The Sri Lanka Navy has successfully recovered Fast Attack Craft P 4447 following a complex salvage operation, bringing to an end a multi-stage emergency response that began after the vessel encountered distress off Angulana last month.
The craft ran into distress during a routine patrol on August 15, 2026, and was subsequently located at a depth of approximately 80 feet.
The vessel was successfully brought to the surface on September 11 and later towed to the Colombo Dockyard premises.
Immediately following the incident, the Navy launched a search-and-rescue operation with the assistance of the Sri Lanka Air Force, Police and local fishermen from Angulana. The joint operation resulted in the rescue of 11 crew members.
The search-and-rescue phase concluded with the recovery of the remains of the vessel’s Second in Command on September 4.
Following the completion of the rescue operation, specialized Navy diving and salvage teams began efforts to recover the vessel despite rough sea conditions and challenging underwater conditions.
Navy marine, hull, electrical and electronic engineering teams worked together and used specialized equipment and technical expertise to raise the craft in stages.
The Navy described the successful recovery as a significant achievement, crediting the professionalism and technical expertise of its divers, engineers and other personnel involved in the operation.
The Sri Lanka Ports Authority and Colombo Dockyard PLC also provided technical support and specialized expertise during the salvage operation.
The successful recovery of P 4447 marks the completion of the Navy’s extensive salvage efforts following the August 15 incident.
