SRI LANKA AIR FORCE PRESSES AHEAD WITH MULTI- BILLION RUPEE FLEET MODERNISATION

Sri Lanka Air Force is planning a major reinforcement of its fleet at a cost of US $ 18 million (Rs.5.4 billion) by acquiring new aircrafts while overhauling the existing ones as it celebrates its 75th anniversary this year amid persistent challenges in maintaining them.

- By DARSHANA SANJEEWA BALASURIYA

Despite facing significant economic constraints and geopolitical hurdles, the SLAF has announced a series of strategic acquisitions and overhauls, ranging from the return of upgraded Kfir fighter jets to the receipt of US-donated helicopters to strengthen the nation's air defence and humanitarian operations.

SLAF Deputy Chief of Staff Air Vice Marshal Gihan Seneviratne said that as part of its fleet expansion and modernisation efforts, the SLAF has received two aircraft- the Beechcraft King Air 350 and 360ER - donated by the United States and Australia. These aircraft have enhanced maritime domain awareness and disaster preparedness capabilities, he said.

The SLAF is also expecting 10 TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters from the United States, originating from the US Navy, with arrival anticipated in May. These helicopters are expected to boost training capacity and disaster response preparedness.