SRI LANKA AIR FORCE CELEBRATES 73 YEARS OF SKY BOUND EXCELLENCE
4:52pm on Saturday 2nd March 2024
The Sri Lanka Air Force officially celebrated the 73rd anniversary today (02 March 2024) with all SLAF establishments. The proceedings commenced with the Official Parade which was held at Air Force Headquarters under the auspices of the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa.
The Commander addressed everyone present at AFHQ as well as all members of the SLAF through live streaming technology, courtesy of the Directorate of Electronics and Information Technology Engineering. The Commander commenced his address by paying tribute to those past members of the SLAF who either made the supreme sacrifice or were rendered differently abled due to injuries sustained. He also paid tribute to past Commanders of the Air Force, Officers, Other Ranks and Civilians who, through their dedication, powered the Air Force to overcome one of the most ruthless terrorist outfits the world has ever seen and to bring lasting peace to our island nation.
In his address on the 73rd anniversary, he stated that the upgrading of fighter jets will be completed promptly, along with enhancing the air defense system by updating radar technology and incorporating advancements such as drone technology and unmanned aerial vehicles produced within the Air Force. Emphasis was placed on the crucial responsibility of securing Sri Lanka's maritime boundaries amidst the ongoing development of a maritime economy. Additionally, ensuring readiness for search and rescue operations during maritime emergencies and swift responses to international disasters at sea were highlighted as priority tasks. The deployment of acquired aircraft like the Donier 228, as well as upcoming grants for the BEECHCRAFT 360 ER from the United States of America and BEECHCRAFT 350 from Australia, was highlighted to meet the demands of the Indian Ocean's dynamic geographical and political conditions. Furthermore, he mentioned that the Sri Lanka Air Force aims to contribute to UN peacekeeping efforts, starting with a new mission in Yemen alongside existing duties in Central Africa, to showcase operational expertise and support national economic development. Next, anticipation was expressed for the Colombo International Air Show in May as an opportunity to introduce international technical knowledge and establish connections beneficial to the Air Force and the nation. Then he made a brief introduction of the ‘Wings of Friendship’ major endeavour and Air Tattoo 2024, which will be kicked off in Northern Province in line with the 73rd anniversary celebration.
Finally, he stressed that all the airmen and women should work to the maximum benefit of the nation with 100% Discipline, Excellence and Integrity to ensure the effective employment of Airpower.
The Commander addressed everyone present at AFHQ as well as all members of the SLAF through live streaming technology, courtesy of the Directorate of Electronics and Information Technology Engineering. The Commander commenced his address by paying tribute to those past members of the SLAF who either made the supreme sacrifice or were rendered differently abled due to injuries sustained. He also paid tribute to past Commanders of the Air Force, Officers, Other Ranks and Civilians who, through their dedication, powered the Air Force to overcome one of the most ruthless terrorist outfits the world has ever seen and to bring lasting peace to our island nation.
In his address on the 73rd anniversary, he stated that the upgrading of fighter jets will be completed promptly, along with enhancing the air defense system by updating radar technology and incorporating advancements such as drone technology and unmanned aerial vehicles produced within the Air Force. Emphasis was placed on the crucial responsibility of securing Sri Lanka's maritime boundaries amidst the ongoing development of a maritime economy. Additionally, ensuring readiness for search and rescue operations during maritime emergencies and swift responses to international disasters at sea were highlighted as priority tasks. The deployment of acquired aircraft like the Donier 228, as well as upcoming grants for the BEECHCRAFT 360 ER from the United States of America and BEECHCRAFT 350 from Australia, was highlighted to meet the demands of the Indian Ocean's dynamic geographical and political conditions. Furthermore, he mentioned that the Sri Lanka Air Force aims to contribute to UN peacekeeping efforts, starting with a new mission in Yemen alongside existing duties in Central Africa, to showcase operational expertise and support national economic development. Next, anticipation was expressed for the Colombo International Air Show in May as an opportunity to introduce international technical knowledge and establish connections beneficial to the Air Force and the nation. Then he made a brief introduction of the ‘Wings of Friendship’ major endeavour and Air Tattoo 2024, which will be kicked off in Northern Province in line with the 73rd anniversary celebration.
Finally, he stressed that all the airmen and women should work to the maximum benefit of the nation with 100% Discipline, Excellence and Integrity to ensure the effective employment of Airpower.
