Wednesday Feb 25, 2026
Wednesday Feb 25, 2026
Monday, 23 February 2026 02:56 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
US Navy delegation with Colombo Dockyard officials
A high-level delegation from the United States Navy, led by Commander of the US Pacific Fleet Admiral Stephen Koehler visited Colombo Dockyard PLC last week to explore potential collaboration and strengthen maritime engagement in the Indian Ocean region.
The visiting delegation included US Embassy Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Matthew House, Captain Thomas Ogden (Executive Assistant), Fleet Master Chief Donald Davis (Senior Enlisted Leader), Dustin Bickel (Regional Indo-Pacific Strategy Coordinator), and Lieutenant Commander Joe Cassidy.
During the visit, the delegation held discussions with the top management of Colombo Dockyard, including Managing Director/CEO Thimira S. Godakumbura, General Manager (Ship Repair Business) S.H.P.K. Ranatunga, General Manager (Production) K.N.G.W. Kariyawasam, Head of Shipbuilding Marketing Prince Lye, Assistant General Manager (Ship Repair Business) Darshana Chandrasekera, Assistant Business Manager (Ship Repair Marketing) Amila Rukshan and Assistant Business Manager (Estimating and Ship Repair Planning) Avantha Gunathilake.
The discussions focused on Colombo’s strategic maritime position within the Indian Ocean and the growing opportunities for maintenance and repair services for the US Navy fleet. Both parties highlighted the importance of strengthening regional maritime cooperation and enhancing logistical support capabilities. Following the discussions, the delegation visited the shipyard facilities.
The visit marks an important step toward fostering stronger ties between Colombo Dockyard and the United States Navy, potentially paving the way for future collaboration in ship repair and maritime support services in the region.
Colombo Dockyard PLC continues to position Sri Lanka as a key maritime hub in South Asia, leveraging its strategic location and advanced infrastructure to serve global naval and commercial clients.
US Pacific Fleet Commander Admiral Stephen Koehler (right) with Colombo Dockyard Managing Director/CEO Thimira S. Godakumbura (centre) and General Manager – Ship Repair Business S.H.P.K Ranatunga
