Sri Lanka, July 2 -- President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Anura Kumara Dissanayake promoted the Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Navy, Rear Admiral Damian Fernando to the three-star rank of Vice Admiral and appointed him as the 27th Navy Commander with effect from July 1, 2026.

In a symbolic gesture of handing over command, the outgoing Navy Commander Admiral Kanchana Banagoda presented the Admiral's Sword to the newly appointed Navy Commander at the Navy Headquarters. Subsequently, Vice Admiral Fernando was accorded a 48-member guard of honour, marked by time-honoured Naval traditions. The newly appointed Navy Commander commenced his official duties amidst the chanting of blessings and religious observances from all faith...