Australia-Sri Lanka ties deepen through Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2025

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Cooperation between Australia and Sri Lanka is a key focus of this year’s Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE 2025) — Australia’s flagship regional engagement program aimed at strengthening defence, government, and community partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

The two countries share strong ties in maritime security, aviation, and training, working together to promote a safe and stable Indian Ocean region while tackling transnational crime and protecting crucial sea routes.

In October 2024, Australia gifted a King Air 350 aircraft to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), enhancing its ability to conduct maritime surveillance and search-and-rescue missions. Since then, SLAF crews have flown over 400 hours and completed more than 100 missions, showcasing the aircraft’s value in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s coastline.

Squadron Leader Glenn Canfield, who piloted the aircraft’s delivery from Australia to Sri Lanka, returned this year under IPE25 to conduct advanced training and lead a subject matter expert exchange at SLAF China Bay.

“It’s a privilege to work alongside our Sri Lankan counterparts and share how the King Air supports maritime operations,” he said, highlighting that the collaboration goes beyond technical skills — it’s about building trust and long-term friendships.

The initiative reflects the true spirit of Indo-Pacific Endeavour: combining technology, training, and teamwork to create lasting regional partnerships.

For both nations, the King Air 350 has become more than just an aircraft — it’s a symbol of cooperation, reinforcing the shared goal of ensuring a secure and resilient Indo-Pacific.

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