The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) is undertaking a major fleet reinforcement programme valued at US$18 million (Rs. 5.4 billion), combining new aircraft acquisitions with the overhaul of existing platforms as it marks its 75th anniversary this year. The initiative comes amid ongoing economic constraints and challenges in maintaining operational readiness.
Despite financial and geopolitical pressures, the SLAF has announced several strategic upgrades. These include the return of upgraded IAI Kfir fighter jets and the acquisition of helicopters donated by the United States to strengthen air defence and humanitarian response capabilities.
SLAF Deputy Chief of Staff Gihan Seneviratne said the Air Force recently received two surveillance aircraft — the Beechcraft King Air 350 and the Beechcraft King Air 360ER — donated by the United States and Australia. These aircraft have significantly enhanced maritime domain awareness and disaster preparedness.
The SLAF is also expecting 10 TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters from the United States, formerly operated by the US Navy, with their arrival anticipated in May. The helicopters are expected to boost pilot training and disaster response capabilities.
Four Mil Mi-17 helicopters are scheduled to be sent to Georgia for overhaul under a life-extension programme costing approximately US$18 million. The upgrades are expected to be completed within six to eight months. Three helicopters will then be deployed with the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic, while one will rejoin the local fleet.
Discussions are also ongoing with the United States regarding the possible acquisition of two Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft and additional utility helicopters.
The grounded Xian MA60 passenger transport aircraft is expected to return to service with assistance from its Chinese manufacturer. Meanwhile, two Chinese-built fighter jets — the Chengdu F-7 and the Hongdu K-8 — are undergoing overhaul at the SLAF facility in Katunayake with Chinese technical support and are expected to resume operations this year.
Five Kfir jets are nearing completion of a US$50 million upgrade programme carried out in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries, incorporating advanced avionics, modern radar systems, and enhanced sensors. The upgraded aircraft are expected to become operational by the end of the year.
Air Vice Marshal Seneviratne noted that the SLAF faced significant operational challenges during the recent Ditwah cyclone but was able to respond effectively despite limited resources caused by the economic crisis and global tensions, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
As part of its 75th anniversary celebrations, the SLAF has planned a range of activities, including capability development initiatives and community service programmes. A Space Research and Innovation Section will be launched at Air Force Headquarters in Akuregoda on March 1 under the vision of Air Marshal Bandhu Edirisinghe, aiming to develop future space-related capabilities.
The Air Force Day Parade will be held on March 2 at SLAF Base Katunayake. A commemorative stamp and a special anniversary song will also be launched. An air exhibition and aircraft display is scheduled from March 6 to 8 at SLAF Base Ratmalana. Additionally, in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of Sri Lanka, the SLAF will conduct the Guwan Hamuda Papedi Sawariya 2026 cycling race from February 27 to March 1, with separate events for men and women.
