A special correspondent
As Sri Lanka Air Force marks its 75th anniversary, the Government has unveiled an ambitious US$18 million (Rs. 5.4 billion) fleet modernization drive, combining new acquisitions with costly overhauls of ageing aircraft. While officials frame the initiative as essential to national security and disaster response, the timing raises difficult fiscal questions for a country still navigating the aftermath of its worst economic crisis in decades.
The programme includes overhauling four Mi-17 helicopters in Georgia at an estimated US$4.5 million per aircraft under a life-extension plan. Upon completion, three are expected to serve with the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic, potentially generating foreign revenue, while one will reinforce domestic operations.
In addition, two Beechcraft King Air surveillance aircraft the 350 and 360ER variants have been donated by the United States and Australia, enhancing maritime surveillance and disaster preparedness. Ten TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters from the US Navy are also expected, bolstering pilot training and emergency response capacity.
The modernisation extends to combat assets. Five Kfir fighter jets are undergoing a US$50 million upgrade by Israel Aerospace Industries, incorporating advanced avionics and radar systems. Chinese-built F-7 and K-8 aircraft are being refurbished locally with foreign technical assistance, while efforts are underway to return the long-grounded MA-60 passenger aircraft to service.
Deputy Chief of Staff Air Vice Marshal Gihan Seneviratne argues that lessons from recent extreme weather events underscore the urgency of improved readiness. Nevertheless constructive criticism is warranted. Sri Lanka’s public finances remain fragile, with heavy reliance on treasury allocations and external restructuring agreements. Capital-intensive defence upgrades, even when partially supported by foreign partners, create long-term maintenance, training and operational cost obligations.
Moreover, the strategic logic behind certain acquisitions deserves greater transparency. For instance, negotiations for additional C-130 Hercules transport aircraft and utility helicopters suggest expanding logistical capability. However, the public has not been presented with a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis outlining lifecycle expenses, funding sources, or projected revenue from UN deployments.
There is also the broader policy question: how should Sri Lanka balance defence modernisation against pressing social and economic priorities? Health, education and public sector reform continue to demand sustained investment. In a constrained fiscal environment, sequencing and prioritisation become critical.
To its credit, the SLAF has sought to diversify its role beyond combat readiness strengthening maritime domain awareness, humanitarian relief, and even launching a Space Research and Innovation Section. These forward-looking initiatives could yield technological spillovers if managed prudently.
Ultimately, fleet modernisation is not inherently problematic. Air assets are capital goods requiring periodic renewal. But in an economy rebuilding from sovereign default, every dollar must demonstrate measurable strategic or economic return. Without rigorous oversight and transparent financing structures, even well-intentioned defence upgrades risk compounding fiscal vulnerability.
The SLAF’s 75th anniversary celebrations may symbolise resilience. The greater challenge lies in ensuring that renewal in the skies does not translate into renewed strain on the nation’s treasury.