Top 10 African countries with the largest military aircraft fleet in 2025

Military aircraft are essential in a country’s defence and security strategies, serving as a cornerstone for ensuring sovereignty and addressing security challenges.

Globally, these aircraft are vital for warfare, surveillance, humanitarian missions, and counter-terrorism efforts. In Africa, where diverse security and developmental challenges persist, military aircraft have become indispensable tools for maintaining peace, protecting territorial integrity, and responding to emergencies.

One of the primary roles of military aircraft is combat operations. Africa faces numerous security threats, including terrorism, armed insurgencies, and cross-border conflicts.

Fighter jets and attack helicopters are critical in countering such threats, providing governments with the ability to respond swiftly and decisively to hostile activities. These aircraft also serve as deterrents, signalling a country’s capability to defend itself and its interests.

In addition to combat, military aircraft are widely used for surveillance and reconnaissance. Africa’s vast landmass, porous borders, and extensive coastlines require constant monitoring to prevent illegal activities such as smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorism.

Notably, within the military aviation space, some African countries distinguish themselves with impressive fleets of aircraft, including fighters, bombers, transport planes, and helicopters, as highlighted in the latest report by Global Firepower.

Last year, Egypt held the position of having the most formidable military air fleet on the continent, followed by Algeria and Angola. This year’s report confirms that these countries have retained their top three rankings, with each making additions to their fleets. Egypt increased its stock by 13 aircraft, Algeria by 3, and Angola by 1.

According to the report, fixed wing and rotary-wing (helicopters) aircraft types are factored in from all branches of service (Air Force, Army Aviation, Navy, Marine). Various aircraft types also taken into account are fighters (multirole, interceptors), trainers (basic, advanced), transports (fixed-wing and helicopters), dedicated bombers and ground attackers, special-mission platforms, and more.

However, aircraft currently under development or on order heading into the upcoming year are not included in the evaluation.