Air power continues to play a decisive role in Africa’s military strength, offering speed, reach, and strategic deterrence across a continent marked by vast borders and complex security challenges.
According to Global Firepower’s 2026 rankings, Egypt, Algeria, and Angola emerge as the African countries with the largest military aircraft fleets at the start of the year. The ranking highlights how sustained investment in air assets has become a major indicator of defence capability.
Egypt leads the continent with 1,088 military aircraft, which places it ninth globally. The country operates Africa’s most formidable air force, built on decades of heavy investment and defence cooperation with the United States, France, and Russia. Its fleet includes advanced platforms such as F-16 fighter jets, Rafales, and MiG-29s, alongside attack helicopters and transport aircraft. Egypt’s strategic position across North Africa, the Middle East, and the Red Sea has made air superiority a core military priority.
Algeria follows in second place with 620 military aircraft, ranking 16th worldwide. The country’s air power is largely shaped by Russian-supplied equipment, including Sukhoi and MiG fighter jets, as well as sophisticated air-defence systems. Between 2018 and 2022, 73 per cent of Algeria’s military imports reportedly came from Russia. Air strength remains central to Algeria’s efforts to secure its expansive territory, protect critical energy infrastructure, and maintain balance in North Africa and the Sahel.
Angola ranks third in Africa with 278 military aircraft, which places it 35th globally. Much of its fleet dates back to acquisitions made during the Cold War era from Russia and former Soviet allies. The air force consists of fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters that support territorial defence and internal security. Angola’s sizeable fleet reflects long-term military spending after years of civil conflict.
Morocco occupies the fourth position with 271 military aircraft and ranks 37th globally. Its air force stands among the most modernised on the continent, supported by close defence cooperation with the United States and European partners. The fleet includes F-16 fighter jets, transport aircraft, and surveillance platforms that play a central role in national security, especially amid tensions over Western Sahara.
Sudan comes fifth with 183 military aircraft, placing it 47th worldwide. Its fleet features fighter jets, attack helicopters, and transport aircraft sourced mainly from Russia and China. Air power has traditionally supported internal security operations and border control, although prolonged instability, sanctions, and ongoing conflict have affected maintenance and readiness.
South Africa ranks sixth with 181 military aircraft, which puts it 48th globally. Once home to one of Africa’s most advanced air forces, the country still operates Gripen fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters. South Africa remains active in peacekeeping missions, disaster response, and regional security operations under the African Union and the United Nations.
Nigeria follows closely in seventh place with 159 military aircraft, ranking 54th globally. The Nigerian Air Force has expanded in recent years to support counter-insurgency campaigns against Boko Haram and other security threats. Its fleet includes fighter jets, attack helicopters, drones, and transport aircraft sourced from the United States, China, and Europe. Air capability remains central to Nigeria’s internal security strategy.
Tunisia ranks eighth with 155 military aircraft, placing it 56th globally. Although relatively small, its air force focuses on border security and counterterrorism. Tunisia relies on cooperation with the United States and NATO partners for training and equipment. Its fleet consists mainly of light aircraft and helicopters, supported by a limited number of combat platforms.
Kenya holds ninth position with 154 military aircraft, ranking 57th worldwide. The country’s air force supports regional security efforts, particularly operations against militant groups in Somalia. Kenya operates fighter jets, helicopters, and surveillance aircraft obtained largely through Western defence partnerships, which enable rapid deployment and intelligence gathering.
Ethiopia completes the top ten with 104 military aircraft, placing it 70th globally. Its air force ranks among the most experienced in the Horn of Africa, shaped by decades of regional conflict. The fleet includes fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters sourced mainly from Russia and Eastern Europe, and it remains vital for border defence and internal security operations.
