The Institute of National Security Studies, the premier think tank on national security established and functioning under the Ministry of Defence, proudly launched the 6th volume of the "Defence Review" for the year 2023. The event took place in a simple yet dignified ceremony at the conference hall of the institute on the 8th floor of the Suhurupaya building in Battaramulla on 19th January 2023.
Colonel Nalin Herath RSP, the Director General and Acting Director (Research) of INSS, extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest, General Kamal Gunaratne WWV RWP RSP USP NDC PSC MPhil, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, during the launch of 'Defence Review-2023.' In his address, Colonel Nalin Herath conveyed greetings to the esteemed guests, including distinguished members of the Editorial Board such as Professor Chandra Embuldeniya, Professor Chaminda Padmakumara, and Rear Admiral Sisira Jayakody (Retd). Recognition was also given to the presence of the Peer Review Board and representatives of peer reviewers, including Air Vice Marshal Dilshan Wasage (Retd), Mrs. Chamindry Saparamadu, and Lieutenant Colonel Thushara Kathriarachchi (Retd).
Moreover, Colonel Nalin Herath acknowledged Deputy Inspector General UK Marambage, representing Major General Suresh Sallay, and Lt Colonel M A D S Mutugala, representing Colonel KVP Dhammika. Special appreciation was extended to the members of the Peer Review Board who couldn't attend the event, namely His Excellency Professor Jayanath Colombage, Major General Dharshana Udaya Kumara Hettiarrachchi, Air Vice Marshal Arosha Vithana, Professor N. Wijegoonawardana, Professor Chaminda Abeysinghe, Colonel KVP Dhammika, and Lieutenant Colonel MDJ Wickramarachchi. Additionally, Colonel Nalin Herath acknowledged the valuable contributions of the copy editor, Ms. Ruki Salgado. Subsequent to the welcome address, Ms. Charani Patabendige, Secretary to the Editorial Board, shared insights into the journey of 'Defence Review 2023.'
As the Chief Guest at the launch of 'Defence Review-2023,' Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne underscored the critical role of knowledge in national security. He emphasized that knowledge serves as the bedrock upon which the pillars of safety and freedom stand, asserting that it is not merely a source of power but an essential foundation for safeguarding our nation.
"Defence Review" serves as a double-blind, peer-reviewed annual publication focusing on scholarly articles in the field of defence and security studies. Launched in 2017, this marks the sixth volume, featuring four papers that delve into key thematic areas related to national security.
The papers cover topics such as "Defending National Security: Uniting against Corruption and Bribery with Whistle-blower Empowerment" by Ms. Charani Patabendige, "Future of Information-Technology-Enabled Systems in the Military Forces and their Impacts on National Security: A Case Study of the Sri Lanka Air Force" by Wing Commander Gayan Kahandawalaarachchi (Retd), "Socioeconomic Factors for Sustainable Peace and National Security in Sri Lanka: A Comprehensive Analysis" by Indeewari Galagama, and "The Geopolitical Importance of Sri Lanka as a Maritime Gateway in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR): Impacts and Implications" by Supasani Ariyawardana.
The audience included members of the Editorial Board, authors of Defence Review 2023, Mrs. UDH Kanchana, the Senior Assistant Librarian of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, and members of INSS. The event concluded with an official photograph and the serving of light refreshments.
