The SLAF ceremonially launched the Third Edition of the Air and Space Power Doctrine yesterday (02 March 2026) at the Astra Cinema, SLAF Base Katunayake, during the Air Force Day celebrations. The first copy of the doctrine was handed over to the Commander of the SLAF, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, by Director General Planning, Air Vice Marshal Deshapriya Silva. The occasion was attended by the Director General Air Operations, Air Vice Marshal Dhammika Dias and the Commandant of the SLAF Academy and member of the Doctrine Revision Committee, Air Commodore Amal Perera. The SLAF first introduced its formal doctrinal framework in 2018, providing a foundation for the employment of air power in national security. The Second Edition, published in 2022, refined these principles by incorporating operational experience and global air power concepts. The latest edition further expands the scope, addressing evolving security challenges and formally integrating space operations for the first time. 

This edition emphasizes Sri Lanka’s national interests and regional security, with particular focus on Maritime Domain Awareness, recognizing the vital role of the country’s sea lanes. For the first time, the doctrine formally incorporates Space Operations, acknowledging the significance of space-based capabilities in communication, navigation, intelligence and surveillance. By combining air and space perspectives, strengthening the readiness to meet emerging challenges and contribute to regional stability.

The Third Edition was developed through close collaboration with national and international experts. The former Director General & CEO of the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies, Dr. P. Sanath Panawennage and the Senior Lecturer at the University of South Wales, Dr. Leshan Uggalle provided key expertise in shaping the space operations component. The Institute for Security Governance (ISG) of the United States also provided professional guidance and strategic insight.