Story perspectives

U.S. and Allies Boost Sri Lanka’s Medical Response Skills

9/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

From September 8-11, 2025, the U.S. Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, and Japan Self Defense Force engaged in a medical exchange with Sri Lankan military personnel at Katunayake Air Base.
This event, part of Pacific Angel 25-1, focused on enhancing tactical combat casualty care and aeromedical evacuation procedures.
The exercise featured a mass casualty stabilization and evacuation drill, demonstrating a coordinated response from initial care to patient transport.
Lt Col. Janette Miguel Williford of the U.S. Air Force Reservists stressed the value of integrating civilian expertise into military operations for improved readiness.
Wing Commander Himali Mendis of the Sri Lankan Air Force noted the importance of collaboration in advancing their aeromedical capabilities.

History

Historical Context

Launched in 2010, the U.S. military's Pacific Angel program aims to enhance humanitarian assistance and disaster response across Asia. Involving over 1,000 personnel, it has provided medical care in countries like Indonesia and the Philippines. The recent Pacific Angel 25-1 exercise in Sri Lanka underscores ongoing U.S. commitment to international collaboration, vital for regional stability amid natural disasters and humanitarian crises.

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Story summary

From September 8-11, 2025, the U.S. Air Force, Royal Australian Air Force, and Japan Self Defense Force engaged in a medical exchange with Sri Lankan military personnel at Katunayake Air Base.
This event, part of Pacific Angel 25-1, focused on enhancing tactical combat casualty care and aeromedical evacuation procedures.
The exercise featured a mass casualty stabilization and evacuation drill, demonstrating a coordinated response from initial care to patient transport.
Lt Col. Janette Miguel Williford of the U.S. Air Force Reservists stressed the value of integrating civilian expertise into military operations for improved readiness.
Wing Commander Himali Mendis of the Sri Lankan Air Force noted the importance of collaboration in advancing their aeromedical capabilities.

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