Air Chief Marshal Abeywickrema: A Legacy of Leadership in the Sri Lanka Air Force
The trajectory of the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) underwent a profound transformation during the late 20th and early 21st centuries, a period marked by the escalation of the Sri Lankan Civil War. Central to this evolution was Air Chief Marshal Abeywickrema, a pioneering aviator who transitioned from transport aircraft to leading the nation's first supersonic fighter squadron.
Early Career and Foundational Training
Abeywickrema began his military journey in 1980 as an Officer cadet in the General Duties Pilot Branch. After completing his flying training, he was commissioned as a Pilot officer in 1982. At that time, the SLAF operated a limited fleet consisting of only two air squadrons—one fixed-wing and one rotary-wing—as its fighter aircraft had previously been retired.
As the civil war intensified, operational demands shifted. Abeywickrema, initially flying transport aircraft, was transferred to operate the SIAI-Marchetti SF.260, a light attack turboprop aircraft. During this phase of his career, he also earned the designation of Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI), establishing his expertise in pilot training.
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Pioneering the Jet Age and Combat Leadership
By the late 1980s, the SLAF recognized the strategic necessity of reintroducing jet fighters. Because the force lacked jet-qualified pilots, Squadron leader Abeywickrema was selected to lead this initiative due to his experience with light attack aircraft. In 1991, he became the first commanding officer of the No. 5 "Jet" Squadron, the country's first fighter squadron, following the acquisition of F-7 and F-5 fighters from China.
Abeywickrema was among the first pilots to qualify in the F-7 in 1991, making him the first SLAF pilot to achieve supersonic flight (flight at speeds exceeding the speed of sound). He led critical sorties over areas controlled by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) shortly after the group introduced Man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS). This threat had previously resulted in the shoot-down of two Hawker Siddeley HS 748 aircraft in April 1995, leading to the deaths of over 100 military personnel, including Wing Commander Roger Weerasinghe and Wing Commander Shirantha Goonatilake.
Strategic Fleet Expansion
Beyond operational command, Abeywickrema played a key role in the modernization of the fleet by helping select the IAI Kfir aircraft, which he qualified to fly in 1996. His professional development continued through advanced education at the Air Command and Staff College, Air University, and later at the Royal College of Defence Studies.
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Command Appointments and Senior Leadership
Abeywickrema's career was marked by a series of high-level command roles. He served as the Commandant of the No. 1 Flying Training Wing and held the position of Commanding Officer at several key installations, including Jaffna International Airport, China Bay Airport, Anuradhapura Airport, and Ratmalana Airport. He further served as the Zonal Commander East and the Chief Instructor of the Air Wing at the Defence Services Command and Staff College.
His ascent into the Air Force Board of Management began in 2006, where he served as Director Operations and subsequently as Director Air Operations. In the latter role, based in Colombo, he spearheaded the air operations that contributed to the successful conclusion of the Sri Lankan Civil War in 2009.
Final Promotions and Retirement
In 2008, he was appointed Deputy Chief of Staff and promoted to Air vice-marshal. By 2011, his responsibilities expanded to include the role of Director Logistics. In February 2011, he reached the pinnacle of his career when he was appointed Commander of the Air Force and promoted to the rank of Air Marshal. Upon his retirement in 2014, he was promoted to the rank of Air Chief Marshal.
Key Facts
- First Supersonic Pilot: He was the first SLAF pilot to fly at supersonic speeds in 1991.
- Squadron Founder: He served as the first commanding officer of the No. 5 "Jet" Squadron.
- Combat Experience: Led sorties against LTTE forces following the introduction of MANPADS.
- Strategic Influence: Instrumental in the selection and integration of IAI Kfir fighters.
- Highest Rank: Retired as an Air Chief Marshal in 2014.
Career Summary Table
| Year/Period | Role/Achievement | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Officer Cadet | Joined General Duties Pilot Branch |
| 1982 | Pilot Officer | Commissioned after flying training |
| 1991 | CO, No. 5 "Jet" Squadron | First fighter squadron; first supersonic flight |
| 1996 | IAI Kfir Qualification | Instrumental in aircraft selection |
| 2006 | Director Operations | Joined Air Force Board of Management |
| 2009 | Director Air Operations | Spearheaded operations to end the Civil War |
| 2011 | Commander of the Air Force | Promoted to Air Marshal |
| 2014 | Retirement | Promoted to Air Chief Marshal |
Honors and Decorations
For his bravery in combat and distinguished service, Air Chief Marshal Abeywickrema was awarded several prestigious medals:
- Gallantry Medals: Rana Wickrama Padakkama and Rana Sura Padakkama.
- Service Medals: Vishista Seva Vibhushanaya, Uththama Seva Padakkama, and the Sri Lanka Armed Services Long Service Medal.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Abeywickrema become the first supersonic pilot in the SLAF?
He achieved this milestone in 1991 after qualifying in the F-7 fighter aircraft.
What was the significance of the No. 5 "Jet" Squadron?
Formed in 1991 under Abeywickrema's command, it was the first fighter squadron in the Sri Lanka Air Force, utilizing F-7 and F-5 fighters.
Which aircraft was Abeywickrema instrumental in selecting for the SLAF?
He was instrumental in the selection of the IAI Kfir fighters, which he qualified to fly in 1996.
What role did he play in the conclusion of the Sri Lankan Civil War?
As the Director Air Operations based in Colombo, he spearheaded the air operations that led to the successful conclusion of the war in 2009.
What is the highest rank he achieved?
He was promoted to the rank of Air Chief Marshal upon his retirement in 2014.