The Change of Command of SLAF Base Katunayake was conducted today (7 December 2020).

The traditional Handing Over/ Taking Over Parade took place today where the outgoing Base Commander, Air Vice Marshal H S S Thuyacontha WWV, RWP and two Bars, RSP and Bar, USP, MMSc (Strat Stu –China), MSc (Def Stu) in Mgt, MSc (Def & Strat Stu), fndu (China), psc handed over command to Air Vice Marshal R A U P Rajapaksa RSP and two Bars, USP, MSc (MOA) USA, MSc (Def Stu) in Mgt, MA in IS&S (UK), BSc (Def Stu), MIM (SL), rcds, psc. Air Vice Marshal HSS Thuyacontha will be proceeding to the AFHQ Colombo where he will be assuming duties as the Director Training.
   
During the parade, the outgoing Base Commander addressed the Base and conveyed his sincere gratitude for all personnel for the support extended to him during his tenure as the Base Commander.

The new Base Commander, Air Vice Marshal R A U P Rajapaksa assumed the office amidst religious blessings. Air Vice Marshal Rajapaksa has also been appointed as the Southern Air Commander and Overall Operations Commander Air Defence (OOCAD) of the SLAF in addition to his duties as the Base Commander.