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“Deterrence through Detection” UNCLASSIFIED

32. Sri Lanka's maritime surveillance capabilities were recently strengthened with

the induction of two long-range maritime patrol aircraft to SLAF. On 10 Oct 24, the
United States provided a Beechcraft King Air 350, followed by another Beechcraft King
Air 350 donated by Australia in 12 Dec 24. These newly acquired aircraft are equipped
with advanced surveillance and communication systems, offering significant potential
to enhance Sri Lanka’s ability to monitor and secure its vast maritime zones. While no
operations have been carried out with these aircraft yet, their long-range capabilities
are expected to provide strategic advantages, allowing the SLAF and SLN to extend
operational reach and improve real-time intelligence gathering in the future.

Figure 3
Handing over of the B-350 MPA by U.S.A on 10 October, 2024
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Figure 4
Handing over the B-350 MPA by Australia on 12 December, 2024
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UNCLASSIFIED “Deterrence through Detection”