An emergency landed French Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) which is deployed under United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) was recovered by Sri Lanka Aviation Unit on 07th July 2017. The operation was directed by MINUSCA Force Headquarters and Sri Lanka Aviation Unit utilized a MI 171Sh helicopter (SMH 4416) for the operation.

Before the recovery, Sri Lanka Aviation Pilots initially carried out a reconnaissance over recovery site which is sited in a jungle area in order to plan the operation.

Initially the recovery team including one Sri Lankan Air Gunner and three members of French Special Forces were winched to the recovery site for the clearance. Upon the confirmation of the recovery team, the helicopter conducted the under slung operation and air lifted the UAV to the French Base. Thereafter, the helicopter winched up the team from the recovery site safely.

After the operation, the professionalism and the competency of the Sri Lankan Pilots, Flight Engineer, Air Gunners and Technical Crew were highlighted and appreciated by the MINUSCA Force Headquarters. The operation was led by the Squadron Leader Kanchana Liyanaarachchi under the guidance of the Contingent Commander Wing commander Priyamal Fernando.