The Change of Command of No 2 Heavy Transport Squadron at SLAF Base Katunayake took place with the traditional Handing over/ Taking over parade today (02 April 2026) at the squadron premises.

The new Commanding Officer, Wing Commander MPKT Kumara MSc (Def & Strat Stu), psc assumed duties from Group Captain HMM Samarakoon USP MSc (Def & Strat Stu) psc as the 39th Commanding Officer of the squadron.

Prior to his appointment as the Commanding Officer, Wing Commander Kumara served as the Officer Commanding Operations of the squadron. Subsequently, Group Captain Samarakoon will be proceed to the Defence Services Command and Staff College Sapugaskanda, where he will be assuming duties as the Directing Staff Air I.