Sri Lanka, Aug. 20 -- The Sri Lanka Aviation Unit in Bria, deployed under the United Nations mandate in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), has received high praise and official commendations for successfully conducting a high-risk casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) operation on June 14.

The operation, led by Group Captain Uditha de Silva of the 10th Aviation Contingent, played a crucial role in swiftly evacuating three severely wounded UN personnel from the Zemio region, a hostile and dangerous operational environment.

Using a Mi-17 helicopter (UNO 326P), the team demonstrated exceptional piloting skills, rapid decision-making, and strong situational awareness under extreme pressure.

The mission lasted three hours and 50 minutes, and t...