NO 5 FIGHTER SQUADRON CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE TO THE NATION
No 5 Fighter Squadron of the SLAF celebrated its 35th anniversary today (01 February 2026) with a series of events, celebrating over three decades of dedicated service, operational excellence and commitment to national security.
The Squadron was established on 1st February 1991, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the SLAF’s fighter capability. The formation commenced with the acquisition of two FT-5 jet trainer aircraft, laying the foundation for fighter pilot training and operational preparedness. In the year 2000, the Squadron’s combat potential was significantly enhanced with the induction of six Russian-origin MiG-27 ground attack aircraft and one MiG-23UB trainer, strengthening its air interdiction and low-level strike capability. Further enhancing the Squadron’s operational effectiveness, advanced F-7GS fighter aircraft were introduced in 2007 to effectively counter the emerging LTTE air threat, enabling the Squadron to play a decisive role during critical phases of the conflict.
The 35th Anniversary celebrations were held at the Squadron premises under the leadership of the Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Malinga Senanayake. In keeping with SLAF tradition and discipline, a ceremonial parade was conducted, symbolizing the Squadron’s proud heritage, professionalism and operational readiness. This was followed by a tree planting and a cake-cutting ceremony, attended by officers, airmen, airwomen and civilian staff.
As part of the anniversary programme and in line with the Sri Lanka Air Force’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement, No 5 Fighter Squadron also organized a Shramadana campaign on 22 January 2026 at the Lakshmi Children’s Development Centre. Officers and airmen actively participated in this initiative, contributing their time and effort to uplift the welfare of children.
The Squadron was established on 1st February 1991, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the SLAF’s fighter capability. The formation commenced with the acquisition of two FT-5 jet trainer aircraft, laying the foundation for fighter pilot training and operational preparedness. In the year 2000, the Squadron’s combat potential was significantly enhanced with the induction of six Russian-origin MiG-27 ground attack aircraft and one MiG-23UB trainer, strengthening its air interdiction and low-level strike capability. Further enhancing the Squadron’s operational effectiveness, advanced F-7GS fighter aircraft were introduced in 2007 to effectively counter the emerging LTTE air threat, enabling the Squadron to play a decisive role during critical phases of the conflict.
The 35th Anniversary celebrations were held at the Squadron premises under the leadership of the Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Malinga Senanayake. In keeping with SLAF tradition and discipline, a ceremonial parade was conducted, symbolizing the Squadron’s proud heritage, professionalism and operational readiness. This was followed by a tree planting and a cake-cutting ceremony, attended by officers, airmen, airwomen and civilian staff.
As part of the anniversary programme and in line with the Sri Lanka Air Force’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement, No 5 Fighter Squadron also organized a Shramadana campaign on 22 January 2026 at the Lakshmi Children’s Development Centre. Officers and airmen actively participated in this initiative, contributing their time and effort to uplift the welfare of children.