The "Zulu's" of the Air Force turn 25
The "Zulu's", No.08 light transport squadron of the Sri Lanka Air Force celebrates its 25th anniversary last week. Pictures by SLAF. By Asiri Fernando The No.08 light transport squadron of the Sri Lanka Air Force, known by their call sign 'Zulu' celebrates 25 years of service last week. The squadron was established on 2 April 1996 with Y-12 transport and Beechcraft B200 surveillance aircraft. However, the origins of the squadron lay in No. 201 Squadron, an offspring of the No.02 Squadron and actively engaged in a range of combat support operations since 1987. The squadron played a crucial role during the 30 year-long internal conflict. The 08's Y-12 aircraft were workhorses delivering supplies, transporting troops and evacuating casualties to medical facilities. SLAF Y-12 aircraft "The 15-seater Y-12 aircraft was utilized for many multitudes of air operations during the local theatre of war with a small crew working relentlessly during day and night.