Sri Lanka acquires Chengdu J-7 aircraft from Pakistan
Sri Lanka is set to bolster its air force with the acquisition of American
Bell 206 helicopters and a Pakistani Chengdu J-7 aircraft. These additions aim
to enhance the country’s military aviation capabilities.
The procurement includes eight Bell 206 helicopters in their TH-57 Sea
Ranger military configuration from Washington, D.C., and a single Chinese-made
Chengdu J-7 in its FT-7 export trainer variant from Islamabad.
Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa confirmed
that the Bell helicopters are scheduled for delivery later this year, according
to Colombo-based Daily Mirror. Meanwhile, the FT-7, secured as a grant
during bilateral discussions with Pakistan, is expected to arrive soon.
Read More JF-17
fighter jet gaining traction in the developing world
“By acquiring modern drone security units and advanced air defense weapons,
the SLAF has initiated a program in collaboration with the government to
upgrade both the air defense and radar systems,” Rajapaksa stated. He also
highlighted the Air Force’s efforts to align with the government’s push to
enhance the tourism sector, introducing programs to support economic growth.
Recent Fleet Enhancements
This latest acquisition follows the induction of a Beechcraft King Air 360ER
last year, procured through a contract with US-based Textron Aviation in 2022.
Additionally, Sri Lanka received a Beechcraft King Air 350 from the Royal
Australian Air Force to strengthen maritime security cooperation across the
Indian Ocean.
Sri Lanka is also collaborating with Israel Aerospace Industries to
modernize its fleet of Kfir fighter jets, upgrading them to the latest C12
configuration by 2025.
Further bolstering its airborne capabilities, the South Asian nation
recently accepted two Harbin Y-12 aircraft from China to enhance tactical cargo
and personnel transportation.
Read More Bangladesh
reportedly seeking ballistic missiles from Pakistan
These strategic investments reflect Sri Lanka’s commitment to modernizing
its air force and improving its military readiness amid regional security
challenges.
Source: https://thedefensepost.com/