USS Tulsa Returns to Colombo for Scheduled Port Visit

USS Tulsa (LCS 16), an Independence-variant littoral combat ship, arrived at the Port of Colombo on October 7, receiving a warm welcome from Sri Lanka as the ship returns for its second visit in two years. The port call underscores the enduring U.S.–Sri Lanka maritime partnership and our shared commitment to maintaining peace, security, and prosperity across the Indian Ocean. 

“Every American ship that visits Sri Lanka is an opportunity to deepen the friendship between our countries and the bonds between our sailors,” said U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Eric Meyer. “We are grateful for the warm welcome Sri Lanka continues to extend to our sailors. These visits build the trust and relationships that make our partnership stronger and help our countries work together when it matters most.” 

USS Tulsa last visited Colombo in August 2025. This goodwill visit provides an opportunity to strengthen ties between U.S. and Sri Lankan sailors while the ship refuels and resupplies before continuing its mission in the Indo-Pacific. The visit builds on longstanding cooperation between the U.S. and Sri Lankan navies, including ship visits, professional exchanges, training, and exercises such as Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT), which strengthen interoperability and the ability of our forces to work together. 

Built for speed and versatility, the USS Tulsa can operate in both shallow waters and the open ocean, which reflects America’s cutting-edge maritime capability and technological leadership.