World · Sri Lanka Bureau
US and Sri Lanka bolster nuclear smuggling detection capabilities
The United States and Sri Lanka have partnered to strengthen efforts to detect and prevent nuclear smuggling through a specialized training initiative. A five-day workshop brought together US nuclear security experts and Sri Lankan Navy personnel to develop enhanced detection protocols.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The U.S. Embassy in Colombo, working through the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD), conducted an intensive training programme with the Sri Lanka Navy from September 21–25 aimed at enhancing the nation's capacity to identify and combat nuclear smuggling activities.
The workshop brought together American nuclear security specialists and Sri Lankan naval officers to collaborate on strengthening detection and deterrence measures. Participants focused on developing standardized operating procedures and best practices that align with international nuclear security frameworks, enabling more effective identification of smuggling attempts at ports and maritime boundaries.
The initiative reflects deepening bilateral cooperation on nuclear security matters and underscores the strategic importance of Sri Lanka's maritime domain in regional security. As a shipping hub with significant port activity, Sri Lanka's enhanced detection capabilities are viewed as critical to preventing illicit nuclear material trafficking across the Indian Ocean region.
The training programme is part of broader US efforts to support nuclear nonproliferation objectives in South and Southeast Asia. The partnership provides Sri Lankan authorities with access to advanced detection technologies and international expertise, strengthening the country's institutional capacity to address emerging nuclear security threats.