INDIAN AIR FORCE MI‑17 CREW DEPARTS AFTER RELIEF ASSISTANCE IN SRI LANKA
The Indian Air Force (IAF) MI‑17 helicopter crew departed today (14 December 2025), after providing humanitarian support in Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah. Their mission assisted in the transport and delivery of relief supplies to affected areas.
During their deployment, the crew coordinated closely with SLAF air operations to support ongoing relief and recovery efforts.
Representing the SLAF at the departure ceremony were senior Air Force officers, including the Chief of Staff of the SLAF, Air Vice Marshal Lasitha Sumanaweera who thanked the IAF personnel on behalf of the SLAF for their innumerable assistance.
The Defence Attaché representing the High Commission of India to Sri Lanka, Captain M Anand was also present at the occasion. The support provided by the IAF MI-17 crew strengthened cooperation between the SLAF and its neighbouring country, contributing to timely relief operations for communities impacted by Cyclone Ditwah.
During their deployment, the crew coordinated closely with SLAF air operations to support ongoing relief and recovery efforts.
Representing the SLAF at the departure ceremony were senior Air Force officers, including the Chief of Staff of the SLAF, Air Vice Marshal Lasitha Sumanaweera who thanked the IAF personnel on behalf of the SLAF for their innumerable assistance.
The Defence Attaché representing the High Commission of India to Sri Lanka, Captain M Anand was also present at the occasion. The support provided by the IAF MI-17 crew strengthened cooperation between the SLAF and its neighbouring country, contributing to timely relief operations for communities impacted by Cyclone Ditwah.