Sri Lanka, April 11 -- The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) will maintain an upgraded aircraft fleet in order to contribute to maintaining peace in the Indian Ocean, which is a timely priority of the region, Air Force Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa said.

He said the fighter jet fleet of the Air Force is currently undergoing a major overhaul in order to be upgraded and they will be back in operation by early next year. "The country's national leadership has set out several top priorities for us to achieve and maintaining peace in the Indian Ocean is one among them. Accordingly, we are dedicated to ensuring free navigation of vessels in the Indian Ocean," he said.

According to him, at least five upgraded fighter aircraft will be released...