US gifts Beechcraft King Air 360ER aircraft to Sri Lanka worth 19 million USD

A Beechcraft King Air 360ER aircraft, donated by the United States to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), was formally handed over during a ceremony at SLAF base, Katunayake on Thursday (Oct 10).

Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) graced the induction ceremony as the chief guest. US Ambassador in Colombo, H.E. Julie Chung and Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, Admiral Stephen Koehler, were also present at the occasion.

SL Air Force Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa received the distinguished guests on their arrival at the venue.

The aircraft is funded by the US Department of Defence's Building Partner Capacity program. It is fitted with Maritime Domain Awareness equipment systems including a Synthetic Aperture Radar and an advanced Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) system which greatly enhances the maritime surveillance capabilities.

The ceremony saw the new aircraft being welcomed with a Water Salute. Later the Defence Secretary along with the US Ambassador and Admiral Koehler, accompanied by Air Force Commander inspected the aircraft.

Speaking at the event, Defence Secretary thanked the US government for this valuable gift and said that it would significantly enhance our maritime patrol capabilities, search and rescue operations, and our capacity to respond swiftly to humanitarian crises.

"The induction of this aircraft to the SLAF is not just about acquiring new hardware; it's about elevating our capabilities, our readiness, and our commitment to regional peace and stability," he said.

Senior Air Force officers, US embassy officials and other distinguish invitees were also present at the occasion.