INAUGURATION OF WATER CONFIDENCE TRAINING ZONE AT COMMANDO REGIMENT TRAINING SCHOOL – UVA KUDAOYA

The newly constructed Water Confidence Training Zone at the Commando Regiment Training School, Uva Kudaoya, was ceremonially inaugurated by Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, Commander of the Army, on 19 December 2024.

The day’s proceedings commenced with a warm welcome extended to the Chief Guest by the Colonel of the Regiment, Major General KHMS Wickramaratne RSP. Following the reception, the Army Commander unveiled the opening plaque and officially declared the Water Confidence Training Zone open.

This facility was constructed under the Commander’s Special Project Scheme, following the directives of the Army Commander and the initiative of the former Colonel of the Regiment, Major General PGPS Ratnayake (Retd) RWP RSP ndc.

The inauguration included several captivating demonstrations, beginning with the Confidence Jump performed by Lt JVKA Pradeep, Sgt Wijesooriya KAPM, Cpl Adikari AMPS, Cpl Sampath ML, and L/Cpl Dissanayaka SDVKW. The event continued with a dynamic display of Commando skills, starting with the Exit Jump. The Rig and Rope demonstration, a tactical operation used by Special Operations Forces to infiltrate enemy territory while maintaining operational security, was a highlight of the event.

Additionally, the Combat Swimming demonstration showcased the ability of Commandos to swim in combat uniform while carrying personal weapons. The Water Survival Event and Head Jump demonstration added further vibrancy to the occasion.

This newly established training zone is designed to enhance not only the confidence training of Commandos but also provide facilities for Airborne and Skydiving training, ensuring the continued high standards of the Commando Regiment. The demonstrations concluded with displays of advanced skydiving techniques, including Solo Exit, Dive Exit, Barrel Roll, and Forward Roll maneuvers. A Skydiving Formation demonstration added significant value to the event, emphasizing the versatility and dominance of the Commandos across Land, Air, and Sea.

The establishment of this Water Confidence Training Zone underscores the Army's commitment to maintaining the elite status of the Commando Regiment, ensuring their preparedness for any mission.

The ceremony concluded with the signing of the visitors' book. Major General W.P.A.D.W. Nanayakkara RSP VSV USP ndu, Chief of Staff and Colonel of the Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment, Principal Staff Officers, Senior Officers, Officers and Other Ranks participated in the occasion.