NEW PARKING HANGAR DECLARED OPEN AT NO. 3 MARITIME SQUADRON, SLAF ACADEMY CHINA BAY
The SLAF marked another significant milestone in its ongoing infrastructure development programme with the ceremonial opening of a newly constructed Parking Hangar at No. 3 Maritime Squadron, SLAF Academy China Bay, today (27 April 2026). The occasion was graced by the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe.
No. 3 Maritime Squadron, re-established in 2019, has steadily evolved into a vital operational squadron contributing to the nation’s Maritime surveillance and security framework. Over the years, the Squadron’s fleet has expanded in response to increasing operational demands. The induction of two new King Air Beechcraft in 2024 further enhanced its capabilities, while simultaneously creating an urgent requirement for additional aircraft parking facilities, as the Squadron previously possessed hangar space for only two aircraft.
Recognizing this operational necessity, under the directives of the Commander of the Air Force, it was decided to relocate two Pucara hangars from SLAF Base Vavuniya to SLAF Academy China Bay to augment the Squadron’s infrastructure. The project commenced in July 2025 under the planning and supervision of the Directorate of Civil Engineering, guided by the then Director General Civil Engineering.
The ceremonial proceedings commenced with the arrival of the Commander of the Air Force, who was received by the Commandant of SLAF Academy China Bay and Commanding Officer of No. 3 Maritime Squadron. The event featured the unveiling of the commemorative plaque, followed by an inspection of the newly established hangar facility. Thereafter, the Commander engaged in a brief interaction session, followed by refreshments and an official group photograph prior to departure.
No. 3 Maritime Squadron, re-established in 2019, has steadily evolved into a vital operational squadron contributing to the nation’s Maritime surveillance and security framework. Over the years, the Squadron’s fleet has expanded in response to increasing operational demands. The induction of two new King Air Beechcraft in 2024 further enhanced its capabilities, while simultaneously creating an urgent requirement for additional aircraft parking facilities, as the Squadron previously possessed hangar space for only two aircraft.
Recognizing this operational necessity, under the directives of the Commander of the Air Force, it was decided to relocate two Pucara hangars from SLAF Base Vavuniya to SLAF Academy China Bay to augment the Squadron’s infrastructure. The project commenced in July 2025 under the planning and supervision of the Directorate of Civil Engineering, guided by the then Director General Civil Engineering.
The ceremonial proceedings commenced with the arrival of the Commander of the Air Force, who was received by the Commandant of SLAF Academy China Bay and Commanding Officer of No. 3 Maritime Squadron. The event featured the unveiling of the commemorative plaque, followed by an inspection of the newly established hangar facility. Thereafter, the Commander engaged in a brief interaction session, followed by refreshments and an official group photograph prior to departure.
The ceremony was attended by Chie of Staff, members of the Air Force Board of Management, Commandant along with other senior officers and other ranks.
