SRI AVIATION UNIT COMMEMORATES 12 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE IN MINUSCA MISSION
9:20pm on Friday 11th September 2026
Although the first Sri Lanka Aviation contingent was deployed on 09 September 2014, the Letter of Assist (LOA) was subsequently issued with effect from 15 September 2014, formally marking the commencement of Sri Lanka's aviation contribution to the MINUSCA mission. Since then, successive contingents of the Sri Lanka Air Force have continued to provide vital aviation support to the United Nations, maintaining a proud record of operational excellence and dedicated service in the Central African Republic.
The anniversary celebrations commenced with a working parade, symbolising the discipline, professionalism and operational readiness of Sri Lanka Air Force personnel. The parade was commanded by Group Captain Kasun Senevirathna, while Group Captain Asiri Pathirage graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
A tree planting campaign was conducted as part of the celebrations, followed by an All-Ranks Breakfast, fostering fellowship and camaraderie among contingent members.
Over the past 12 years, the Sri Lanka Aviation Unit has contributed significantly to the MINUSCA mandate, logging over 15,700 flying hours through operational flights, troop movements, reconnaissance, search and rescue, CASEVAC and MEDEVAC missions, as well as cargo transportation, including dangerous goods. The Unit has also conducted numerous high-risk CASEVAC missions, saving the lives of UN personnel and civilians in war-affected and volatile areas.
Notable recent operations include the evacuation of wounded UN personnel from Zemio in 2025 and the successful evacuation of 14 injured UN personnel and civilians from Am Dafok in June 2026 under challenging operational conditions.
Furthermore, demanding underslung operations conducted to recover UAVs in 2017 and 2018, together with air-to-ground engagements conducted twice in 2017 in support of UN troops during attacks by unknown armed groups, further highlighted the versatile operational capabilities, mission readiness and professionalism of the Sri Lanka Air Force Aviation contingent. The Unit's dedicated service and exceptional performance in demanding operational environments have also been commended and appreciated on numerous occasions by senior UN leadership.
The unit's contribution extends beyond the operational sphere, with Sri Lanka's participation in UN peacekeeping missions generating over USD 140 million in foreign exchange revenue, making a valuable contribution to the national economy while enhancing the international reputation and professional capabilities of the Sri Lanka Air Force.
In parallel with the anniversary celebrations, a Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activity was conducted by donating essential medical items to the Bria Regional Hospital, further strengthening relations with the local community.
The programme also featured a friendly cricket match, promoting teamwork and esprit de corps among contingent members, followed by an All-Ranks Lunch, bringing the entire contingent together to mark this special occasion.
The 12th Anniversary marks a significant milestone in the proud journey of the Sri Lanka Aviation Unit, reflecting the professionalism, courage, humanitarian commitment and operational excellence demonstrated by Sri Lankan aviators in support of the United Nations mission and their continued contribution to peace, security and the wellbeing of the people of the Central African Republic.
