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“Deterrence through Detection” UNCLASSIFIED

Conclusion

85. ‘Sovereignty means nothing if not defended’. It is always in the best of our

interest to deter opportunistic intrusions denying a situation of ‘faith accompli’ that
would be hard to undo. In this regard, being assertive in the conduct of Maritime Air
Operations is not a choice but an enduring necessity. The success of this strategy
depends upon the proper appraisal of a maritime lead for optimum utility and
management of air assets and resources in the maritime environment. From a maritime
perspective Air Power is a function which allows as a force multiplier to be
implemented in the most efficient way. This emphasizes that, Air Power in the maritime
domain is more effectively conducted by those with an exposure and a proficient
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understanding of the maritime environment .

86. This capstone document, ‘Joint Maritime Air Operations Strategy (JMAOS) in Sri

Lanka’ serves a dual purpose, providing direction in the pursuit of jointness between
SLAF and SLN and integration (organic function) of air assets in particular rotary wings
and unmanned systems onboard surface vessels. The rationale to this approach is
based on the realization of prioritizing ‘order of effect’ over ‘order of battle’ in our
unique context. We believe in enhancing our ability to detect, creating a deterrent effect
against unlawful behaviour in the island’s sea area of interest (SAOI). Credible presence
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deters, lawlessness . The desired effects in our maritime domain is well elaborated in
the ‘NAVSTRAT-2030’ strategic document.

87. The strategic guidance is aimed at optimizing utility of resources fundamentally

through a joint operational doctrine for air maritime operations informing formulation
of tactics, techniques and procedures for mobility, sustainment, training and
management to achieve desired effects. Easy said, then done; however, we are hopeful
and determined in our collective resolve.

88. Application of this strategy in unison between SLAF and SLN will result in a
paradigm shift of our defence, security outlook and architecture. Air power integration
into the maritime environment will provide impetus to how MARSEC operations,
HA/DR and SAR operations are executed in the island’s context. In the long run, we shall
have to integrate air defence and subsurface capabilities in the protection of our surface
and air units including critical infrastructure. Further, pursuit and implementation of
this strategy will add into the advances/ normative efforts in becoming a credible
maritime stakeholder in the region and beyond.

“It is not too ambitious to think of solutions governed by different ideas”
…..

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In 1923, the Balfour Committee in UK recommended all ‘Airborne Observers’ to be naval officers with
70% of Carrier Pilots being naval officers. This lead to the formation of the British fleet air arm in 1937.
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‘Broken-Window Theory’

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UNCLASSIFIED “Deterrence through Detection”