US Pacific Fleet commander visits Colombo Dockyard
The US Navy is looking for strategic shiprepair capacity for its Pacific Fleet (Source: Colombo Dockyard PLC)
A delegation led by Admiral Stephen Koehler, commander of the United States Pacific Fleet, visited Colombo Dockyard PLC on February 20th, 2026 to discuss potential maintenance collaboration in the Indian Ocean region.
The delegation met senior management including Thimira S. Godakumbura, managing director and CEO, and executives from the Ship Repair Business and Production departments. Discussions focused on Colombo’s strategic position and opportunities to support US Navy vessels with maintenance and repair services.
The parties also reviewed yard facilities during a site tour. Colombo Dockyard highlighted its infrastructure and experience serving naval and commercial clients across South Asia. The visit signals interest in strengthening logistic support and regional maritime cooperation as US naval activity in the Indian Ocean continues. Further engagement could position Colombo Dockyard to undertake future shiprepair and support assignments for US-flagged vessels operating in the region.
