NEW MI 17 V 5 HELICOPTER JOINS 9TH SLAF AVIATION CONTINGENT IN BRIA

The newly received MI-17 V-5 helicopter, designated SMH 581, arrived in Bria today (20 July 2024). This helicopter had previously arrived in Bangui on 30 June 2024, transported aboard an AN-124 aircraft.

To mark the occasion, a traditional water salute was performed at Bria airfield to officially welcome the SMH 581 Mi-17 V-5 helicopter to the 9th SLAF Aviation Contingent. Following its arrival, the helicopter was ferried to the SLAF Aviation Contingent Bria after completing a thorough assembly process, ground runs and air tests in Bangui. Moreover, it was inducted into the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) services following a series of rigorous inspections and audits.

The ferry flight was conducted by Wing Commander Kanchana Kodikara and Flight Lieutenant Janaka Kumara. Upon arrival, the Contingent Commander of the 9th Aviation Contingent, Group Captain Asanka Ratnayake, along with all officers and contingent members, extended a warm welcome to the crew at Bria airport.