The United States Government has transferred ten operational TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters to Sri Lanka, significantly strengthening the operational capabilities of the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF).
According to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Washington D.C., the helicopters—military variants of the Bell 206B-3 Jet Ranger manufactured by Bell Helicopter Textron USA—are currently undergoing final preparations for shipment and are expected to depart for Sri Lanka in early February.
The transfer fulfills a long-standing operational requirement of the SLAF by adding versatile, general-purpose aircraft capable of supporting a wide range of missions, including pilot training, disaster response, humanitarian assistance, and search-and-rescue operations.
The TH-57 Sea Ranger has been in service with the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard since 1968, earning a strong reputation for reliability and adaptability. Globally, the aircraft is widely used for advanced flight training, passenger transport, maritime operations, and emergency response missions. The SLAF has operated Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopters since 1969, making the integration of the TH-57 a seamless addition to its existing fleet and technical expertise.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the transfer, Dr. Andrew Byers, Deputy Assistant Director of War, stated that the donation represents another milestone in strengthening U.S.–Sri Lanka defense relations. He noted that the transfer follows previous cooperation efforts, including the December handover of a former U.S. Coast Guard cutter and disaster relief assistance provided to Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah.
The Sri Lankan Embassy emphasized that the donation reflects the deepening partnership between the two countries in the areas of regional security, disaster preparedness, and humanitarian assistance.
Once fully integrated into the SLAF fleet, the helicopters are expected to significantly enhance Sri Lanka’s rapid response capabilities, improve humanitarian aid delivery, and strengthen overall air operations.
The Embassy also expressed Sri Lanka’s gratitude to the United States for its continued support during times of national need.
