In a notable and farsighted move, the SLAF has initiated a collaborative effort with the Arthur C Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies (ACCIMT) to acquire technical consultancy and cooperation, training, data sharing, joint Research & Development (R&D) collaboration and resource sharing. The signing of a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today (25 March 2024) between the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa and Eng. (Dr.) Sanath Panawennage, Director General and CEO of Arthur C Clarke Institute mark the beginning of a partnership focused on enhancing the potential of rapidly evolving applications in the domains of Space Technology, Drone and Unmanned Ariel Vehicles for better execution of the role of SLAF in line with the national defence strategy of Sri Lanka.
This strategic collaboration with ACCIMT provides joint formulation and implementation of a comprehensive medium-term programme for developing the technological capacity of SLAF in the domains of Space Technology and Unmanned Ariel Vehicles, tailored training sessions on Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems, along with ongoing technical support. Additionally, SLAF will benefit from building awareness of space technology applications in such areas as weather forecasting, remote sensing, satellite navigation and long-distance communications which critically rely on space infrastructure. Further, the signing of this agreement enables the collaboratively share intellectual and physical resources, including infrastructure facilities for strategically important projects beneficial to both parties.
The collaborative endeavour leveraging the present technological capabilities possessed by both parties, focusing on the domains of Drone and Unmanned Ariel Vehicles to position SLAF to strategically harness the potential of rapidly evolving applications thereby propelling advancements in technological prowess and fostering progress within Sri Lanka’s defence sector. This partnership not only reaffirms SLAF’s dedication to remaining at the forefront of technological advancements in the country but also represents a significant step towards achieving greater proficiency in Space Technology applications, Unmanned Ariel Vehicles and drone technology.
