The No 6 Helicopter Squadron marked its 19th anniversary today. Under the guidance of the Commanding Officer Wing Commander Kalinga Maheepala a range of activities was organized to coincide with formation day celebrations. The event was initiated with the Commanding Officer’s address during the parade.

Further the squadron organized a Shramadana Campaign at the ‘Sangamiththa Aramaya” and the ‘Thammannakulum  Vidyalaya’ in Anuradhapura. The unique feature during the commemoration programme was the Research and Development competition. Twelve (12) teams after going through months of research and development brought into display their exhibits, which were all in a high standard. The occasion was graced by the Base Commander of SLAF Base Anuradhapura Gp Capt Shehan Fernando, who also presented the prize for the best R&D team which developed a camera to check the VGV angle of the TV3-117BM engine fitted to the Mi 17 helicopter. All personnel of the squadron engaged in a friendly cricket tournament later and the anniversary celebrations ended with the lighting of oil lamps at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya and obtaining blessing of the noble triple gem.

During the past 19 years, No 6 Helicopter Squadron with its fleet of Mi 171’s, Mi 17 1V’s and Mi 17 v-5’s, has become a fully fledged unit and has immensely contributed as the ‘Tusker in the Sky’ to safe guard the nation’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. The squadron is entrusted with troop and cargo transportation, VVIP, VIP and commercial flights, CASEVAC/MEDIVACS, Para dropping and a wide range of special operations such as Bambi bucket, search and rescue and winching operations and external heavy load lifting.


Shramadana Campaign at the Thammannapura  Vidyalaya'




Shramadana Campaign at the ‘Sangamiththa Aramaya'




Research and Development Competition




Formation Day Celebrations