Sri Lanka Aviation Unit deployed under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) continues to play a vital role in maintaining peace and stability within Sector East, the largest sector of the country. The unit conducts a wide spectrum of air operations, including troop transport, insertion and extraction missions, armed air patrols, Quick Reaction Force deployment on request, Search and Rescue (SAR), CASEVAC/MEDEVAC, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, observer and monitoring tasks, as well as aerial fire support.

The 11th Aviation Contingent of Sri Lanka Air Force was deployed to MINUSCA on 21 January 2026, marking the continuation of Sri Lanka’s professional contribution to United Nations peacekeeping efforts in the Central African Republic.

The Change of Command Ceremony of the Sri Lanka Aviation Unit took place yesterday (28 January 2026) at the contingent location in Bria. The formal Handing Over/Taking Over Parade was conducted in keeping with military traditions and customs.

During the ceremony, the outgoing Contingent Commander of the 10th Aviation Contingent, Group Captain DUE De Silva RSP and Bar, USP, MSc (Def & Strat Stu), psc, formally handed over command to Group Captain AR Pathirage (WWV and Bar, RSP and Bar, USP, Pg Dip (Def Mgt),  who assumed duties as the Contingent Commander of the 11th Aviation Contingent. Following the successful completion of the traditional parade, Group Captain Pathirage officially took over command of the Sri Lanka Aviation Unit in MINUSCA.