In a boost to defence cooperation, the United States will transfer 10 US Navy TH-57 helicopters to Sri Lanka, enhancing the island nation’s ability to respond to disasters
Colombo: Sri Lanka is set to receive 10 US Navy TH-57 helicopters from the United States under the Excess Defence Articles Programme, strengthening its disaster response and pilot training capabilities.
US confirms helicopter transfer to Sri Lanka
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US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung announced on Thursday that the United States will transfer 10 TH-57 (Bell 206 Sea Ranger) helicopters to the Sri Lanka Air Force. The helicopters are manufactured in Texas and built for reliability.
The aircraft are being provided under the Excess Defence Articles (EDA) Programme, with no cost for the equipment itself. The helicopters are expected to arrive in Sri Lanka in early 2026.
Focus on disaster response and training
Highlighting the importance of rotary-wing aircraft during emergencies, Chung said recent crises such as Cyclone Ditwah underscored the vital role helicopters play in search and rescue operations.
The helicopters will enhance the Sri Lanka Air Force’s operational fleet and support pilot training, enabling more effective responses during natural disasters and humanitarian missions.
Boost to defence cooperation
The transfer reflects growing defence and security cooperation between the United States and Sri Lanka, particularly in areas related to disaster preparedness, humanitarian assistance, and capacity building.
The Sri Lanka Air Force is expected to deploy the helicopters primarily for training, emergency response, and rescue operations, improving readiness during climate-related and natural disasters.
(With PTI inputs)
Published: 08 Jan 2026, 08:16 pm IST
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