Navy spokesperson Capt. Gayan Wickramasinghe noted that discussions are still underway at higher levels regarding the Red Sea deployment, but the Sri Lanka Navy is ready. "We are now on standby to send our deployment to the Red Sea at any time," he said.

On January 3, during an event, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that the government would deploy a Navy vessel to the Red Sea to safeguard shipping lanes.

He said that the disruption of these lanes would lead to increased freight charges and cargo costs, affecting import prices in the country. President Wickremesinghe said that the government is committed to contributing to stability in the region.

The President had earlier acknowledged that deploying a vessel would cost the government Rs. 250 million every fortnight.

Following the announcement, the Navy conducted a feasibility study on the deployment. The Navy earlier said that logistical supplies and a robust weapon outfit need to be arranged before the deployment.