The United States Government has transferred to Sri Lanka ten operational TH-57 Sea Ranger helicopters, a military variant of the renowned Bell 206B-3 Jet Ranger, manufactured by Bell Helicopter Textron USA, which addresses a critical and long-standing operational requirement for the SLAF, bolstering its fleet with versatile aircraft essential for a wide array of general-purpose missions. The TH-57 Sea Ranger has a distinguished service history with the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard since 1968, proving its reliability and adaptability. Globally, this helicopter model is highly valued for diverse roles including advanced pilot training, passenger transport, disaster response, maritime search and rescue, and various humanitarian operations. The SLAF itself has a rich history of operating Bell 206 Jet Rangers since 1969, making these new additions a natural and highly complementary fit for their existing infrastructure and expertise.
The profound strategic importance of this donation was underscored by Dr. Andrew Byers, Deputy Assistant Director of War, who remarked: "The transfer of these ten TH-57 helicopters marks another important step in U.S.-Sri Lanka defense relations—much like the December transfer of a former U.S. Coast Guard cutter as well as the disaster relief provided by U.S. Department of War service members and aircraft to the people of Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone ‘Ditwah’. We look forward to working with the Sri Lankan Air Force as they begin to field this new capability."
These sentiments highlight the enduring and strengthening partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka, in enhancing regional security, disaster preparedness, and humanitarian assistance efforts.
These highly capable helicopters are currently undergoing final preparations for shipment and are slated to embark on their journey to Sri Lanka at the beginning of February. Their integration into the SLAF fleet is anticipated to significantly elevate the nation's capacity for rapid response, humanitarian aid delivery, and overall air domain effectiveness.
Sri Lanka is thankful to the United States for consistently assisting the country at times of need.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington D.C.
14.01.2026
