The 11th Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Aviation Contingent, part of the United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), left Sri Lanka this morning, the 21st. This group includes 22 officers, two of whom are women, and 88 airmen, with five airwomen. They are led by Group Captain Asiri Pathirage. The SLAF mentioned that the team is equipped with all the necessary skills to fulfill their duties under the UN's mission. On the same day, the main group of the 10th Sri Lanka Air Force Aviation Contingent returned to Sri Lanka after a year of service in the Central African Republic, having started their deployment on December 6, 2024. Throughout their mission, the 10th Contingent conducted extensive air operations for peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts, totaling over 1,500 flying hours. They also performed several medical evacuations, including night missions, providing urgent help to UN staff and civilians in challenging situations. Their efforts were recognized by the Mission's Force Commander, who commended the entire contingent, with special recognition given to senior pilots for their leadership and skills. This deployment also helped generate significant income for Sri Lanka through flight operations, salaries, and reimbursements for equipment owned by the contingent. At Bandaranaike International Airport, Director General Planning Air Vice Marshal Deshapriya Silva, Director Foreign Affairs Group Captain Chandana Ratanayake, and other senior SLAF officials welcomed the returning 10th Contingent members. They also wished good luck to the departing 11th Contingent and expressed confidence in their success in the Central African Republic.
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