
SRI LANKA AIR FORCE CELEBRATES 74 YEARS OF SKY BOUND EXCELLENCE
12:16pm on Sunday 2nd March 2025
The Sri Lanka Air Force celebrated the 74th anniversary today (02 March 2025) with all SLAF establishments. The proceedings commenced with the Guard of Honour which was held at Air Force Headquarters under the auspices of the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe.
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 Computer Engineering and Media Division. 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 74th anniversary, he stated the importance of human resources, the Commander urged all ranks to fulfill their duties with excellence, ensure ethical use of state funds and minimize waste. Plans are in place to enhance welfare programmes, improving the living standards of SLAF personnel.
Strengthening air defence remains a priority, with upgrades to the fleet, including the acquisition of 10 TH-57 aircraft from the USA and an FT-7 fighter from Pakistan. Personnel were also encouraged to support the national ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative.
Finally the Commander expressed gratitude to the families of SLAF members for their support and reaffirmed confidence in the continued dedication of the Air Force in safeguarding the nation.



















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 Computer Engineering and Media Division. 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 74th anniversary, he stated the importance of human resources, the Commander urged all ranks to fulfill their duties with excellence, ensure ethical use of state funds and minimize waste. Plans are in place to enhance welfare programmes, improving the living standards of SLAF personnel.
Strengthening air defence remains a priority, with upgrades to the fleet, including the acquisition of 10 TH-57 aircraft from the USA and an FT-7 fighter from Pakistan. Personnel were also encouraged to support the national ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative.
Finally the Commander expressed gratitude to the families of SLAF members for their support and reaffirmed confidence in the continued dedication of the Air Force in safeguarding the nation.


















