SLAF Sends Fresh Air Crew to MINUSCA Mission

The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has completed the rotation of its aviation personnel assigned to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), with the 11th Aviation Contingent departing the country wednesday morning (21) as the 10th Contingent returned after a year-long deployment.

The newly deployed 11th Contingent is led by Group Captain Asiri Pathirage and consists of 110 members, including 22 officers—among them two female officers—and 88 airmen, with five airwomen. The contingent brings together a wide range of professional expertise required to fulfil aviation responsibilities under the UN mandate.

During its tour of duty, the unit will provide vital air support for peacekeeping and humanitarian operations, including troop transport, logistical resupply, and medical evacuation, while operating in demanding and high-risk conditions.

Earlier on the same day, 94 members of the outgoing 10th SLAF Aviation Contingent arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport, marking the completion of their deployment which commenced on December 6, 2024.

Throughout the mission period, the contingent accumulated over 1,500 flight hours, carrying out extensive aviation operations in support of MINUSCA’s objectives to enhance stability and protect civilians. Their contribution included numerous medical evacuation missions, some conducted during night hours, delivering urgent assistance to UN personnel and civilians in difficult operational environments.

The performance of the 10th Contingent received official recognition from the Mission’s Force Commander, with senior pilots earning individual awards for leadership and operational effectiveness.

In addition to operational achievements, the deployment generated economic benefits for Sri Lanka through flight-related revenue, personnel remuneration, and UN reimbursements for contingent-owned equipment.

Senior SLAF officials, including Director General Planning Air Vice Marshal Deshapriya Silva and Director of Foreign Affairs Group Captain Chandana Ratanayake, were present at the airport to welcome the returning personnel. They also conveyed their best wishes to the departing contingent, expressing confidence in their capability to successfully carry out their mission in the Central African Republic.