No. 6 Helicopter Squadron, SLAF Base Anuradhapura, celebrated its 30th anniversary today (15 March 2023). The squadron was formed on 15 March 1993, at SLAF Base Katunayake, with the arrival of Mil Mi-17 helicopters. The squadron then moved to SLAF Base Vavuniya on 29 April 1993 and later moved to Anuradhapura due to high operational requirements.

The No. 6 Helicopter Squadron, home to the Russian-built Mi-17 helicopters nick-named "Tuskers in the Skies”, has extended its wings globally by participating in UN Peacekeeping missions since 2014. The squadron is capable of conducting a wide spectrum of air operations, which include VVIP/VIP/ Commercial flights, Casualty Evacuation, Medical Evacuation, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Operations, Search and Rescue (SAR) Operations, Tactical and Armed Reconnaissance and Close Air Support.

Through the valiant efforts of this squadron, countless military and civilian lives have been saved and thus, the No. 6 Helicopter Squadron was bestowed with the colours of His Excellency the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in 2021.

The squadron is currently commanded by Group Captain Tyronne Munasinghe.