Ministry of Defence - Sri Lanka

Australia formally hands over Beechcraft
King Air 350 to Sri Lanka Air Force

October 30, 2024

A Beechcraft King Air 350 aircraft, donated by the Australian government was formally handed over to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) at SLAFHQ in Defence Headquarters Complex at Sri Jayewardenapura Kotte on Tuesday (Oct 29).

The SLAF media stated Commander of the SLAF Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa signed the legal documents to finalize the transfer of the aircraft. The Australian delegation led by Assistant Secretary for Regional Processing Ms. Shan Strugnell included Director of the Regional Processing Task Force Ms. Jodie Lewis and the First Secretary and Australian Border Force Coordinator Ms. Lalitha Kapur.

This handover marks a significant milestone in the ongoing defence cooperation between Sri Lanka and Australia. Both countries have a strong relationship and this latest transfer of military equipment underscores their commitment to regional security and stability.

The Chief of Staff of the SLAF, Australian Defence Advisor Colonel Amanda Johnston, members of the Board of Management along with other senior officials of the SLAF were present at the occasion.