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A former RAAF King Air 350 aircraft donated by Australia to the Sri Lanka Air Force has completed more than 400 flight hours and more than 100 missions since the transfer.
The former RAAF King Air 350 aircraft was gifted to the Sri Lanka Air Force by the Australian government in October last year.
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The aircraft, equipped with advanced electro-optical/infrared systems, has reportedly significantly boosted Sri Lanka’s capacity to conduct maritime surveillance and respond to search and rescue requirements.
Training Flight Commander at 32 Squadron, Squadron Leader Glenn Canfield, a qualified flying instructor with more than 9,000 hours of flying experience, ferried the aircraft to Sri Lanka.
“I delivered the Royal Australian Air Force King Air 350 to the Sri Lanka Air Force in October 2024, routing through Indonesia and Malaysia,” Squadron Leader Canfield said.
“Since arriving last year, the Sri Lanka Air Force has flown over 400 hours and conducted more than 100 missions in the King Air 350, proving its value as a versatile platform for maritime surveillance across the country’s vast coastline.
“The King Air 350 brings a powerful EO/IR capability, making it a proven platform for monitoring vast stretches of ocean and responding rapidly to search and rescue requirements.”
Cooperation between Australia and Sri Lanka is a particular focus of this year’s Indo-Pacific Endeavour, Australia’s flagship regional engagement activity bringing together defence forces, governments and communities to build stronger partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.
Australia’s bilateral relationship with Sri Lanka places strong emphasis on maritime security, education and training, including aviation.
As part of IPE25, Squadron Leader Canfield returned to Sri Lanka to continue familiarisation training with SLAF personnel and to lead a subject matter expert exchange at SLAF China Bay.
“It’s a privilege to be back in Sri Lanka, working alongside our Sri Lanka Air Force colleagues and sharing how the King Air can support maritime surveillance, and search and rescue operations,” he said.
“Conducting the SME exchange at SLAF China Bay was incredibly rewarding, both professionally and personally, as it helped us build stronger ties and learn from each other’s approaches.
“Flying brings us together, but it’s the shared meals, the conversations and the laughter that build real partnerships.”
