INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
In a momentous ceremony held today (Dec.05), the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) marked a significant chapter in the history with the ceremonial
induction of two Harbin Y-12 IV aircraft at SLAF Base in Ratmalana.The ceremony was graced by State Minister of Defence Premitha Bandara
Originally equipped with eight Y-12 II aircraft (SCL 851 to SCL 859) inducted in 1987, these aircraft played a pivotal role in various air
operations during the local theatre of war.The formal proceedings commenced with the signing of documents symbolizing the transfer of the
Harbin Y-12 aircraft to the Sri Lanka Air Force.Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa and Mr
Den Ling from China National Aero Technology Import - Export Cooperation presided over this key moment, marking the official
handover.Addressing the gathering, Air Force Chief expressed gratitude for the strategic partnership and elaborating the significance of the
memento was presented to the chief guest, State Minister Tennakoon, to commemorate the historical milestone
Meanwhile, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa extended his gratitude to the State Minister of Defence, acknowledging the untiring support in
advancing the capabilities of the Sri Lanka Air Force.State Minister Tennakoon expressed pride in witnessing this significant occasion and
security and stability.This significant occasion was attended by Sagala Ratnayake, the Senior Advisor to the President on National Security
and Chief of Presidential Staff; General Kamal Gunaratne (Retd), Secretary to the Ministry of Defence; General Shavendra Silva, Chief of
Defence Staff; Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, Commander of the Navy, as well as the Chief of Staff of the SLAF, members of the Air Force
Board of Management, officials of the Chinese Embassy in Colombo, members of the CATIC from China and representatives of CATIC Sri Lanka,
senior officers of the SLAF and other officials.
