Australia – Sri Lanka relationship continues to soar

Australia’s and Sri Lanka’s commitment to countering maritime security threats reaches new heights with the gifting of a former Royal Australian Air Force Beechcraft King Air 350 to the Sri Lanka Air Force at a special ceremony in Colombo today. Legally handed over to the Sri Lanka Air Force in late October, the modern twin-engine turboprop aircraft will substantially enhance Sri Lanka’s aerial maritime surveillance capability to combat transnational crime, including people smuggling.

Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa highlighted that the gift from Australia demonstrates the mutual efforts of both countries in maintaining the security of the Indian Ocean region. “I am sincerely grateful for the King Air 350 aircraft – a gift that not only bolsters our ability to combat activities that threaten our maritime security, but importantly underscores the bond that exists between our nations. We are proud to continue supporting regional security efforts with our long standing partner, Australia,” Air Marshal Rajapaksa said.

Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremonial gifting at the Ratmalana Air Force Base, Commander Joint Agency Task Force Operation Sovereign Borders, Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, RAN said that today’s event is yet another display of the gold standard that defines the Australia-Sri Lanka relationship. “Today’s ceremonial gifting is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our enduring relationship. Equally important to note is that by working together to face shared challenges, we can overcome many obstacles. Australia and Sri Lanka remain resolute in stopping anyone involved in illegal maritime activities,” Rear Admiral Sonter said. In addition to supporting maritime security efforts, the Beechcraft King Air 350 aircraft will also provide valuable training opportunities for Sri Lanka Air Force personnel. “A capability uplift such as this isn’t just limited to hardware, there is a significant human element too. We are proud to gift the aircraft to the Sri Lanka Air Force. Equally this capability will contribute to the training and development of the next generation of Sri Lankan aviators,” Rear Admiral Sonter added.