The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has issued an urgent warning to the public after a training aircraft faced serious danger from kite strings near Ratmalana Airport today.

A Y‑12 aircraft engaged in training flights was forced to land after kite strings became entangled in its systems. 

According to SLAF, subsequent inspection revealed large amounts of string caught in the left wheel, left engine area, and several other parts, highlighting the severe risk posed to aviation safety.

Issuing a statement, SLAF stressed that kite flying near airports and runways is a direct obstruction to aircraft operations and has been identified globally as a cause of aviation accidents.

In Sri Lanka, the risk has escalated around runways in Katunayake, Ratmalana, Hingurakgoda, China Bay, Anuradhapura, Palali, Katukurunda, Koggala, Vavuniya, Weerawila, and Mattala.

SLAF warned that if kite strings or fragments enter an aircraft’s engine or operating systems, the entire aircraft could face catastrophic failure, with high potential for loss of life and property.

To ensure aviation safety and protect passenger lives, residents living near airports and runways have been strongly urged to refrain from flying kites in such zones. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) today (11) marked a major milestone in its fighter fleet modernization programme with the successful first test flight of its upgraded Kfir C12 aircraft, known within the service as the “Lion Cub.” 

Conducted at SLAF Base Katunayake, the sortie followed extensive ground validation and system integration, transitioning the aircraft from ground testing to airborne evaluation under the ongoing upgrade framework. 

According to the SLAF, the test flight was witnessed by the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), and the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, together with senior SLAF officers and representatives associated with the upgrade programme.

The Kfir is operated by No. 10 Fighter Squadron based at SLAF Base Katunayake. Since entering service in 1996, the aircraft has remained a key component of Sri Lanka’s air defence capability, providing a reliable platform for a wide range of operational requirements.

The Kfir fleet played a notable role during the humanitarian operations that concluded in 2009, contributing significantly to air operations undertaken during that period. Its performance under demanding operational conditions established the aircraft as one of the most effective combat platforms in the SLAF inventory.

The current modernization programme is being carried out in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), with active participation from SLAF technical personnel who have worked closely alongside IAI specialists throughout the upgrade process. Their involvement has been instrumental in supporting aircraft integration, testing, technical validation and the long-term sustainment of the fleet.

The upgrading programme covers the modernization of four Kfir C2/C7 aircraft and one TC2 trainer aircraft to the advanced Kfir C12 standard. Beyond enhancing combat capabilities, the project is expected to significantly extend the operational life of the SLAF’s active Kfir fleet through extensive structural refurbishment, renewed maintenance capabilities and advanced systems integration.

The modernization includes comprehensive avionics and mission systems upgrades centred around a modern glass cockpit configuration. The enhancements provide improved situational awareness, navigation and communication capabilities, precision weapon employment, mission planning and debriefing functions. These improvements are designed to reduce pilot workload, increase mission effectiveness and provide a foundation for future operational growth.

The upgraded Kfir C12 will offer enhanced air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities, transforming the fleet into a versatile multirole combat platform capable of undertaking a broader range of missions with greater effectiveness in response to evolving operational requirements.

According to the SLAF, the successful first flight marks an important milestone in the Kfir modernization programme. The Kfir was originally developed and manufactured in Israel during the 1970s, the Kfir has shown remarkable longevity and adaptability. The latest upgrades significantly enhance the aircraft’s capabilities, mission effectiveness and operational lifespan, ensuring its continued relevance in modern air operations.

Upon completion of the modernization programme, the upgraded Kfir fleet is expected to strengthen Sri Lanka’s ability to safeguard its airspace, maritime approaches and territorial boundaries, while enhancing air defence readiness. (Newswire)

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Ten (10) TH-57 ‘Sea Ranger’ multi-role helicopters granted by the Government of the United States of America to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) have arrived in Sri Lanka by sea. 

According to the SLAF, the arrival of these aircraft marks a significant milestone in the longstanding defence cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United States and represents a valuable contribution towards enhancing the operational and training capabilities of the Sri Lanka Air Force.

The SLAF further said that the helicopters are currently undergoing configurations and technical preparations at the SLAF Base in Ratmalana. 

Following the completion of requisite inspections, acceptance procedures and test flights, the aircraft will be inducted into service and deployed for operational duties.

The TH-57 fleet is expected to significantly strengthen Sri Lanka Air Force’s aviation training capacity while enhancing the ability to support a broad spectrum of national requirements. 

The aircraft will primarily be employed for pilot training, humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) operations, search and rescue (SAR) missions and other public service commitments undertaken by the Sri Lanka Air Force. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has issued a public notice reminding both local and foreign individuals that flying drones without proper authorization is prohibited within the country.

Issuing a statement, the SLAF noted that legal action has previously been taken against persons who operated drones in high‑security zones without approval.

The SLAF further said that anyone intending to fly drones must obtain the necessary permits in line with existing laws and regulations. 

The announcement aims to safeguard national security while preventing legal complications and difficulties for drone operators, it added. (Newswire)

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The 11th Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Aviation Contingent assigned to the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) departed Sri Lanka today (21 Jan).

According to the SLAF, the Contingent consists of 22 officers, including two lady officers and 88 airmen, including five airwomen, and is commanded by Group Captain Asiri Pathirage. The personnel represent the full range of professional capabilities required to carry out assigned duties under the UN mandate.

Meanwhile, the main element of the 10th Sri Lanka Air Force Aviation Contingent, comprising 94 personnel, returned to Sri Lanka early today after completing a one-year deployment in the Central African Republic, which commenced on 6 December 2024.

During its deployment, the 10th Contingent carried out extensive air operations in support of peacekeeping and humanitarian tasks, recording over 1,500 flying hours. The Contingent also conducted a number of medical evacuation missions, including night operations, providing timely assistance to UN personnel and civilians under demanding conditions. In recognition of its service, the Contingent received commendation from the Force Commander of the Mission, with individual commendations awarded to senior pilots for their performance and leadership.

In addition to operational duties, the deployment generated significant revenue for the country through flight operations, personnel salaries and reimbursement for contingent-owned equipment. 

Director General Planning, Air Vice Marshal Deshapriya Silva, Director Foreign Affairs, Group Captain Chandana Ratanayake, along with senior SLAF officials, were present at Bandaranaike International Airport to welcome the returning members of the 10th Contingent. They also extended their best wishes to the departing 11th Contingent and expressed confidence in the successful execution of their mission in the Central African Republic. (Newswire)

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The United States Government has transferred ten operational TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters, a military variant of the renowned Bell 206B-3 Jet Ranger, manufactured by Bell Helicopter Textron USA,  to Sri Lanka.

According to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington D.C., these highly capable helicopters are currently undergoing final preparations for shipment and are slated to embark on their journey to Sri Lanka at the beginning of February.

The transfer addresses a critical and long-standing operational requirement for the Sri Lankan Air Force (SLAF), bolstering its fleet with versatile aircraft essential for a wide array of general-purpose missions. 

The TH-57 Sea Ranger has a distinguished service history with the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard since 1968, proving its reliability and adaptability. Globally, this helicopter model is highly valued for diverse roles including advanced pilot training, passenger transport, disaster response, maritime search and rescue, and various humanitarian operations. The SLAF itself has a rich history of operating Bell 206 Jet Rangers since 1969, making these new additions a natural and highly complementary fit for their existing infrastructure and expertise.

The profound strategic importance of this donation was underscored by Dr. Andrew Byers, Deputy Assistant Director of War, who remarked: “The transfer of these ten TH-57 helicopters marks another important step in U.S.-Sri Lanka defense relations—much like the December transfer of a former U.S. Coast Guard cutter as well as the disaster relief provided by U.S. Department of War service members and aircraft to the people of Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. We look forward to working with the Sri Lankan Air Force as they begin to field this new capability.”

The Sri Lankan Embassy noted that these sentiments highlight the enduring and strengthening partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka in enhancing regional security, disaster preparedness, and humanitarian assistance efforts.

The integration of the helicopters into the SLAF fleet is anticipated to significantly elevate the nation’s capacity for rapid response, humanitarian aid delivery, and overall air domain effectiveness.

The Sri Lankan Embassy added that Sri Lanka is thankful to the United States for consistently assisting the country at times of need. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Aviation Unit serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) was redeployed from Bria to Obo last week (31 Dec) to carry out urgent operational duties in the high-risk Bambouti area of Sector East.

According to the SLAF, this deployment was necessitated by urgent troops resupply and troop insertion tasks in the high-threat and volatile operational area of Bambouti in Sector East, assessed as one of the most challenging within the MINUSCA Area of Responsibility.

In support of this task, the SLAF-operated Mi-17 helicopter UNO 325P was assigned to conduct an essential troops’ resupply mission to Bambouti on the same day of deployment at Obo. 

Given the prevailing threat environment, the operation was executed with coordinated close air support provided by the Tunisian Aviation Unit’s Black Hawk helicopter UNO 316P, ensuring enhanced security throughout the mission profile.

Upon landing at Bambouti and completing the offloading of approximately 1800 kg of troop resupply, the security situation deteriorated rapidly as armed hostile elements were observed advancing toward the helicopter, posing an immediate threat to the aircraft, aircrew, and UN personnel on the ground. 

At the time, fourteen (14) Central African Armed Forces (FACA) soldiers were under the protection of the MINUSCA Temporary Operating Base (TOB) in Bambouti. Through a timely and well-coordinated response, the aircrew ensured the protection and extraction of these fourteen personnel from Bambouti, demonstrating exceptional situational awareness and decisive leadership under pressure.

The SLAF aircrew executed a rapid take-off, thereby averting a potential loss of life. The aircraft subsequently departed the area safely and returned to Obo without sustaining any damage or casualties.

The mission was conducted by an experienced SLAF aircrew led by Wing Commander Nuran Perera as Captain Pilot with Flight Lieutenant Shafrid Iqbal as Co-Pilot, Flight Lieutenant Praveen Rathnayake as Flight Engineer, Flight Sergeant Senevirathne WCN as Loadmaster and Sergeant Bandarra MGSK together with Corporal Weerasinghe KPS serving as Air Gunners. (Newswire)

SLAF Mi-17 crew bravely delivers vital supplies and rescues UN personnel in high-threat Bambouti. Courage, skill and precision above the clouds.
More details: https://t.co/cIChYYJFEl#SLAF #UN #MINUSCA #Airdrops #airliftoperations #srilankaairforce #abovetheclouds pic.twitter.com/wfQXG8Bl1k

— Sri Lanka Air Force (@airforcelk) January 1, 2026

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The Sri Lanka Aviation Unit, operating under the United Nations mandate in the Central African Republic (CAR), successfully carried out a critical Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) mission recently (15 Dec), under extremely hostile and volatile conditions.

The mission was launched in response to an urgent request for the evacuation of two United Nations personnel who had sustained combat-related injuries in the Zemio area. 

Issuing a statement, the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) said demonstrating exceptional operational readiness and professionalism, the mission was executed using a Mi-17 helicopter (UNO 325P).

The aircraft was captained by Wing Commander Nelson De Silva, with Flight Lieutenant Arunoda Ekanayake serving as Co-Pilot. The aircrew comprised Squadron Leader Sandeepa Wijayathunga, Sergeant Senevirathne WCN, and Corporal Rodrigo DVPM. The Aeromedical Evacuation Team consisted of Group Captain Sujith Perera, Flight Sergeant Sumedha KW and Flight Sergeant Karunadasa RDH, who provided critical in-flight medical care to the casualties.

The extraction site was located approximately 20 kilometres northeast of the Zemio Permanent Operating Base (POB) and presented significant operational challenges. These included extremely dusty landing conditions, an unstable and rapidly evolving tactical environment, and the requirement for a precision landing under constant threat. Despite these constraints, the aircrew displayed remarkable courage, sound judgment, and outstanding airmanship throughout the operation.

A comprehensive threat assessment conducted by the Captain, taking into account the critical condition of the casualties, reflected exceptional adaptability and operational decision-making. Through meticulous planning, effective coordination, and unwavering commitment to mission success, the CASEVAC operation was executed flawlessly.

The total flight duration of the mission was 1 hour and 45 minutes. The injured personnel were safely extracted from the hostile location and successfully transported to Bangui for advanced medical treatment. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has requested the cooperation of the public when operating drones in areas affected by the ongoing disaster situation, warning that unregulated drone operations during Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions pose a significant risk to air operations conducted by the SLAF and other response agencies.

Issuing a statement, the SLAF said that the presence of drones, whether authorized or unauthorized, in active airspace can interfere with flight paths, disrupt critical rescue and relief missions and may lead to tragic aircraft accidents. 

Such incidents endanger the lives of aircrew members, jeopardize valuable air assets and place people on the ground at serious risk, it said. 

To ensure the safety and efficiency of all ongoing HADR air operations, the SLAF has appealed to the public to adhere to the following requests;

. Refrain from operating drones in areas where SLAF aircraft or other response aircraft are engaged in relief missions.

. Inform the SLAF of all drone take-off and landing times, whether authorized or unauthorized, before conducting any drone operations by contacting:

• General Lines: 0112343970 / 0112343971
• Hotline: 115

The SLAF added that the public’s cooperation is essential to safeguard lives and ensure uninterrupted air operations during this critical period. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) says a board of inquiry has been appointed and an investigation has been initiated into the emergency landing of a Bell 212 helicopter near the Lunuwila Bridge.

Issuing a statement, the SLAF said the inquiry has been launched under the directives of the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe. 

The probe comes after a SLAF Bell 212 helicopter, which had been engaged in distributing dry and fresh rations to the flood-affected communities in the Lunuwila area, made an emergency landing near the Lunuwila Bridge yesterday.

Five Air Force personnel, including two pilots, were onboard at the time of the incident. With the assistance of residents in the area, all injured personnel were promptly evacuated and transferred to Maravila Base Hospital for further medical treatment.

Despite the best efforts of the medical team, the Captain Pilot, Wing Commander Nirmal Siyambalapitiya, tragically succumbed. A highly experienced helicopter pilot, he had accumulated over 3,000 flying hours during his distinguished service. 

The Co-Pilot and the other three Air Force personnel onboard have survived the incident and are currently receiving medical care. (Newswire)

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The Cabinet has approved a multi-million dollar contract for the urgent overhaul of four MI-17 helicopters operated by the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), at a cost of around US$4.5 million per helicopter. 

According to the Sunday Times, a complete report pertaining to the MI-17 overhaul and service life extension tender will be submitted to the Cabinet next week.

The total cost of the overhaul and service life extension is estimated at US$18 million, while the budget also includes round-trip transport and insurance for the aircraft.

M/s Winsley Defence Group d.o.o. of Bosnia and Herzegovina, whose local agent is M/s Securatec Lanka (Pvt) Limited, has been awarded the tender after being identified as the lowest evaluated substantially responsive bidder.  

The SLAF initiated the bidding process in 2023, but progress was delayed due to bureaucratic hurdles. Winsley Defence Group was ultimately selected following evaluation of the bids.

Emphasizing the urgency of the overhaul, a senior SLAF official said the helicopters are long overdue for maintenance and warned that further delays could impact local operations such as flood rescue missions, as well as UN deployments involving SLAF personnel. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) says the Sri Aviation Unit Bria, operating under the United Nations mandate in the Central African Republic, successfully executed a critical Casualty Evacuation mission last week (14 June) amidst a highly hostile environment. 

Issuing a statement, the SLAF said that the operation involved an Mi-17 helicopter (UNO 326P) tasked with the urgent onsite casualty pickup of three UN personnel from Zemio who were severely wounded in combat.

The mission was commanded by Wing Commander Ishan Thibbotumunuwe (Captain), Wing Commander Nadun Deneththi as co-pilot and Flight Sergeant Chandana AMG, Sergeant Perera GGPK, Corporal Weerasinghe KPS and Corporal Rodrigo DVMP as the aircrew.  

Confronted with a hostile area and unpredictable ground conditions, the crew displayed exceptional professionalism and courage.

The withdrawal site at Zemio presented multiple challenges, including extreme dusty landing conditions, a volatile tactical situation and the requirement for precision landing amidst a rapidly changing ground threat posture. 

The operation was further compounded by the necessity of a night extraction during adverse weather, requiring the use of Night Vision Goggles for safe and effective execution. 

The SLAF said that despite these adversities, the mission was precisely planned and flawlessly executed. In addition, the total flight time of this operation was 3 hours and 50 minutes.

The timely response and seamless coordination among the aircrew and support teams ensured the safe evacuation and transport of the casualties to Bria for further medical treatment, it added. (Newswire)

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A Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) training aircraft crashed in the Wariyapola area today.

According to the SLAF Spokesman, both pilots on board ejected safely and landed using parachutes.

No casualties or injuries have been reported from the incident, and the crash did not affect civilians in the area.

Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Air Force has conducted a test landing on an 850-meter section of the renovated runway at the Hingurakgoda Airport. 

The SLAF said before proceeding with the final asphalt-wearing course, the Road Development Authority (RDA) consultant team had recommended conducting a test landing on the completed 850-meter section. 

A Y-12 aircraft, piloted by the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, successfully conducted the test landing on Monday. 

The Sri Lankan Air Force said the next stage of construction, which involves extending the runway by another 850 meters, is scheduled to begin today (Jan 15).

With approval granted by the President, the project aims to complete the full 2,500-meter runway, ensuring it meets the operational requirements of larger aircraft.

The transformation of the Hingurakgoda runway is currently in progress to meet international standards and accommodate widely utilized A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft operations. 

After extensive consultations with key stakeholders, the SLAF was entrusted with the design and construction of the runway. 

The RDA has been assigned to review SLAF’s designs and provide consultations, while the Civil Aviation Authority and Airports and Aviation Sri Lanka will issue essential guidelines and regulatory frameworks through a cabinet memorandum.

The project was officially inaugurated on 19  August  2024, by the Special Project Management Unit of the SLAF. 

The plan is divided into four distinct phases, with the first phase focusing on the construction of the main runway. 

This phase includes seven stages and the initial allocation of funds facilitated the completion of stages one and two, resulting in the asphalt binder course for 850 meters of the total 2,500-meter runway. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) will conduct the ‘Air Tattoo’ Educational and Technical Exhibition 2024 in Jaffna this week, in commemoration of the SLAF’s 73rd anniversary commemorated this year. 

According to the SLFA, the ‘Air Tattoo’ exhibition will be held at the Mutraweli Grounds in Jaffna from today (Mar 06) until March 10, 2024. 

Several stalls representing state and private universities, schools, businesses, and Information Technology companies, will be set up at the exhibition. 

Apart from the trade fairs, the SLAF has also organized musical events every evening for the entertainment of the crowds visiting the exhibition.

The SLAF added that students in uniform will be allowed to attend the exhibition free of charge. (NewsWire)

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Four paratroopers have sustained minor injuries during rehearsals for Sri Lanka’s Independence Day Celebrations. 

According to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Spokesman, among the injured paratroopers, two are from the Air Force and two are from the Sri Lanka Army.

They had sustained minor injuries as their parachutes had become entangled during a landing mishap while participating in Independence Day rehearsals today. (NewsWire)

Four paratroopers, two from the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) and two from the Sri Lanka Army, sustained minor injuries as their parachutes became entangled during a landing mishap in Independence Day rehearsal- SLAF Spokesman. pic.twitter.com/TukYQqfJ84

— NewsWire (@NewsWireLK) January 30, 2024

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A panel of investigators has been appointed to look into the incident of an MI-17 helicopter of the Sri Lankan Air Force (SLAF) crash-landing in the Central African Republic.

According to the SLAF, the helicopter had crash-landed due to bad weather during a United Nations (UN) mission in the Central African Republic.

The SLAF further said there were no reports of casualty and the crew are reported to be safe. 

An investigation panel has been appointed to look into the incident on the directives of the SLAF Commander. (NewsWire)

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Sri Lanka Air Force’s (SLAF) Lion Cubs squadron has marked the culmination of 28 years of unwavering commitment and excellence. 

According to the SLAF, this milestone celebration not only signifies the squadron’s longevity but also heralds a legacy of indomitable spirit and transformative achievements. As they look back on their journey, The Lion Cubs stand as a testament to dedication, growth, and the pursuit of excellence in the realm of aviation.

Inaugurated on January 05, 1996, No. 10 Fighter Squadron emerged as a beacon of prowess with the introduction of six sleek tailless delta Kfir C2s stationed at SLAF Katunayake, led by the visionary pilot Squadron Leader Priyantha Gunasinghe. The squadron’s legacy soared to new heights in the year 2000 when an additional nine Kfir C2s and C7s reinforced its ranks, elevating the fleet to a formidable fifteen fighters. Crafted by Israel, the Kfir stands as a testament to ingenuity a versatile, all-weather, day-night fighter that seamlessly fulfills SLAF’s diverse needs, from Battlefield Air Strikes to Air Interception, Air Interdiction, and precision Maritime Air Strikes, executing missions with unparalleled precision and lethal force.

In the beginning, the No. 10 Fighter Squadron underwent a strategic fortification, enlisting a formidable assembly of four skilled pilots, four adept engineering officers, and a cadre of seventy highly specialized technicians. This elite force underwent meticulous training conducted by the esteemed Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and seasoned instructor pilots from the distinguished Israel Air Force, elevating their expertise to unparalleled heights.

Introducing a paradigm shift in aerial technology, the Kfir aircraft marked its historic induction into the Sri Lanka Air Force as the pioneer equipped with a Head-Up Display (HUD) and an intricately designed Weapons Delivery and Navigation System (WDNS). This pioneering move not only elevated SLAF’s capabilities but set a precedent for advanced avionics integration, laying the foundation for subsequent technological innovations in the realm of Sri Lanka Air Force aviation domain. Enhancing its combat prowess, the Kfir boasted a 5.4-ton bombload, complemented by two seamlessly integrated 30mm cannon guns, fortifying its firepower.

The Kfir’s formidable mighty and surgical precision played a pivotal role in dismantling numerous LTTE strongholds, ammunition dumps, fuel depots, troop concentrations, maritime elements, and artillery gun positions. This strategic offensive significantly mitigated LTTE attrition, facilitating ground troop advancements.

Since its inception, the No 10 Fighter Squadron has etched an illustrious record, amassing over 2,800 operational flying hours and delivering a staggering 3,500 tons of weapons with pinpoint accuracy on confirmed enemy targets. The introduction of Precision Guided Munitions (PGM) further amplified the Kfir’s impact, responding promptly and effectively to the nation’s call with unparalleled distinction and honour.

The culmination of these relentless efforts manifested in the nation’s decisive triumph over terrorism in 2009. Acknowledging the Squadron’s unparalleled contribution, prestigious Presidents’ Colours were awarded to No. 10 Fighter Squadron on March 08, 2009, recognizing their unique and enduring actions in eliminating the scourge of terrorism that plagued the island nation for over three decades.

The No 10 Fighter Squadron initiates a transformative journey by undertaking a substantial fleet upgrade to the cutting-edge C12 version. The squadron is poised for unprecedented advancement, pushing its operational boundaries through a fusion of highly advanced avionics, navigation, and weaponry systems. This evolution positions the squadron as the vanguard of the Sri Lanka Air Force, dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s airspace with unparalleled performance.

The SLAF added that the combination of these integrations of cutting-edge technologies fortifies the squadron’s commitment to future national service, solidifying its role as the preeminent defender of the skies. Guided by the unwavering dedication of its proficient crew, led by present Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Prabath Wijekoon, the No 10 Fighter Squadron is set to thrive, ensuring the Sri Lanka Air Force ensign soars high into the future. (NewsWire)

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Air Marshall Udeni Rajapaksa assumed duties as the 19th Commander of the Air Force today (June 30).

President Ranil Wickremasinghe, in his capacity as the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, promoted Air Vice Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa to the three-star rank of Air Marshal with effect from today (30 June 2023) and appointed him as the 19th Commander of the Air Force.

According to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), Air Marshal Rajapaksa Appuhamilage Udeni Priyadarshana Rajapaksa, a distinguished military officer, was born on 29 January 1969, in Ihalagama, Gampaha District. He received his primary education at Parakrama Vidyalaya, Bandarawatta and Bandaranaike College, Gampaha. Continuing his academic journey, he pursued his secondary education at Ananda College, Colombo. Displaying a strong commitment to serving his country, he joined the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence Academy in Ratmalana as an Officer Cadet on 6 October 1988, as part of the 6th Officer Cadets’ Intake.

Air Marshal Rajapaksa underwent Basic Combat Training and pursued undergraduate studies as a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering at the Kotelawala Defence Academy. Afterwards, he successfully completed Basic Flying Training at No. 1 Flying Training Wing, Sri Lanka Air Force Base Anuradhapura, where he excelled and was recognized as the Best Flight Cadet in the 33rd Flight Cadets’ course. Following this achievement, he progressed to No. 2 Squadron, Sri Lanka Air Force Base Ratmalana, for Advanced Flying Training. On 5 October 1990, he was commissioned with the rank of Pilot Officer in the General Duties Pilots Branch.

Air Marshal Rajapaksa’s expertise as a pilot extends to a remarkable range of aircraft. He holds the distinction of being a VVIP Captain Pilot and is qualified to fly ten types of aircraft, including the CESSNA-150, HARBIN Y-12, HS-748, SF-260TP, IA-58 PUCARA, B-200T, AN-32 and C-130. Throughout his career, he has accumulated over 7000 flying hours, encompassing both combat and transport missions. His exceptional skills are underscored by holding the highest Instrument Rating, the “Master Green Rating,” as well as a civil Air Transport Pilots Licence (ATPL). Notably, he demonstrated his resilience and ingenuity during a night ejection from a Pucara aircraft in 1997, while on an operational bombing mission. Additionally, he has been commended for his outstanding handling of a serious emergency situation during a combat mission, earning him recognition from Martin-Baker Aircraft Co. Ltd. and fortunate to join the esteemed “Ejection Tie Club.”

Air Marshal Rajapaksa, in his pursuit of professional development, successfully completed the Junior Command and Staff Course at the Command and Staff Training Institute in Bangladesh. Additionally, he actively participated in the Flight Safety Officers Course in Pakistan and the Advanced Security Cooperation Course in the United States. Displaying his commitment to academic excellence, he obtained a Master of Science in Defence Studies in Management from General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, achieving a “Merit Pass.” Moreover, he holds a Master of Science in Military Operational Art from the Air University in Alabama, USA, and a Master of Arts in International Security and Strategy from King’s College, London, UK, both with a “Merit Pass” distinction. Furthermore, he is a distinguished alumnus of the Air Command and Staff College, Air University, Alabama, USA, where he was awarded the “pass staff college (psc)” distinction. He also attended the Royal College of Defence Studies (rcds) in the United Kingdom, specializing in International Security & Strategy.

In recognition of his contributions during humanitarian operations, Air Marshal Rajapaksa has been awarded the prestigious gallantry medal “Rana Sura Padakkama” on three occasions. Moreover, due to his exemplary and unblemished service, Air Marshal Rajapaksa has been honoured with the “Vishishta Seva Vibhushanaya” and the “Uttama Seva Padakkama” medals.

Throughout his career, Air Marshal Rajapaksa has assumed various significant appointments. He served as the Base Commander at SLAF Base Hingurakgoda from 1 May 2011 to 8 June 2012. Subsequently, he undertook the crucial role of Sri Lankan Defence Attaché to the Sri Lanka Embassy in the Russian Federation from 2012 to 2014. Following his tenure in Russia, he was appointed as the Senior Air Staff Officer (SASO) on 21 April 2014. Later, on 1 September 2015, he assumed the role of Base Commander at Sri Lanka Air Force Base Vavuniya. Additionally, he served as Air Secretary to the 16th Commander of the Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Kapila Jayampathi, from 12 September 2016 to 23 August 2017 and again from 7 August 2018 to 30 June 2019.

Air Marshal Rajapaksa’s leadership continued to flourish as he assumed command of various Air Bases. Notably, in 2020, he held the appointment of Commandant at the Sri Lanka Air Force Academy in China Bay and subsequently took on the role of Eastern Air Commander. Later, he assumed responsibilities as the Base Commander of Sri Lanka Air Force Base Katunayake, Southern Air Commander and Overall Operations Commander (Air Defence) during his tenure at Sri Lanka Air Force Base Katunayake. Progressing further, he became a Member of the Air Force Board of Management as the Director Air Operations from 14 February 2022 to 26 September 2022 and subsequently, he shouldered the esteemed appointment of Chief of Staff in the Air Force Headquarters from 27 September 2022 to 29 June 2023 before being appointed as the Commander of the Air Force.

Beyond his military achievements, Air Marshal Rajapaksa is an avid sportsman who has represented the Sri Lanka Air Force in Table Tennis, Tennis and Golf. He also held the Chairmanship of Sri Lanka Air Force Athletics. His prowess in golf was particularly noteworthy, earning him the Championship at the Commander’s Cup Golf, Eagles’ Challenge Trophy, in 2021. Furthermore, his exceptional performances in Golf at the 11th and 12th Defence Services Games in 2021 and 2023, respectively, brought him considerable recognition. In acknowledgment of his sporting achievements, he was awarded SLAF Colours for Tennis and Golf. (NewsWire)

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