The No 10 Fighter Squadron which renowned as “Lion Cubs” celebrated its 26th anniversary yesterday (05 January 2022). The day’s proceedings began with a Working Parade which was reviewed by the Acting Commanding Officer of the Squadron, Wing Commander KGRI Perera at hangar premises. 
 
Addressing squadron personnel, the Acting Commanding Officer recalled the service rendered to the nation by this illustrious squadron and noticeable past squadron members who had shouldered the 26 years long journey and emphasized the importance of sustaining high standards in all aspects as a Fighter Squadron. A Buddha statue was offered to Sri Bodhirathanaramaya, Katunayake in commemorating air warriors who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom of the nation. Proceedings of the day were concluded with a Bhodi Pooja which was conducted at the temple premises. 
 
At the commencement the No 10 Fighter Squadron was strengthened with four (4) pilots, four (4) engineering officers and seventy (70) technicians who were soundly trained by IAI technical expertise’s and instructor pilots from Israel. The present Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana was one of the elite pilots of the No 10 Fighter Squadron, along with Wing Commander Janaka Wijetilleke (Retd)   and Group Captain Sajeewa Hendawitharane (Retd) . The Commander was appointed as the first Officer Commanding Operations and subsequently ascended to command of the squadron as its second Commanding Officer from 7th of June 2000. 
 
During the humanitarian operation, No. 10 Kfir Squadron was one of the most comminatory squadrons in the Air Force that its remarkable contribution has paved the way for the task of liberating the island from the grip of terrorism. With the endowing effort and commitment of air and ground crew the No 10 Fighter Squadron will continue to thrive in future with capabilities of second to none in the regional Air Forces with the newest updates and highly trained personnel, keeping the Air Force ensign flying high.