During 2009, Colombo had already spent a record breaking $1.6 billion for defence, up from $1.5 billion in the previous year, as the war against the LTTE began to escalate. The Government now wants a further $300 million to spend for the rest of the year, alleging that they need to further strengthen their security forces.
Despite claiming to have totally defeated the LTTE, the Sri Lankan Government is still aiming to spend more on its military. The extra budget will allow the Government to fund increased fuel and medical supplies for the armed forces, as well as providing compensation for the dead and injured soldiers.
This comes amidst news that the Sri Lankan Army is looking to recruit and expand even more. In June, Major General Sarath Fonsenka declared that he wanted the army to increase by 50%, at a time when it already had 200,000 troops.
The increase in spending was approved by Parliament, as the country’s “State of Emergency” was once again extended, 5 months after the war has ended. Documents submitted to Parliament stated that "it is important to acquire vehicles and hire heavy equipment for troop transport and to construct new camps". The army has been planning to establish major bases at Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu, whilst colonising the North & East with families of the soldiers based there.
Many parts of the island remain heavily fortified.
