Uplifting aviation capabilities remains an important part of improving national security, disaster response, and emergency services. Against this backdrop, the Sri Lanka Air Force has received a new fleet of helicopters from the United States to expand its operational and training capacity.
The official handover of ten TH-57 Sea Ranger multi-purpose helicopters donated by the United States took place on June 23 at the Ratmalana Air Force Base under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), the helicopters are expected to enhance pilot training programmes while supporting a wider range of air operations in the years ahead.
Bilateral Agreement Signed
During the event, a bilateral agreement was signed by the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, and the Commander of the United States Pacific Air Forces, General Kevin Schneider.
The agreement marked the formal transfer of the helicopter fleet and highlighted ongoing defence cooperation between the two countries.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also inspected the aircraft and participated in a group photograph with Air Force personnel.
Expanding Operational Capabilities
The TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters are expected to support multiple operational requirements across different sectors.
According to the PMD, the fleet will be deployed for:
- Pilot and aircrew training
- Disaster relief operations
- Search and rescue missions
- Emergency public service activities
- United Nations peacekeeping mission training
Officials believe the additional aircraft will improve operational readiness while expanding the Air Force’s ability to respond to emergencies and humanitarian situations.
Support for Disaster Response and Public Services
The helicopters are expected to strengthen response capabilities during natural disasters and emergency situations.
Air mobility plays a critical role during floods, landslides, medical emergencies, and rescue operations, particularly in difficult-to-access locations.
The new fleet is also expected to support training programmes for personnel involved in international peacekeeping operations.
Aircraft Arrived Earlier This Month
The helicopters arrived in the country on June 1 through a specialised cargo operation from the United States.
Following their arrival, the aircraft were assembled by the Air Engineering Wing at the Ratmalana Air Force Base.
Officials said the helicopters will be deployed for operational duties after completing all required technical inspections and test flights to ensure compatibility with local airspace and climatic conditions.
Senior Officials Attend Ceremony
The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), and Marshal of the Air Force Roshan Gunathilake.
Representatives from the United States Embassy also attended, including Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Paul Kapur, Chargé d’Affaires Jayne Howell, and Senior Defence Official and Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Matthew House.
Why It Matters
The addition of ten TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters increases the Air Force’s training capacity while providing additional resources for emergency response and humanitarian operations.
For the defence sector, the fleet strengthens aviation capabilities. For the public, it enhances the country’s ability to respond to disasters, search and rescue missions, and other emergency situations that require rapid air support.
Last modified: June 24, 2026
