The first MI-17 V5 helicopter of the Indian Air Force (IAF), deployed to support Sri Lanka’s disaster relief efforts following Cyclone Ditwa, departed the island on 06 December 2025. The second MI-17 V5 concluded its mission and returned to India this morning (08 December 2025), marking the completion of the IAF’s air support operations conducted in close coordination with the SLAF.

During their deployment, the IAF MI-17 V5 helicopters carried out vital humanitarian airlift missions, including the transport of essential relief supplies, evacuation of affected civilians and aerial support to rescue and relief operations in heavily impacted regions. Their contribution significantly enhanced Sri Lanka’s national disaster response during a period of urgent need.

The Director General Air Operations, Air Vice Marshal Dammika Dias of the SLAF was present to bid farewell to the first aircraft. A group of SLAF senior officers were in attendance this morning to see off the second aircraft and convey the SLAF’s appreciation to the IAF aircrew for their dedicated service and close cooperation throughout the mission.