February 20, 2009: Sri Lankan Air Force Downs Tamil Tiger Aircraft

On February 20, 2009, a significant event unfolded during the Sri Lankan Civil War when the Sri Lankan Air Force successfully intercepted and shot down two aircraft operated by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), commonly known as the Tamil Tigers. This incident marked a pivotal moment in the conflict, underscoring the diminishing capabilities of the LTTE as the war neared its conclusion.

Context Leading Up to the Event

The Sri Lankan Civil War, which began in 1983, was a protracted and brutal conflict between the government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE. The LTTE sought to create an independent Tamil state in the north and east of the island nation. Over the years, the conflict saw numerous phases of intense fighting, ceasefires, and failed peace negotiations.

By 2009, the Sri Lankan government had gained significant ground against the LTTE, capturing much of the territory previously held by the rebels. The LTTE, known for its innovative and unconventional warfare tactics, had developed a small air wing, the Air Tigers, which they used for surprise attacks.

The Event

On the night of February 20, 2009, two LTTE aircraft attempted a daring raid on Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. The planes, believed to be Czech-built Zlin Z-143 light aircraft modified for military use, were loaded with explosives. Their mission was to target strategic locations in Colombo, including the Sri Lankan Air Force headquarters and other key installations.

The Sri Lankan Air Force, having been on high alert due to previous LTTE air raids, quickly responded. Utilizing radar and anti-aircraft defenses, they managed to intercept the aircraft. One plane was shot down over the city, crashing into the Inland Revenue Department building, causing a fire and several casualties. The second aircraft was downed near the international airport, with both pilots killed in the incidents.

Aftermath and Significance

The downing of the LTTE aircraft was a significant blow to the rebel group, highlighting the increasing effectiveness of the Sri Lankan military’s air defense capabilities. It also marked one of the last major offensive operations attempted by the LTTE as their resources and territorial control dwindled.

This event was part of the final stages of the Sri Lankan Civil War, which concluded in May 2009 with the defeat of the LTTE and the death of its leader, Velupillai Prabhakaran. The war’s end brought relief to a nation weary of decades of conflict but also left deep scars and unresolved ethnic tensions.

The incident on February 20, 2009, remains a testament to the complexities and tragedies of the Sri Lankan Civil War, illustrating both the innovative tactics of the LTTE and the determined response of the Sri Lankan government forces.