A new chapter into the annals of the SLAF Combat Training School Diyatalawa was added on 28 August 2020 with the successfully completion of the 1st Narcotic, Explosive Detection and Search Canines Course for a batch of new Air Dogs imported from the Netherlands. The training was conducted from 6 March to 27 August 2020 at the School Premises.

This course has been initiated as an exclusive concept of the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Sumangala Dias to bring in new capabilities with regard to Air Dog Training as there has been a lacuna of narcotics and explosive detection training at SLAF. Further, the course was coordinated by Directorate of Ground Operations and Director Training with assistance of the Sri Lanka Police Kennel Division and officials of the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board of Sri Lanka.

A batch of 20 Air Dogs and senior 20 Air Dog Handlers of the SLAF followed the course. These handlers and Canines could effectively be utilized in narcotics and explosive detection duties at Bandaranyake and Mattala International Airports to achieve national security interests.

Addressing the closing ceremony, the Commanding Officer of the School, Air Commodore Chaminda Wickramaratne thanked all personnel who supported in completing this course successfully for their enormous support and guidance throughout. Finally, mementos were presented to instructors from the Sri Lanka Police Kennel Division and the officials of National Dangerous Drugs Control Board who contributed to conduct the training successfully.