Air Marshal Bulathsinghala: A Distinguished Career in the Sri Lanka Air Force
The trajectory of Air Marshal Bulathsinghala's military career is marked by exceptional piloting skill, strategic leadership, and a steadfast commitment to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF). From his early days as a cadet to his eventual appointment as the head of the air force, his journey reflects a lifetime of service to the nation.
Early Training and Commissioning
Bulathsinghala began his professional military journey on 12 February 1981, when he joined the National Defence College as an officer cadet. Following his rigorous training, he was commissioned as a pilot officer in the General Duties Pilot Branch on 8 April 1983, setting the stage for a career defined by aviation excellence.
Command and VVIP Aviation
Throughout his tenure, Air Marshal Bulathsinghala established himself as a premier aviator. He served as the founding Commanding Officer of No. 6 Squadron SLAF and holds the distinction of being the longest-serving Commanding Officer of the No. 4 (VVIP/VIP) Helicopter Squadron SLAF.
As a specialized VVIP pilot—a pilot trained to transport very important persons with the highest standards of security and precision—he accumulated over 4,500 flying hours. His expertise was trusted by four different Sri Lankan presidents: J. R. Jayewardene, Ranasinghe Premadasa, Dingiri Banda Wijetunga, and Chandrika Kumaratunga. Additionally, he held command of the Sri Lanka Air Force Base China Bay.
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Combat Experience and Resilience
During the conflict known as Eelam War I, Bulathsinghala demonstrated extraordinary composure under pressure. On 18 December 1986, while serving as a Flying Officer in Poovarasankulam, Vavuniya, the Bell 412 helicopter he was piloting was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade fired by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam.
Despite a fierce gun battle and the loss of one engine, he declared an emergency and successfully navigated the damaged aircraft to land at the Vavuniya base, ensuring the safety of those on board.
Rise to Leadership
Air Marshal Bulathsinghala's ascent through the ranks was supported by a series of critical staff and operational roles. He served as the aide-de-camp to the Commander of the Air Force, the Overall Operations Commander for Air Defence, and the Command Flight Safety Officer. His contributions to military education were also significant, serving as the Chief Instructor of the Air Wing at the Defence Service Command and Staff College.
His leadership capabilities further expanded as he took on the roles of Director Air Operations and Chief of Staff. On 1 June 2015, he was promoted to the rank of air marshal, and shortly thereafter, on 16 June 2015, he was appointed as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force.
Key Facts
- Total Flying Hours: Over 4,500 hours.
- Presidential Service: VVIP pilot for four Sri Lankan presidents.
- Key Commands: Founding CO of No. 6 Squadron and longest-serving CO of No. 4 Helicopter Squadron.
- Combat Milestone: Successfully landed a Bell 412 in Vavuniya after an RPG strike in 1986.
- Highest Rank: Air Marshal and Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force.
| Date | Event/Appointment |
|---|---|
| 12 February 1981 | Joined National Defence College as officer cadet |
| 8 April 1983 | Commissioned as Pilot Officer (General Duties Pilot Branch) |
| 18 December 1986 | Emergency landing of Bell 412 after RPG attack |
| 1 June 2015 | Promoted to Air Marshal |
| 16 June 2015 | Appointed Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many flying hours did Air Marshal Bulathsinghala accumulate?
He accumulated over 4,500 flying hours during his career.
Which Sri Lankan presidents did he serve as a VVIP pilot for?
He served as the VVIP pilot for J. R. Jayewardene, Ranasinghe Premadasa, Dingiri Banda Wijetunga, and Chandrika Kumaratunga.
What happened during the incident in Poovarasankulam in 1986?
While piloting a Bell 412, his aircraft was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade. Despite losing one engine and facing a gun battle, he successfully landed the helicopter at the Vavuniya base.
What were some of his key leadership roles before becoming Commander?
He served as the Chief of Staff, Director Air Operations, and the Chief Instructor of the Air Wing at the Defence Service Command and Staff College, among other roles.
When was he appointed as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force?
He was appointed as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force on 16 June 2015.