US to Give Sri Lanka 10 Navy Helicopters

• US to give Sri Lanka 10 Navy TH-57 helicopters in early 2026.
• Helicopters enhance Sri Lanka Air Force's fleet and disaster response.
• US aid is under Excess Defence Articles Program and at no cost.

Colombo, Jan 8 (PTI) Sri Lanka will receive 10 US Navy TH-57 (Bell 206 Sea Ranger) helicopters, a top American diplomat said on Thursday.

In a post on X, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung said the

helicopters, manufactured in Texas and built for reliability, are being transferred under the Excess Defence Articles Program and they are expected to arrive in Sri Lanka in early 2026.

"So pleased that the United States can offer 10 @USNavy TH-57 (Bell 206 SEA RANGER) helicopters to @AirForceLK at no cost for the equipment itself," she said.

"Crises like Cyclone Ditwah demonstrate the vital role helicopters play in search and rescue. These 10 helicopters will support the Sri Lanka Air Force by enhancing its fleet and pilot training for more effective disaster response,” she added. PTI CORR ZH

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