The bilateral exercise, 'Atlas Angel,' led by the Montana National Guard, commenced today (05 August 2024) at SLAF Base Katunayake and SLAF Academy China Bay. This comprehensive five-day training will be conducted in partnership with the US Pacific Air Forces, marks a significant collaboration between the United States and Sri Lankan military, with additional participation from the Maldives National Defence Forces and civilian experts from the Disaster Management Centre.

The ‘Atlas Angel’ exercise includes six Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), focusing on C-130 Pilot Exchange, C-130 Aviation Maintenance, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) at SLAF Base Katunayake. Additionally, the exercise will cover Medical Search and Rescue (SAR), Urban SAR and Airfield Assessment at SLAF Academy China Bay.

Aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation and readiness in addressing natural and man-made disasters, the exercise will feature a series of workshops, briefings and training sessions. These events are designed to improve mutual understanding and coordination in disaster response efforts. SLAF pilots, flight engineers, loadmasters, and medical personnel will gain valuable experience in advanced disaster management techniques, with key topics including an overview of natural and man-made hazards, interagency coordination, and the utilization of aerial platforms in HADR operations.

The exercise will provide an in-depth look at both Sri Lanka's and the United States' disaster management structures and processes. Participants will explore the roles and responsibilities of various agencies, inter-jurisdictional relationships, and the strategic use of mutual aid agreements and compacts.

The opening ceremony, held at SLAF Base Katunayake, was attended by Major General Pete Hronek, the Adjutant General for the State of Montana and Commander of the Montana National Guard, Director General Air Operations of the SLAF, Air Vice Marshal Lasitha Sumanweera, Base Commander of SLAF Base Katunayake, Air Vice Marshal Deshapriya Silva and other participants of the exercise, along with the members of the Montana National Guard.