Senior Directing Staff (SL Army)

Brigadier Rasika Gunasena ctf-ndu psc
Senior Directing Staff (Army), National Defence College, Sri Lanka

Brigadier Rasika Gunasena is a distinguished officer in the Sri Lanka Army with over three decades of military service. Born December 30, 1974, he has been pivotal in shaping Sri Lanka’s defence strategy, military leadership, and international defence diplomacy. Currently serving as Senior Directing Staff (Army) at the National Defence College (NDC) in Sri Lanka, he is instrumental in mentoring senior military officers and policymakers in strategic defence planning and national security.

After joining the Sri Lanka Army in 1993, Brigadier Gunasena has held key command, staff, and instructional appointments, including Infantry Brigade Commander, Military Assistant to the Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, and Directing Staff at the Defence Services Command and Staff College. Being a cavalry officer, he has commanded two Armour units, demonstrating exceptional leadership in complex operational environments. His participation in UN peacekeeping missions and multinational military exercises underscores his commitment to global security and interoperability.

He has graduated from the National Defense University of USA with a Master's degree in Strategic Security Studies. He also holds two Master’s degrees in the discipline of Defence and Strategic Studies from University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka and Madras University in India. Further, he has a Master’s degree in International Relations from the University of Colombo.

Brigadier Gunasena has attended several overseas visits and training programs, including the Defence Services Staff College Course (India), Armoured Intermediate Command Course (China), and Comprehensive Security Cooperation Course (Hawai, USA).

A respected strategist and mentor, Brigadier Gunasena continues to shape the future of Sri Lanka’s defence policy, fostering strong international military partnerships and advancing national security imperatives.