New Commanders Appointed for Army and Navy

Major General Lasantha Rodrigo appointed as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army

Major General Rodrigo becomes the 25th Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, succeeding Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage, who has retired from active service. A seasoned officer, Rodrigo previously served as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Army and Commandant of the Defence Services Command and Staff College.

Rear Admiral Kanchana Banagoda appointed as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy

Rear Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, previously the Chief of Staff of the Navy, has taken command of the Sri Lanka Navy. With a distinguished career, Banagoda has commanded Fast Attack Craft, naval ships, and key naval areas, including the Eastern, Northern, and Southeastern Naval Areas.

In recognition of his service, Banagoda has been awarded the Rana Sura Padakkama for gallantry and the Uththama Sewa Padakkama (USP) for his exemplary character and dedication to duty.

Rear Admiral Kanchana Banagoda appointed as the 26th Commander of the Navy, succeeding Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera.

An alumnus of S. Thomas’ College, Bandarawela, Rear Admiral Banagoda joined the Navy in 1989 as an Officer Cadet of the 19th intake in the Executive Branch.

Additionally, General Shavendra Silva will step down from his role as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and retire from active service in the Sri Lanka Army, also effective January 1, 2025.