Saturday Jun 06, 2026
Saturday Jun 06, 2026
Saturday, 6 June 2026 00:29 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Provides 10 TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters at no cost
Transfer made under Excess Defence Articles Program
Sri Lanka to fund operation, maintenance and integration of aircraft
The US has transferred 10 TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) under its Excess Defence Articles Program in a move aimed at strengthening pilot training, fleet readiness, and disaster response capabilities.
In a post on ‘X’ earlier this week, the US Embassy in Colombo said the arrival of the helicopters reflects the longstanding defence partnership between the US and Sri Lanka and their shared commitment to disaster response and regional security.
The Embassy said the helicopters are built on the Bell 206 platform, which is widely used internationally and has an established record for reliability, safety, and durability. The platform is also supported by well-developed maintenance and training networks, which are expected to support the long-term operation of the aircraft.
According to the Embassy, the US is providing the 10 helicopters at no cost to Sri Lanka, while the Sri Lankan Government will bear the costs associated with operating, maintaining, and integrating the aircraft into the Air Force fleet.
The Embassy said the aircraft will enhance the SLAF’s pilot training capabilities and contribute to improved operational readiness, while also supporting humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions. The transfer comes amid growing defence and security cooperation between Sri Lanka and the US, including collaboration in maritime security, disaster preparedness, and military training.
