Rear Admiral Ravindra Tissera has been appointed as the Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Navy, effective from July 01, 2026.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake as the Commander – in – Chief of the Armed Forces made the appointment.

The Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando formally handed over the letter of appointment to Rear Admiral Ravindra Tissera at the Navy Headquarters yesterday (07).

Rear Admiral Ravindra Tissera is a product of St. Peter’s College, Colombo. He joined the Executive branch of the Sri Lanka Navy as an Officer Cadet of the 10th Intake of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence Academy (KDA) in 1992. On completion of basic training, he was commissioned as an Acting Sub Lieutenant in 1994 and went on to successfully complete his Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course at the Naval and Maritime Academy in 1999. He specialized in Navigation with the Indian Navy in 2002.

Further, the officer completed his Naval Command and Staff Course in China and the National Defence and Strategic Studies Course at the National Defence College, Sri Lanka. He successfully completed Master of Maritime Policy Degree Programme at University of Wollongong, Australia. Climbing steadily through the ranks during his stellar career, he was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral in January 2024.

Throughout his decorated career, Rear Admiral Tissera has held numerous key appointments in the Sri Lanka Navy. He has commanded Fast Attack Craft as well as various ships and establishments of the Sri Lanka Navy. Furthermore, he has served in pivotal roles including Commanding Officer of the Special Boat Squadron (SBS), Director Naval Personnel, Director General Personnel and Commander Eastern Naval Area. Prior to his elevation as the Chief of Staff, the senior officer served as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Navy.

In addition to his naval duties, Rear Admiral Ravindra Tissera has been a versatile sportsman, representing the Navy in rugby, basketball, and athletics.

Demonstrating exceptional gallantry on the front lines, Rear Admiral Tissera actively contributed to the humanitarian operations. In recognition of his battlefield bravery against the enemy, he has been decorated with the Rana Sura Padakkama (RSP) an impressive nine times. Additionally, he has been awarded the Uttama Seva Padakkama (USP) in recognition of his valuable service, unblemished character, and steadfast devotion to duty, the Navy said in a statement.