The United States has transferred 10 TH-57 Bell 206 helicopters to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) under the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) program, aimed at strengthening the country’s disaster response, search-and-rescue, and pilot training capabilities. The aircraft, a variant of the Bell Jet Ranger 206 previously operated by the US Navy, are scheduled to arrive in Sri Lanka as early as February, according to defense officials.
The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated that the helicopters will help close critical operational gaps identified during Cyclone Ditwah in November 2025, when limited aviation assets hindered evacuation efforts and delayed search-and-rescue missions. The addition of the TH-57 fleet is expected to significantly enhance Sri Lanka’s ability to respond quickly to natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.
Beyond operational benefits, the transfer underscores the growing defense relationship between the United States and Sri Lanka, marked by increased cooperation in training, capacity building, and equipment support. Bilateral defense ties have steadily expanded through structured programs and formal agreements over recent years.
In November 2025, Sri Lanka signed a memorandum of understanding under the US Department of Defense’s State Partnership Program, partnering with the Montana National Guard, US Coast Guard District 13, and the Sri Lanka Armed Forces. The agreement focuses on joint training, maritime security, disaster response, cyber defense, and professional military education, reinforcing long-term defense collaboration between the two nations.
