Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake was appointed as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Navy effective from 23rd December 2022. Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera formally handed over the letter of appointment to Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake at the Navy Headquarters today (03 January 2023) and expressed his best wishes to the newly appointed Deputy Chief of Staff.

Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake is a distinguished past pupil of St. Thomas' College, Matale. He joined the Sri Lanka Navy as an Officer Cadet of the 17th intake in 1987. Upon successful completion of his basic naval training from the Naval and Maritime Academy, Trincomalee, he was commissioned in the rank of Sub Lieutenant in 1989. Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake completed his Sub Lieutenant Technical Course at the Naval and Maritime Academy, Trincomalee in 1992 and received his specialization in Marine Navigation from Indian Navy in 1997. The senior officer was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral on 01st July 2021.

During his distinguished naval career, Rear Admiral Pradeep Rathnayake has commanded a number of Fast Attack Craft, Ships and Establishments in the Sri Lanka Navy. The senior officer has also served as Director Sports, Director Naval Policy and Planning, Commander Southeastern and North Central Naval Commands and Director General Operations.

Rear Admiral Pradeep Ratnayake will perform his duties as the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Navy, while serving in the appointment of Director General Operations.