Colombo: Two C-130 Hercules transport aircraft of the United States Air Force arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), bringing a specialized team of technical experts and essential equipment to bolster Sri Lanka’s ongoing post-disaster relief and recovery operations.

According to Ministry of Defence, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, HE Julie Chung, Minister of Science and Technology, Hon. Professor Chrishantha Abeysena, Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), and Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, were present at the BIA to receive the US contingent. The visiting US team, comprising technical specialists, will work in close coordination with the Sri Lankan Tri-Forces and the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) to expedite the distribution of aid, provide specialized assistance for infrastructure assessment, and reinforce national recovery efforts following the recent adverse weather conditions.

Hon. Deputy Minister of Defence Major Ge
neral Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) expressed gratitude to the US Government for its swift response, stating, “This deployment of advanced technical expertise and equipment is a profound demonstration of friendship and partnership, significantly enhancing our national capacity to reach and restore our affected communities.”

The deployment of the C-130 aircraft is a critical component of the wider US government assistance package aimed at supporting the nation’s comprehensive ‘Rebuild Sri Lanka’ initiative. Senior officials from the US Embassy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Defence, and the Sri Lanka Air Force were also present at the welcoming ceremony.