The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Aviation Unit deployed at Bria under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) successfully executed a high-risk troop resupply and insertion mission in Bambouti on 31 December 2025.

The deployment to Obo was necessitated by urgent operational requirements in Bambouti, assessed as one of the most volatile and high-threat areas in the MINUSCA Area of Responsibility.

In support of the mission, the SLAF operated a Mi-17 helicopter (UNO 325P) to deliver approximately 1,800 kg of critical troop supplies. Given the security risks, the operation received coordinated close air support from the Tunisian Aviation Unit’s Black Hawk helicopter (UNO 316P), enhancing safety throughout the mission.

Upon completing the resupply, armed hostile elements were observed advancing toward the aircraft, posing an immediate threat to the helicopter, aircrew, and UN personnel on the ground. Fourteen Central African Armed Forces (FACA) soldiers stationed at the MINUSCA Temporary Operating Base in Bambouti were under imminent risk.

Demonstrating exceptional situational awareness and leadership under pressure, the SLAF aircrew ensured the safe extraction of all 14 personnel. The helicopter took off rapidly and returned safely to Obo without sustaining damage or casualties.

The mission was conducted by an experienced SLAF crew led by Wing Commander Nuran Perera as Captain Pilot, with Flight Lieutenant Shafrid Iqbal as Co-Pilot, Flight Lieutenant Praveen Rathnayake as Flight Engineer, Flight Sergeant Senevirathne WCN as Loadmaster, and Sergeant Bandarra MGSK along with Corporal Weerasinghe KPS serving as Air Gunners.