The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) is set to enhance its air capabilities with the addition of eight TH-57 helicopters from the United States and an FT-7 trainer aircraft from Pakistan, slated for delivery in 2025.
SLAF Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa confirmed that the U.S. will provide eight TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters in the first quarter of 2025. These military variants of the Bell 206 are primarily used for training and operational missions by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, and their acquisition is part of long-term discussions aimed at bolstering Sri Lanka’s air capabilities.
In addition, during bilateral talks with Pakistan, the SLAF secured an FT-7 trainer aircraft as a grant. This aircraft will further strengthen the Air Force’s fleet, enhancing its training capabilities.
The SLAF’s recent acquisitions also include two Beechcraft King Air aircraft. Last September, Sri Lanka received a King Air 360ER from the U.S. and a King Air 350 from Australia in December. These aircraft are designed to improve the country’s capabilities in search and rescue, maritime surveillance, and counter-trafficking operations, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s efforts to combat drug smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal fishing.
Air Marshal Rajapaksa emphasized that these aircraft have already contributed to surveillance operations over Sri Lanka’s seas, protecting local fishermen and naval personnel from piracy and maritime threats.
As part of its modernization program, the SLAF is also upgrading its fleet of Kfir fighter jets. A 2021 agreement with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) will see five Kfir C12 jets, replacing older C2 and C3 models, integrated into the SLAF fleet in 2025. These jets will play a key role in surveillance across the Indian Ocean.
Furthermore, the SLAF has procured two Chinese-made Y12 aircraft and is investing in modern drone security systems, as well as new air defence and radar systems, to enhance its overall defense capabilities.
“We are committed to strengthening our defense infrastructure, and these efforts are aligned with broader government initiatives to boost national security and support economic growth,” said Air Marshal Rajapaksa.
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