Cooperation between Australia and Sri Lanka has taken flight under the Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE), Australia’s flagship regional engagement program designed to strengthen defence partnerships, build trust, and enhance regional stability.
In October 2024, the Australian Government gifted a former Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) King Air 350 to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), marking a significant milestone in the two countries’ maritime cooperation.
The versatile aircraft, equipped with advanced electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) systems, has since become a vital asset for Sri Lanka’s maritime surveillance and search and rescue operations.
“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,” said Squadron Leader Glenn Canfield, Training Flight Commander at 32 Squadron, who 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,” he recalled.
“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.”
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 (SME) 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.”
Beyond the technical collaboration, Canfield reflected on the personal connections that underpin such initiatives.
“Flying brings us together, but it’s the shared meals, the conversations, and the laughter that build real partnerships.”
Both nations share a commitment to an open, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean region, focusing on maritime security, education, and training. The King Air 350 now stands as a symbol of that cooperation – an aircraft that not only enhances Sri Lanka’s operational capacity but also reflects the spirit of partnership at the heart of Indo-Pacific Endeavour.
While platforms like the King Air 350 deliver capability, it is the collaboration between people that sustains long-term effectiveness and mutual understanding – ensuring both Australia and Sri Lanka are better prepared to meet the evolving challenges of the maritime domain.
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