Top 5 African countries with the largest attack helicopter fleets in 2025

In recent decades, African nations have recognised the strategic importance of rotary-wing aircraft, especially attack helicopters.

Designed to dominate the skies with speed, precision, and firepower, these aircraft are no longer seen as luxury assets for militaries, they are essential tools in the fight against terrorism, border protection, and maintaining peace in some of the world’s most volatile regions.

According to Global Firepower’s military rankings, African countries differ significantly in the size and capabilities of their attack helicopter fleets. Notable models include the Boeing AH-64 Apache, the Eurocopter Tiger, and the Kamov Ka-52 Alligator/Mi-28 Havoc.

Attack helicopters are specialized military assets primarily operated by the army or air force, designed to deliver firepower and close air support (CAS) to ground troops.

In Africa, Egypt leads with 100 attack helicopters, ranking 7th globally. Following Egypt, Algeria comes in with 74 helicopters, placing it 9th globally.

Africa’s challenges are diverse. From Boko Haram’s guerrilla tactics in Nigeria to the Al-Shabaab insurgency in Somalia and the ongoing conflicts in the Sahel and Great Lakes regions, the need for rapid-response aerial platforms has never been more critical.

These helicopters provide unmatched mobility, allowing nations to respond swiftly to threats that might otherwise evade conventional ground forces. Beyond combat, they serve in search-and-rescue missions, disaster relief, and even support for UN peacekeeping missions, embodying their versatility.

In regions where ground troops often face logistical barriers like dense forests, expansive deserts, and poorly maintained infrastructure, attack helicopters bridge the gap quickly and precisely.