Top 10 African countries with the lowest fighter/interceptor aircraft fleet

In a previous article, we explored the military strength of 10 African countries in 2024, using Global Firepower’s comprehensive assessment. This index ranks 145 nations’ militaries by considering various factors, including the sophistication and quantity of equipment, financial resources, geography, and available natural resources.

Within military aviation, certain African countries distinguish themselves with impressive aircraft fleets, ranging from fighters and bombers to fighter/interceptor fleets. These capabilities show the growing importance of airpower in modern warfare on the continent.

According to Global Firepower, the fighter jet remains the frontline defender of any major power globally. The most advanced among these are the 5th Generation fighters, which represent the pinnacle of aviation technology. These fighters have stealth technology, highly advanced avionics, and superior manoeuvrability.

However, 4th and 4.5th-generation fighters, such as the American F-16 and the Russian Su-35, are still widely used and continue to form the backbone of many air forces worldwide.

Per the report, Egypt leads the continent with the largest fighter/interceptor aircraft fleet, boasting 238 units, which ranks 11th globally. Algeria follows with 201 aircraft, placing it 21st worldwide.

However, a country like Eritrea has just one unit of fighter/interceptor aircraft, ranking 92nd globally. Similarly, the Democratic Republic of Congo also operates a single aircraft, placing it 91st in the global rankings.