Sri Lanka Air Force

The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) was established on March 2, 1951, as the Royal Ceylon Air Force, under British guidance following the country’s independence. Initially equipped with British aircraft, the SLAF’s primary role was internal security and support for ground forces. During the Sri Lankan Civil War (1983–2009), the Air Force played a crucial role in combat operations, reconnaissance, transport, and humanitarian missions. Today, the SLAF is a modern force with a fleet of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, engaged in national defense, disaster relief, and international peacekeeping missions.