INSS Hosts Round Table Discussion on Strengthening Maritime Critical Infrastructure against Emerging Drone Threats

The Institute of National Security Studies (INSS), the premier national security think tank under the Ministry of Defence, successfully conducted a Round Table Discussion on "Fortifying Critical Infrastructure: Assessing Vulnerabilities and Counter Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Strategies in Sri Lanka's Maritime Security Architecture" on 15 July 2026 at the INSS Conference Hall. The session was delivered by Air Vice Marshal Dilshan Wasage (Retd.), Director Security of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. The event brought together senior officers from the Sri Lanka Tri-Forces, representatives from BRAC, and members of the INSS research staff to examine emerging security challenges affecting Sri Lanka's maritime domain and critical national infrastructure. The Director General of INSS, Major General Ranjan Wijedasa (Retd.), welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of proactive research and inter-agency collaboration in addressing evolving national security threats. During the discussion, Air vice Marshal Wasage highlighted the strategic importance of Sri Lanka's ports and maritime infrastructure to national security and economic prosperity. He provided a comprehensive overview of port operations, existing security mechanisms, and the increasing risks posed by Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), particularly to port facilities, naval installations, and coastal logistics networks. An engaging question and answer session enabled participants to exchange perspectives on strengthening national preparedness and safeguarding critical infrastructure through enhanced coordination, technological advancement, and policy development. The event concluded with final remarks and a vote of thanks delivered by Wing Commander DMK Gamage, Military Research Officer at the Institute of National Security Studies (INSS).