Wings of a Nation The Sri Lanka Air Force Marks a Diamond Jubilee
By Thaliba Cader
Seventy-five years ago, in 1951, the newly independent nation of Ceylon took a decisive step toward safeguarding its sovereignty. Under Prime Minister D. S. Senanayake, the country established its own air arm, then known as the Royal Ceylon Air Force, with guidance and technical support from the Royal Air Force.
From those modest beginnings, the institution that is today the Sri Lanka Air Force has evolved into a disciplined and professional force that has served the nation through periods of war, uncertainty, and peace.
In its formative years, the Air Force focused on training and transition. Young Ceylonese recruits learned to fly and maintain aircraft while gradually assuming operational control from foreign advisers. By the mid 1950s, under Prime Minister S. W. R. D. Bandaranaike, British bases were formally handed over. The transfer marked a clear movement from dependency to sovereign command of national airspace.
The institution would face its first major internal security test during the 1971 insurrection and later during the long civil conflict that defined much of the late twentieth century. With limited resources but sustained determination, the Air Force expanded its fleet, strengthened its technical expertise, and adapted to rapidly changing operational demands. Fighter aircraft, helicopter gunships, and transport platforms became essential to supporting ground operations and protecting territorial integrity.
By the conclusion of the conflict in 2009, the SLAF had matured into a battle tested and technologically capable force. When peace returned, the mission broadened. Combat operations gradually gave way to humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and international peacekeeping. Aircraft were deployed for flood rescue missions within Sri Lanka, relief operations abroad including assistance to Nepal, and United Nations mandates in Africa. The transition demonstrated that air power could serve not only national defense but also human security and regional cooperation.
Today, as the Sri Lanka Air Force marks seventy-five years of service, it does so with a forward-looking vision grounded in operational readiness, modernization, and public engagement.
Strategic Direction and Fleet Enhancement
The official 75th Anniversary program was unveiled on 18 February 2026 at Air Force Headquarters during a press briefing attended by representatives of print, electronic, and digital media institutions.
Acting Director Media Wing Commander Sanjeewa Nanayakkara addressed the gathering, while SLAF Media Spokeswoman Squadron Leader Yvonne Witharana moderated the proceedings. The session underscored the importance of transparent engagement with media partners who play a vital role in informing the public about the Air Force’s responsibilities and initiatives.
The first segment of the briefing, titled “SLAF 75th Anniversary and the Way Forward,” was chaired by Deputy Chief of Staff Air Vice Marshal Gihan Senevirathne. During this session, the strategic trajectory of the Air Force was clearly articulated. Emphasis was placed on maintaining operational readiness, enhancing rapid mobility, and ensuring technological advancement aligned with contemporary security requirements.
A key announcement was the planned induction of ten Bell 206 TH 57 helicopters. These aircraft are expected to significantly strengthen pilot training capabilities and improve operational preparedness. In addition to new acquisitions, ongoing upgrades to the existing fleet were highlighted as part of a comprehensive modernization effort designed to reinforce core competencies and extend service life across multiple platforms. Leadership emphasized that the seventy fifth anniversary is not merely commemorative. It is a moment for renewal, innovation, and disciplined institutional growth.
75th Anniversary Exhibition and Air Display
A central highlight of the anniversary calendar will be the 75th Anniversary Exhibition and Air Display, scheduled for 6, 7, and 8 March 2026 at SLAF Base Ratmalana. This segment of the briefing was chaired by Director General Planning Air Vice Marshal Deshapriya Silva and attended by Chairman of the Organizing Committee and Base Commander Air Commodore Dinesh Jayaweera.
The three-day programme will feature a grand air show alongside an educational exhibition showcasing aeronautical engineering, aviation technology, and the technical capabilities of the Air Force. Organizers have stated that the event is designed not only as a display of aerial skill but also as an educational platform aimed at inspiring young people and promoting a deeper public understanding of aviation science and national defense. Accessibility has been prioritized. Entrance tickets are priced at Rs. 200 per individual. Schoolchildren attending in uniform will be granted concessionary access at Rs. 50 per head. The pricing structure reflects a deliberate effort to encourage student participation and broaden educational outreach.
The 27th Guwan Hamuda Papedi Sawariya
The 27th edition of the Guwan Hamuda Papedi Sawariya was formally introduced during the briefing by Chairman of Air Force Cycling and Director General Aeronautical Engineering Air Vice Marshal Indika Wickremasinghe.
The prestigious cycling event will take place on 27, 28 February, and 1 March 2026. It is organized in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Cycling Federation and adheres to both national and international standards.
This year’s race will feature competitors from India, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates, elevating its competitive profile and strengthening international sporting ties.
The men’s race will unfold across three demanding stages. The first stage on 27 February will begin in Negombo and conclude in Puttalam, covering 127.5 kilometers. The second stage on 28 February will proceed from Puttalam to Dambulla, spanning 139.9 kilometers. The final stage on 1 March will commence in Dambulla and finish at Defense Headquarters Akuregoda, covering 141.7 kilometers.
The women’s race will also be held on 1 March, beginning in Meerigama and concluding at Defense Headquarters, Akuregoda. Representatives of sponsoring institutions were present at the media briefing, and sponsorship cheques were symbolically handed over to the Chairman of Air Force Cycling. The event benefits from broad corporate support and official media partnerships, including Sirasa TV and TV 1, ensuring nationwide coverage. Through this race, the Air Force reinforces values of endurance, discipline, and sportsmanship while strengthening its connection with communities across the country.
“Symphony of Wings” Musical Concert
A cultural highlight of the anniversary year will be the musical evening titled “Symphony of Wings,” organized by the SLAF Seva Vanitha Unit. This segment of the press briefing was chaired by Chairman Organizing Committee and Director General Constructions Engineering Air Vice Marshal Vajira Senadeera. Also in attendance were Secretary Organizing Committee Group Captain Eranda Geeganage, Secretary SLAF Seva Vanitha Unit Wing Commander Lilangi Randeni, and Commanding Officer Performing Arts Wing Squadron Leader Gayan Joseph.
The concert will be held on 28 March 2026 from 7.00 pm onwards at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre.
The programme will feature performances by the Air Force Eagles Rock Band alongside several popular Sri Lankan singers. Beyond entertainment, the event carries a defined welfare purpose. Proceeds will support initiatives of the Seva Vanitha Unit aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of Air Force personnel and addressing deserving social welfare needs within the wider community.
Ticket pricing has been structured according to seating categories. The Standard Category is priced at Rs. 3,000, the Gold Category at Rs. 5,000, the Premium Category at Rs. 7,500, and the VIP Category at Rs. 10,000. Online tickets are available through Tickets Ministry, and reservations can be made by contacting Archana on 0777 595100.
Importantly, individuals who purchase concert tickets valued at Rs. 5,000 and above will receive complimentary entrance to the 75th Anniversary Exhibition and Air Display at SLAF Base Ratmalana. This integrated approach encourages participation across multiple commemorative events.
A Milestone Year
The seventy fifth anniversary of the Sri Lanka Air Force represents more than a ceremonial landmark. It reflects an institutional journey from a fledgling post-independence air arm to a modern force committed to operational excellence, humanitarian outreach, and community engagement.
Through exhibitions, sporting competitions, and cultural programs, the 2026 celebrations aim to honor the legacy of past generations while inspiring future ones. The Air Force leadership has emphasized that the anniversary year is both reflective and forward looking, grounded in disciplined service and strategic renewal.
Members of the public are invited to participate in the scheduled events and to support the initiatives organized in commemoration of this significant national milestone. Further information and updates are available on the official website of the Sri Lanka Air Force at www.airforce.lk.
