Air Vice Marshal Lasitha Sumanaweera
RWP, RSP and Bar, USP, MPil (Ind), MDS, MSc (Strat Stu), MIM (SL), fawc, ndc (Ind), psc
Air Vice Marshal Lasitha Sumanaweera is a decorated military aviator and a strategic leader with an illustrious career spanning over three decades in the Sri Lanka Air Force. A proud alumnus of President’s College, Minuwangoda. He embarked on his journey in 1991 as an Officer Cadet in the General Duties Pilot Branch of the 24th intake. Following rigorous training at the Sri Lanka Air Force Combat Training School, Diyatalawa, he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in 1993, marking the beginning of a distinguished career.
Commencing his operational career with No. 04 Helicopter Squadron, he mastered Bell 206, Bell 212 and Bell 412 helicopters, actively participating in high risk military operations. In 1998, he was promoted to Flight Lieutenant and transitioned to the No. 09 Attack Helicopter Squadron, where he flew the formidable Mi-24/35 gunships in intense combat zones.
In 2003, after being promoted to Squadron Leader, he was appointed as the Officer Commanding Operations at No. 09 Squadron Attack Helicopter Squadron, leading numerous humanitarian and combat operations. His leadership and tactical prowess played a crucial role in safeguarding national security. Promoted to Wing Commander in 2009, he distinguished himself by successfully completing the prestigious Defence Services Command and Staff Course, earning the esteemed Golden Owl honours for academic and professional excellence. His exceptional skills led to his selection as an instructor at the staff college, where he dedicated two years to training military Officers. Known for his scholarly dedication, he pursued postgraduate studies, earning two Master’s Degrees before achieving an MPhil in Defence and Strategic Studies from India with First Class Honours and Distinction.
From 2011 to 2015, he commanded No. 04 VVIP/VIP Helicopter Squadron where he flew Heads of State and distinguished dignitaries. In 2014, he was promoted to Group Captain and subsequently led No. 06 Helicopter Squadron, spearheading the deployment of two Mi-17 contingents for UN peacekeeping missions in Central Africa and South Sudan. In 2015, he was appointed as the Senior Air Staff Officer at Air Force Headquarters, where he played a vital role in Air operations, policy-making and training. His leadership continued to expand as he took over the command of SLAF Station Palaly in 2017 and later served as the Base Commander of SLAF Base Vavuniya.
In 2019, he was promoted to Air Commodore and assumed the role of Northern Air Commander and Base Commander at SLAF Northern Air Command Headquarters, Anuradhapura. He later took command of SLAF Base Katunayake, overseeing 29 independent formations, including two fighter squadrons and a heavy transport squadron. His expertise in Air defense culminated in his appointment as the first-ever Director Air Defence in SLAF history.
With over 5,200 flying hours and an impeccable service record, Air Vice Marshal Sumanaweera is a VVIP-rated pilot and a highly respected military leader. Continuing his upward trajectory, Air Vice Marshal Sumanaweera was appointed Director General Training before assuming duties as Director General Air Operations of the Sri Lanka Air Force. In that role, he oversaw the critical aspects of SLAF's aerial strategy, national defense and operational readiness, shaping the future of Sri Lanka's Air Power.
Air Vice Marshal Lasitha Sumanaweera's extraordinary service and valor have been recognized and awarded with Sri Lanka’s highest military honours: Rana Wickrama Padakkama (RWP) for acts of extraordinary bravery in combat. Rana Sura Padakkama (RSP) twice, for exceptional courage in the face of the enemy. Uttama Seva Padakkama (USP) for outstanding service, merit, and exemplary conduct.
Currently, he serves as the Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Air Force, where he plays a key role in strategic decision-making and the overall management of the force. In this capacity, he is responsible for coordinating high-level operational and administrative functions, ensuring the effective implementation of defense strategies, and fostering the professional growth of personnel. His leadership continues to drive innovation and excellence within the Air Force, further strengthening its role in safeguarding the nation’s security.
