Sri Lanka receives Beechcraft from Australia to strengthen air operations

Pic by Nimalsiri Edirisinghe 

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya 

The addition of the modern twin-engine turboprop aircraft to Sri Lanka Air Force will play a crucial role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s efforts to combat maritime threats, including drug trafficking and human smuggling, while also supporting disaster relief in the country and search operations in the Indian Ocean.  

The Australian government officially handed over a Beechcraft King Air 350 aircraft to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) yesterday, marking a significant boost to SLAF’s air operations.  

Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa said that this grant from the Royal Australian Air Force will enhance Sri Lanka’s maritime surveillance, disaster relief, and air mobility capabilities.   

He emphasized the strategic importance of Indian Ocean security for Sri Lanka’s sovereignty, noting that the aircraft would significantly contribute to maritime domain awareness in the region.  

“We face challenges such as drug trafficking and human smuggling in the Indian Ocean. With this new Beechcraft, the SLAF will be better equipped to counter these threats and assist in search and rescue operations, as well as disaster response efforts,” the Commander added.   

The induction ceremony was attended by Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha, Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Paul Stephens, and Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, Commander of the Joint Agency Task Force Operation Sovereign Borders.   

The Beechcraft King Air 350, now assigned to the No. 03 Maritime Squadron at the SLAF Academy in China Bay, is a crucial addition to Sri Lanka’s maritime surveillance efforts.   

Air Marshal Rajapaksa expressed his gratitude for the gift, highlighting the strengthened security partnership between Sri Lanka and Australia. “This aircraft not only enhances our maritime security capabilities but also reinforces the close bond between our nations. We are proud to continue supporting regional security with Australia, our long-standing partner,” he said.   

In addition to its operational role, the Beechcraft King Air 350 will provide training opportunities for SLAF personnel.   

Rear Admiral Brett Sonter praised the collaborative effort, stating, “This capability upgrade goes beyond just hardware. It’s about contributing to the training and development of the next generation of SLAF personnel, equipping them with new skills through this vital asset.”  

He said that by working together to address shared challenges, Sri Lanka and Australia can overcome many obstacles. “Both countries remain resolute in stopping those involved in illegal maritime activities,” Rear Admiral Sonter added.