Modernising Sri Lanka’s Armed Forces: Preparing for future security challenges

Pathfinder National Security Brief - 02

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A nuanced synthesis of threat perception, demographic trends, geophysical constraints, strategic doctrine, and external alignments invariably shapes the architecture of any credible military force. As we face, rapid technological advancements, evolving geopolitical landscapes, and multifaceted array of conventional and asymmetric threats, the Pathfinder Foundation suggests that a clear and proactive military strategy is essential for addressing future security challenges.

Such a strategy not only augments operational readiness but also enhances the flexibility of the Armed Forces to mitigate unforeseen contingencies that may compromise sovereignty or destabilise national cohesion. It also cultivates necessary linkage between civilian decision-makers and military leadership, helping to meet state security objectives and reinforce long-term resilience.

Threat perception

Sri Lanka’s threat perception is complex and multifaceted, encompassing both traditional and nontraditional security challenges. While the country has made significant strides in counter-terrorism since the end of the conflict in 2009 and the Easter Sunday attacks in 2019, COVID pandemic in 2020, new and evolving threats continue to shape its security landscape. The contours of future conflict are increasingly shaped by threats that challenge traditional military classifications. Terrorism, proliferation of cyber-attacks, irregular warfare, transnational criminal activities, natural disasters and rising maritime disputes all require a fundamental change in military strategy. Additionally, cross-border terrorism, piracy, illicit maritime trafficking, illegal fishing, and strategic rivalries across key sea lanes all need an adapted security framework. Moreover, geopolitical rivalries in the Indian Ocean further complicate its security landscape.

Spending and reforms