The United States has announced that it will provide 10 US Navy TH-57 (Bell 206 Sea Ranger) helicopters to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) at no cost for the equipment itself.
In a post on social media platform X, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said the helicopters, manufactured in Texas and known for their reliability, are being transferred under the US Excess Defence Articles (EDA) Programme. She added that the aircraft are expected to arrive in Sri Lanka in early 2026.
“So pleased that the United States can offer 10 @USNavy TH-57 (Bell 206 SEA RANGER) helicopters to @AirForceLK at no cost for the equipment itself. Crises like Cyclone Ditwah demonstrate the vital role helicopters play in search & rescue. These 10 helicopters will support the Sri Lanka Air Force by enhancing its fleet & pilot training for more effective disaster response,” Ambassador Chung said.
The transfer is expected to significantly strengthen Sri Lanka’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities, particularly in search and rescue operations during emergencies such as Cyclone Ditwah, while also enhancing pilot training and overall operational readiness of the Sri Lanka Air Force.
