US transfers 10 TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters to Sri Lanka First batch of helicopters to arrive in February

The aircraft are expected to enhance SLAF’s capacity in training, surveillance and operational support missions

Globally, the platform is widely used for advanced pilot training, passenger transport, disaster response, maritime search and rescue, and humanitarian operations 

The United States Government is set to deliver the first batch of ten fully operational TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) in early February, marking a significant boost to the country’s aerial operational capabilities, the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington D.C said. 

The helicopters, transferred under a bilateral cooperation programme, are currently undergoing final preparations ahead of shipment to Sri Lanka. Once inducted, the aircraft are expected to enhance the SLAF’s capacity in training, surveillance and operational support missions.

According to the statement, the TH-57 Sea Ranger is a military variant of the Bell 206B-3 Jet Ranger, manufactured by Bell Helicopter Textron USA. The transfer addresses a long-standing operational requirement of the SLAF by adding versatile, general-purpose helicopters suitable for a wide range of missions.  

The TH-57 has a proven service record with the United States Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard since 1968, earning a strong reputation for reliability and adaptability. Globally, the platform is widely used for advanced pilot training, passenger transport, disaster response, maritime search and rescue, and humanitarian operations.   

The SLAF has operated Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopters since 1969, making the newly transferred aircraft well-suited to existing infrastructure, maintenance systems and pilot expertise.   

Highlighting the strategic importance of the transfer, Dr. Andrew Byers, Deputy Assistant Director of War said that the donation marks another important milestone in U.S. – Sri Lanka defence cooperation. He noted that the transfer follows previous support, including the handover of a former U.S. Coast Guard cutter and disaster relief assistance provided after Cyclone ‘Ditwah’.   

“These helicopters represent a new capability that will further strengthen cooperation between our two countries, particularly in areas of regional security, disaster preparedness and humanitarian assistance,” he said.