Top 5 African countries with the largest military aircraft fleet at the start of 2026

Air power has quietly become one of Africa’s most decisive military assets. In regions where conflicts can flare up quickly and borders stretch for thousands of kilometres, aircraft offer speed, reach, and deterrence that ground forces alone cannot match.

From counter-insurgency operations to regional peacekeeping, military aviation now sits at the centre of national security planning across the continent.

Against this backdrop, Egypt, Algeria, and Angola emerge in 2026 as Africa’s strongest air powers, according to Global Firepower, showing how investment in aircraft fleets has become a key marker of military influence.

Global Firepower measures a country’s total air service strength when compiling its annual rankings. This includes both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft drawn from all branches of the military, Air Force, Army Aviation, Navy, and Marine units.

Counted platforms range from fighter jets and interceptors to training aircraft, transport planes, helicopters, bombers, ground-attack aircraft, and special-mission platforms. Importantly, aircraft still under development or on order are not included in the tally.

Below are the African countries with the largest military aircraft fleets:

Egypt has Africa’s largest and most powerful military aircraft fleet, ranking 9th globally with 1,088 aircraft. Its air force is the backbone of its military strength, supported by decades of investment and strong defence ties with the US, France, and Russia. Egypt operates advanced fighter jets such as F-16s, Rafales, and MiG-29s, alongside attack helicopters and transport aircraft. Its strategic location, bordering the Middle East, North Africa, and the Red Sea, makes air superiority critical.

Algeria ranks 16th globally with 620 military aircraft, making it one of Africa’s most formidable air powers. Its fleet is heavily influenced by Russian military hardware, including Sukhoi fighter jets, MiG aircraft, and advanced air defence systems. Between 2018 and 2022, Algeria purchased 73% of its military equipment from Russia. Algeria prioritises air power to secure its vast territory, protect energy infrastructure, and maintain regional balance in North Africa and the Sahel. The air force plays a key role in surveillance and counterterrorism operations, especially given Algeria’s long borders with Mali, Niger, and Libya.

Angola holds 278 military aircraft, placing it 35th globally. Much of its air force capability is rooted in Cold War-era acquisitions, particularly from Russia and former Soviet allies. Angola’s fleet includes fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters used for territorial defence and internal security. The fleet also reflects Angola’s long history of military investment following decades of civil conflict.

Morocco ranks 37th globally with 271 military aircraft. Its air force is one of the most modernised in Africa, benefiting from close defence ties with the United States and Europe. Morocco operates F-16 fighter jets, transport aircraft, and surveillance platforms critical to its security strategy. Air power is especially important given tensions over Western Sahara and Morocco’s broader regional ambitions.

Sudan has 183 military aircraft, ranking 47th globally. Its fleet includes fighter jets, attack helicopters, and transport aircraft, largely sourced from Russia and China. The air force has historically played a central role in internal conflicts, border disputes, and troop mobility across Sudan’s vast terrain. However, years of political instability, sanctions, and conflict have strained maintenance and operational readiness. Despite these challenges, Sudan’s air fleet remains a key component of its military structure and regional security posture.

South Africa ranks 48th globally with 181 military aircraft. Once home to one of Africa’s most advanced air forces, its fleet includes Gripen fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. South Africa plays a vital role in peacekeeping missions, disaster response, and regional security operations under the African Union and United Nations.

Nigeria holds 159 military aircraft, ranking 54th globally. Its air force has expanded in recent years to support counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram and other security threats. Nigeria’s fleet includes fighter jets, attack helicopters, drones, and transport aircraft sourced from the US, China, and Europe. Air power is central to Nigeria’s internal security strategy, given its size, population, and security challenges.

Tunisia ranks 56th globally with 155 military aircraft. Its air force is relatively small but strategically focused, prioritising border security and counterterrorism. Tunisia relies heavily on partnerships with the United States and NATO allies for training, equipment, and intelligence support. The fleet consists mainly of light aircraft, helicopters, and limited combat platforms. Despite its modest size, Tunisia’s air force plays a critical role in monitoring its borders with Libya and supporting internal security operations.

Kenya holds 154 military aircraft, placing it 57th globally. Its air force supports regional security efforts, particularly operations against militant groups in Somalia. Kenya operates fighter jets, helicopters, and surveillance aircraft, many acquired through Western defence partnerships. Air power enables rapid troop deployment, intelligence gathering, and maritime patrols along the Indian Ocean.

Ethiopia ranks 70th globally with 104 military aircraft. Its air force has long been one of the most experienced in the Horn of Africa, shaped by decades of regional conflicts. Ethiopia operates fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters, mainly sourced from Russia and Eastern Europe. While smaller in number, the fleet supports internal security operations and border defence.