New Air Chief to prioritise fleet capabilities

• SLAF to enhance the capability of UAVs and  cyber security activities

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya  

New Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana said that though there is no threat by enemy at present, improving the attack and air support capabilities of the Air Force is one of his key priorities during his tenure as Air Force chief.   

Speaking to media after assuming duties as the 18th Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force, Air Marshal Pathirana said that they are well-below the required standard of fighter capacity or attack capability.  
“In our fleet, we have three types of aircraft namely fighters, transport aircraft and transport helicopters. But in percentage wise, if we take the fighter capacity or attack capability, we are well-below the required standard. It is not that we have any enemy at present, we need to maintain our capabilities and capacities, which we had in the past. And in the transport aircraft and transport helicopters, I should say we are mid-way there. Flying is a costly practice. So we need to keep the current situation of the world and the country in mind, we have to have series of serious planning to make sure that we are going ahead with proper plans,” he said.  

The Commander said he intends to focus the efforts of the Air Force towards four main goals.   
“Firstly, improving the attack and air support capabilities of the Air Force with prompt maintenance of the aircraft fleet and with timely new acquisitions. Secondly, improving maritime surveillance and maritime disaster management capabilities of the Air Force with the deployment of cutting edge technologies to protect and preserve the resources within the exclusive economic zone for future generations,” he said.  

• SLAF to have series of serious planning to make sure that it is going ahead with proper plans