SLAF conducts first test flight of upgraded Kfir C12 fighter aircraft

Colombo, June 11 (Daily Mirror) - The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) today successfully conducted the first test flight of its upgraded Kfir C12 fighter aircraft at SLAF Base Katunayake, marking a major milestone in the modernization of the country's fighter fleet.

The test flight was carried out following the successful completion of an extensive programme of ground validation, systems integration and technical testing under the Kfir modernization project.

The flight was witnessed by Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Sampath Thuyacontha and Commander of the Air Force Bandu Edirisinghe, together with senior Air Force officers and representatives involved in the upgrade programme.

Operated by No. 10 Fighter Squadron at SLAF Base Katunayake, the Kfir fighter aircraft, known within the Air Force as the "Lion Cub," has been a key component of Sri Lanka's air defence capability since entering service in 1996.

The aircraft played a significant role in air operations during the humanitarian operations that concluded in 2009 and has remained one of the most capable combat platforms in the Air Force inventory.

The modernization programme is being implemented in partnership with (Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), with SLAF technical personnel working alongside Israeli specialists throughout the upgrade process.

The project covers the modernization of four Kfir C2/C7 fighter aircraft and one TC2 trainer aircraft to the advanced Kfir C12 standard. In addition to enhancing combat capabilities, the programme is expected to extend the operational lifespan of the fleet through structural refurbishment, improved maintenance systems and advanced technological integration.

The upgraded aircraft features a modern glass cockpit and enhanced avionics and mission systems designed to improve situational awareness, navigation, communications, precision weapon delivery, mission planning and post-mission analysis.

According to the Air Force, these upgrades will reduce pilot workload while improving operational effectiveness and mission flexibility.

Once fully operational, the Kfir C12 fleet will provide enhanced air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities, transforming the aircraft into a more versatile multirole combat platform capable of meeting evolving operational requirements.

The successful first flight represents a key step in the modernization programme and paves the way for further flight testing and evaluation before the upgraded aircraft enters full operational service.

Upon completion of the project, the upgraded Kfir fleet is expected to strengthen Sri Lanka's ability to protect its airspace, maritime approaches and territorial boundaries while enhancing overall air defence readiness.