A 20-member delegation from Sri Lanka's Defence Services Command and Staff College spent two weeks in Turkey undertaking professional military training and strategic studies as part of an international collaboration initiative.
A delegation of 20 military officers from Sri Lanka's Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) has completed an international study programme in Turkey from late July through early August. Led by Air Commodore Nipuna Thanippuliarachchi, the group participated in the International Collaboration Study Package (DDICSP) – 2026, which formed part of the overseas training component for middle-grade officers from the three service branches. The initiative was organized by Turkish authorities in coordination with Sri Lanka's Embassy in Ankara.
During the two-week visit, the officers toured military headquarters, defence educational institutions and defence manufacturing facilities across Istanbul and Ankara. The programme exposed participants to Turkey's defence capabilities, military education systems and technological developments. The delegation also visited historically significant sites including Anıtkabir, Topkapı Palace and the Gallipoli battlefield to develop understanding of Turkey's military heritage and cultural background.
On August 4, the delegation visited Sri Lanka's Embassy in Ankara, where Ambassador Niluka Kadurugamuwa briefed the officers on expanding bilateral relations between the two countries. The Ambassador highlighted developments in political engagement, defence cooperation, trade, investment, tourism and educational exchanges. During subsequent discussions, the officers exchanged perspectives on regional security issues and defence diplomacy opportunities. The Ambassador later hosted an official dinner for the delegation.
Official sources characterize the programme as representing an important development in defence relations between the two nations, anticipated to enhance professional knowledge among Sri Lanka's future military leaders while creating opportunities for deeper defence cooperation, military education exchanges and strategic dialogue.
