US Warship Linked to Iran Blockade Mission Anchors in Colombo Port

COLOMBO (News 1st); The United States' Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship USS Canberra (LCS 30) arrived at the Port of Colombo on Friday (12).

In April 2026, USS Canberra (LCS 30) was positioned in the Arabian Sea during a maritime blockade against ships entering or exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas. This is according to the US Central Command's official website.

The visit of the USS Canberra represents the fourth U.S. Navy littoral combat ship to call on Colombo in recent years, following the USS Tulsa, USS Charleston, and USS Santa Barbara.

The continued presence of these advanced vessels highlights the 'critical importance of continued engagement among maritime partners dedicated to security, cooperation, and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region', said the US Embassy in Colombo.

Commanded by Cmdr. James McLaughlin, the USS Canberra is making a brief logistical stop in Colombo to refuel and replenish supplies before continuing its deployment.

Commissioned in July 2023, the USS Canberra is part of the U.S. Navy’s Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship fleet, designed for high-speed, agile operations in near-shore environments.

The vessel is equipped to support a wide range of missions, including maritime security, forward presence, sea control, and deterrence operations.