SLAF Rotates MINUSCA Air Crews as New Contingent Departs

by Zulfick Farzan 22-01-2026 | 4:30 PM

COLOMBO (News 1st); The 11th Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Aviation Contingent assigned to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) departed the island last (21) morning, as the main element of the 10th Contingent returned home after a year of intensive air operations.

The 11th Contingent, commanded by Group Captain Asiri Pathirage, comprises 110 personnel - 22 officers (including two lady officers) and 88 airmen (including five airwomen) - representing the full spectrum of professional competencies required under the UN mandate.

The unit will undertake aviation support for peacekeeping and humanitarian tasks, including air mobility, medical evacuation, and logistics, in a challenging operational environment.

Earlier the same day, the 10th SLAF Aviation Contingent - 94 personnel - touched down at Bandaranaike International Airport, concluding a deployment that began on 6 December 2024.

Over twelve months, the contingent logged more than 1,500 flying hours, executing extensive air operations in support of MINUSCA’s stabilization and protection efforts.

During its mission, the 10th Contingent conducted a series of medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) sorties, including night operations, providing time‑critical assistance to UN personnel and civilians in adverse conditions. The unit’s performance drew formal commendation from the Mission’s Force Commander, with individual awards presented to senior pilots for leadership and operational excellence.

Beyond its operational footprint, the deployment delivered a measurable economic dividend to Sri Lanka through revenue generated by flight operations, personnel earnings, and UN reimbursement for contingent‑owned equipment.

Director General Planning, Air Vice Marshal Deshapriya Silva, and Director Foreign Affairs, Group Captain Chandana Ratanayake, joined senior SLAF officials at BIA to welcome the returning aircrew of the 10th Contingent. They also extended best wishes to the departing 11th Contingent, expressing confidence in their professional readiness and mission success in the Central African Republic.