President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has directed officials to merge separate research and development units operated by the Sri Lanka Army, Navy, and Air Force into a unified national institution to improve efficiency and strengthen national security.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has instructed defence officials to establish a centralized research and development centre by consolidating the separate R&D operations currently managed by Sri Lanka's three armed services. The directive emerged during pre-Budget 2027 discussions on defence sector priorities held at the Presidential Secretariat, where the President argued that a unified institution would enable the defence sector to achieve its objectives with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

The consolidation initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen national security capabilities. Officials at the meeting emphasized the importance of rapid adoption of modern and advanced technologies across the defence sector to address emerging global security challenges. The discussions reflected recognition that technological modernization is essential for contemporary defence operations.

Beyond structural reorganization, the defence sector plans to enhance personnel capabilities through expanded overseas training opportunities for armed forces members. This initiative aims to equip military personnel with expertise in emerging and evolving fields of defence and security.

The meeting also covered operational healthcare initiatives, including discussions on the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University Hospital and planned operations at Neville Fernando Hospital. Officials reviewed funding allocations necessary for these medical facilities and outlined future development plans. Additionally, attention was given to a programme designed to promote the involvement of defence personnel in construction sector activities.