The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) ceremoniously received two Harbin Y-12-IV aircraft at the SLAF Base in Ratmalana today (Nov. 05).

The formal proceedings commenced with the signing of documents symbolizing the transfer of the Harbin Y-12-IV 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.

Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China – Mr. Qi Zhenhong, State Minister of Defence – Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff, – Mr. Sagala Ratnayake, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence – General Kamal Gunaratne (Retd), Chief of Defence Staff – General Shavendra Silva, Commander of the Navy – Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, 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 graced the ceremony.

Addressing the gathering, Commander of the Air Force, expressed gratitude for the strategic partnership and elaborating the significance of the new additions to the Sri Lanka Air Force’s fleet. He emphasized the continued commitment to strengthening international collaborations, highlighting the value of the Harbin Y-12 IV aircraft in enhancing the Air Force’s operational capabilities.