recommendation of Navy Commander Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, reflecting both merit and dedication within the force.

Among those elevated were 17 officers, who advanced to their next rank, reinforcing the Navy’s senior leadership cadre.

In addition, 2,069 senior and junior sailors received promotions to higher ranks, marking one of the largest single-day advancements in recent history.

The Sri Lanka Navy:

In 1937 the Ceylon Naval Volunteer Force (CNVF) was established.

After World War II CNVF was absorbed into the Royal Navy as Ceylon Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve (CRNVR).

After gaining independence from British rule, a nucleus of 100 officers and men were ready to form the Regular Navy.

On 9th December 1950 the Navy Act was enacted and the Royal Ceylon Navy was formed. In 1972, with the introduction of new constitution the Royal Ceylon Navy was renamed as the Sri Lanka Navy.