SLAF USHERS IN THE NEW YEAR 2025
2:15pm on Wednesday 1st January 2025
On the first working day of 2025, the Sri Lanka Air Force Headquarters held its first day working parade, marking the commencement of the New Year. The Chief of Staff, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Wickremaratne took the salute at the parade, which was attended by members of the Air Force Headquarters, SLAF Station Sri Jayewardenepura.
Following the parade, the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, delivered his New Year's address to the Air Force Board of Management, all officers, other ranks and civilian staff. The address was streamed live to all SLAF establishments from the Air Force Headquarters. Commencing his speech, the Commander extended warm wishes to all SLAF members and their families. In his address, the Commander emphasized the importance of discipline, integrity and professional excellence among all personnel. He stated that in 2025, the primary focus will be to safeguard Sri Lankan airspace by integrating advanced technologies, including air defence systems, drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, in line with new operational strategies.
The Commander highlighted several key achievements in the Air Force over the past year, particularly in terms of aircraft inductions. Notably, the Beechcraft 360ER and Beechcraft 350 aircraft were added to the fleet, strengthening operations against transnational crimes and maritime security threats. Additionally, the Air Force is set to receive eight TH-57 helicopters (Military Version of Bell-206) from the United States and an FT-7 fighter aircraft from Pakistan, which will enhance the Air Force’s capabilities in 2025. The Commander also announced that the Kfir aircraft, upgraded to the C12 Generation, would be rejoined by the fleet to support maritime security operations.
Furthermore, the Commander outlined plans to upgrade the Air Force’s air defence and radar systems, including the procurement of new air defence weapons and drone defence kits to strengthen its strategic capabilities. Also mentioned, that the Air Force has also been actively involved in several initiatives to support the government’s economic growth, especially in the tourism sector. These projects include the construction of the Shantipura Viewpoint, the Sigiriya Golf Course and the Koggala Adventure Club.
The Commander also stated the development of a ‘Suraksha’ Care Home in Katunayake to assist serving and retired personnel in need of care due to illness or old age. A major achievement highlighted by the Commander was the completion of the Children's Ward Complex at Apeksha Hospital, coordinated by the Seva Vanitha Unit, which has greatly elevated the prestige of the Sri Lanka Air Force and contributed to fulfilling its social responsibilities.
Following the speech, the Commander and all members of the Air Force Headquarters participated in the multi-religious ceremony, a significant tradition that brought together diverse faiths within the Sri Lanka Air Force. It focused on ensuring the well-being and success of the entire Air Force and its personnel throughout 2025.
The Commander highlighted several key achievements in the Air Force over the past year, particularly in terms of aircraft inductions. Notably, the Beechcraft 360ER and Beechcraft 350 aircraft were added to the fleet, strengthening operations against transnational crimes and maritime security threats. Additionally, the Air Force is set to receive eight TH-57 helicopters (Military Version of Bell-206) from the United States and an FT-7 fighter aircraft from Pakistan, which will enhance the Air Force’s capabilities in 2025. The Commander also announced that the Kfir aircraft, upgraded to the C12 Generation, would be rejoined by the fleet to support maritime security operations.
Furthermore, the Commander outlined plans to upgrade the Air Force’s air defence and radar systems, including the procurement of new air defence weapons and drone defence kits to strengthen its strategic capabilities. Also mentioned, that the Air Force has also been actively involved in several initiatives to support the government’s economic growth, especially in the tourism sector. These projects include the construction of the Shantipura Viewpoint, the Sigiriya Golf Course and the Koggala Adventure Club.
The Commander also stated the development of a ‘Suraksha’ Care Home in Katunayake to assist serving and retired personnel in need of care due to illness or old age. A major achievement highlighted by the Commander was the completion of the Children's Ward Complex at Apeksha Hospital, coordinated by the Seva Vanitha Unit, which has greatly elevated the prestige of the Sri Lanka Air Force and contributed to fulfilling its social responsibilities.
Following the speech, the Commander and all members of the Air Force Headquarters participated in the multi-religious ceremony, a significant tradition that brought together diverse faiths within the Sri Lanka Air Force. It focused on ensuring the well-being and success of the entire Air Force and its personnel throughout 2025.
First Working Day Parade
Commander's Address
Multi Religious Ceremony
