Ethiopian air force fighter jets Ethiopian Air Force Fighter Jets and Helicopters Plastic Models are discounted up to 18%. Italeri Ethiopian Air Force Fighter Jets and Helicopters are discounted up to 15%. . According to Chinese military sources cited by local media, the 3 days ago · America's fleet of stealth air superiority fighters is starting to get long in the tooth. Entering service in the Soviet Air Force from 1970, and remaining in production until 1985, the MiG-23 swept wing fighter was one of the most widely used fighter aircraft Dec 14, 2019 · The Ethiopian Air Force has proceeded with its fleet modernization program aimed at replacing the aged Soviet Era aircraft; and as part of the renewal program, the Ethiopian Air Force has recently taken delivery of six new German made trainer aircraft. Washington’s Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute in Alabama in 1920, one of the six Jan 22, 2024 · The Ethiopian National Defense Forces have received Russian-made 4th generation Sukhoi Su-30 fighters and Turkish Akıncı unmanned aerial vehicles. By joining the ranks of Algeria, Uganda, and Angola, Ethiopia underscores its commitment to enhancing its air defense capabilities by incorporating advanced military aircraft. Sukhoi Su-30 story in colours. The official handover ceremony took place today, with the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, and Chief Commander of the Ethiopian Air Moreover, the rapid modernisation of the Egyptian Air Force since 2013 has ended Ethiopia’s considerable former qualitative advantage, and Egypt’s acquisition of Su-35 aircraft has for the first time provided it with a fighter with the endurance needed to carry out effective strike operations against Ethiopian targets. Dec 10, 2024 · The following represents an overview of the modern aerial fighting capabilities of the Ethiopian Air Force (2025). Read more. The Ethiopian Air Force's initiative to train female pilots has proven effective, as senior cadets Ayantu Kasa and Hawi Girma have successfully completed the Explore the capabilities of the Ethiopian Air Force's SU-35 fighter jets, their impact on military operations, and advancements in aviation. The Ethiopian Air Force is the aviation branch of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces. Although the United States trained the air force during Emperor Haile Selassie's reign and supplied new F-5 jets in April 1966, the Ethiopians restructured their air force that same year based on an Israeli Defense Force military program provided by Tel Aviv. Sep 13, 2021 · A Facebook post with an image claiming to show fighter jets purportedly belonging to the Ethiopian Air Force is FALSE. Though most details of this aspect are kept secret, some information is in the public domain. Beginning on Dec. The fifth-generation fighters are slated for an overhaul, one that may have begun already Russian Air Force Sukhoi Su-30LL flying along the runway at Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport extremely close to the ground piloted by Anatoly Kvochur. Jan 16, 2024 · In a significant move aimed at enhancing its defense capabilities, the Ethiopian Air Force has recently taken delivery of a fleet of modern Su-30 fighter jets and strategic drones. Jun 30, 2021 · A Lockheed Hercules of the Ethiopian Air Force has been destroyed in an accident near Gijet, Ethiopia. The USAF isn't ready to give up on the Raptor just yet. The Su-35s will replace Ethiopia’s ageing fleet of Su-27s, which have served since the late 1990s. The ETAF is tasked with protecting the national air space, providing support to ground forces, as well as assisting civil operations during war. The new jet will replace the older MiG-23 aircraft of the Ethiopian Air Force, which form the backbone of the nation's fighter fleet along with the more powerful Su-27 Flanker. The agreement, signed on August 19, positions Egypt as the second country to operate these Chinese-built fighters, following Pakistan. This includes a fleet of 18 Su-27 Flankers armed with R-27 air to air missiles, and a further 18 MiG-23 swept wing fighters with the same armament The air force's tactical organization included seven fighter-ground attack squadrons, one transport squadron, and one training squadron. Following the publication of leaked documents confirming that the Ethiopian Air Force will procure at least six Su-35 fighter aircraft from Russia, significant questions have been raised regarding the implications of the acquisitions for the balance of power in East Africa. Sukhoi SU27 fighter plane crashed immediately after takeoff from the Debrezeit air force base, Ethiopia’s main air force base located 50 km Southeast of Addis Ababa, killing two pilots. Both pilots, instructors, and trainee died in the crash. Jul 3, 2013 · Photo -Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets – Ethiopia Eighteen Su-30K fighter jets that India returned to Russia, probably will not be sold to Vietnam, but instead is Ethiopia. Although most of these aircraft are currently inoperable. If finalized, this acquisition would hold significant strategic relevance for the region. Walter Dorn Originally published as Chapter 2 in Air Power in UN Operations: Wings for Peace, (A. The Ethiopian Air Force announced that it had received two Su-30K fighters. Although, some African Air Forces possess their own Surface to Air (SAM) missile defence or Anti-Ballistic missiles and Anti-Aircraft Artillery (AAA) such as Egypt. Mar 9, 2025 · The Ethiopian Air Force has undergone a significant transformation, acquiring advanced fighter jets, armed drones, and surveillance systems, marking a shift toward high-tech warfare and improved aerial dominance. 5 generation fighter jets is part of a broader shift from focusing on Oct 13, 2019 · Ethiopian Air Force military Sukhoi Su-27 crashed upon takeoff as a result of an engine fire. The ceremony of introducing the first two aircraft into the country's Air Force took place on January 16, 2024. The post, in Amharic, translates, “Ethiopian Air Force has identified and destroyed three strategic places located in Mekelle, capital of Tigray region”. In this article by Negussay Ayele from Tadias Online there is more on Robinson He completed his pilot’s training and earned his wings from Booker T. How many fighter jets does Eritrea have? The Eritrean air force has only 350 regular personnel. Jan 24, 2024 · One of Ethiopia’s Sukhoi Su-30K fighters at Harar Meda Airport in Bishoftu province. Jul 22, 2017 · Ethiopian air force hero legesse teferra rose to prominance during 1976/77ethio-somalia war in which he destroyed five MIG fighter plane of somalia in an air to air combat. Ethiopian Air Force received two old variants of the Russian-built Su-30 fighter jets. I think numerically our air force is lacking, especially in specialist interceptors but modern jets are incredibly costly. Jan 17, 2024 · Ethiopian Air Force disclosed yesterday that it has equipped itself with modern Su-30 fighter jets and strategic combat drones. This article delves into the strengths and development of the Ethiopian Air Force, exploring its historical background, current capabilities, modernization efforts, challenges, and future outlook. MPower - Ethiopian Air ForceEthiopian Air Force (Air Force) Two Eritrean jets attempted to mount an ambush for an Ethiopian fighter plane. ), Ashgate Publishing, Farnham, UK, 2014, pp. Its main mission is to defend Ethiopian airspace and provide ground forces support. Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa, Commander of the Ethiopian Air Force, highlighted the reinforcement of the service with contemporary manpower, weapons, and combat infrastructure. Oct 5, 2025 · Ethiopia - Su-35 The Ethiopian Air Force placed an order for six Russian-made Su-35 multirole fighter jets. Army General Air Force Commander Field Marshal Birhanu Jula explained that the move comes amid Ethiopia’s push to modernize all Aug 17, 2025 · In order to enhance the modern combat effectiveness of the army, the Egyptian military has successively purchased 15 Su-27 fighter jets from Russia and Ukraine, making the Egyptian Air Force the most modern air force in East Africa. About the video : The Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) is the aerial branch of the Ethiopian National Defense Force. The ETAF is tasked with protecting the national air space, The reported agreement for Egypt to buy the Chinese Chengdu J-10C 4. The Su-30 is a multirole fighter. In recent years‚ the Ethiopian Air Force has acquired a diverse range of modern aircraft‚ including fighter jets‚ transport aircraft‚ and helicopters․ Jun 4, 2024 · Ethiopia’s tiny air force, which in the early 2000s was in danger of implosion, spearheaded the December 2006 assault into southern Somalia to drive out Islamic Courts and their militia forces. This post on X (formerly Twitter) … Ethiopian Air Force (Ye Ityopya Ayer Hayl, ETAF) By 1991, some 4,500 officers and airmen operated approximately 150 combat aircraft, most of them Soviet-manufactured fighter-bombers. Fixed-wing and rotary-wing (helicopters) aircraft types are factored in from all branches of service (Air Force, Army Aviation, Navy, Marine). Here's a quick look at what makes Ethiopia’s aerial force a rising power: 103 aircraft total including 25 fighters, 34 trainers, and 33 helicopters, as per the Global Force Power Index; Key suppliers: Russia, US, France Feb 9, 2022 · The Ethiopian Air Force might become China’s second export client for the L-15 fighter jet after the Defence Ministry allegedly made an order in 2021. Orders for Su-35s follow the procurement of at least two Su-30 twin seat fighters in early 2024, which are expected to Jan 18, 2024 · The Ethiopian Armed Forces reported on the ceremony of commissioning two Su-30 "first generation" fighters into the Ethiopian Air Force on January 16, 2024 (April 7, 2016 according to Ethiopian chronology). Aug 30, 2018 · An Ethiopian Air Force de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter plane crashed with 18 people onboard near east Shoa zone, Oromia ( Ethiopia) Preliminary reports indicated that a DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft crashed in Ethiopia. Jun 26, 2025 · The Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) (Amharic: የኢትዮጵያ አየር ኃይል, romanized: Ye-Ītyōṗṗyā āyer ḫayil) is the air service branch of the Ethiopian National Defence Force. Ranking total aircraft fleet strength by country, from highest to lowest. The first two aircraft were delivered to Ethiopian pilots in January 2024, marking a significant boost in the country’s air capabilities. One of the many Ethiopian Air Force aircraft which landed in Djibouti during the internal political crisis of Ethiopia at this time. The design team wrapped a small, highly aerodynamic fighter around two compact General Electric The fighter jets are believed to be part of an 18-unit batch manufactured for the Indian Air Force and delivered between 1997 and 1999. ISBN 978-0-7106 The SU-27 is a decent jet, it's still in use by Russia, Ukraine, china, India etc. Yilma Merdassa. The Su-35 is the only ‘4++ generation’ fighter in Africa, and is the heaviest fighter on the continent designed with an air to Hobbylinc carries 8 ethiopian air force fighter jets and helicopters plastic models from 3 manufacturers. Ethiopian fighter jets bombed parts of the main airport in Somalia's capital Mogadishu and a second airport held by the Somali Islamist movement about 100 kilometers to the west. In 2008 the Ethiopia Air Force used its one operational C-130 to transport its peacekeepers to peacekeeping missions in Africa. It currently mainly operates Russian aircraft. Thus, the Johnson administration proceeded with the delivery of the F-5 Freedom Fighter squadron during the latter half of 1966 and completed the transaction in 1967. #airforce #militarytiktok #ethiopianmilitary Oct 14, 2025 · Addis Ababa had already begun modernizing its Air Force with the purchase of Russian-made Su-30K fighters. Jane's Information Group; 35 edition (January 27, 2009). 17-39. It is stated that this is the "first batch" of Su-30 aircraft being received. The Amharic text translation reads, “Breaking News: the Ethiopian Air Force L 39 fighter jet crashed in the Oromia region yesterday. Military and civilian aircraft throughout the history of Ethiopia. Images from the ceremony showed a pair of Su-30 fighter jets, bearing tail numbers 2401 and 2402, which have recently been transferred to Ethiopia. Jan 19, 2024 · The Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) announced that it has acquired Russian Sukhoi Su-30K combat aircrafts and Akinci Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from Turkey as it continues with modernisation efforts. Jan 16, 2024 · Addis Ababa (Diplomat. The Block 52 F-16 s Mar 19, 2024 · Algeria and Angola follow with 605 and 297 aircraft stock respectively. Jane's Infantry Weapons 2009/2010. 6 days ago · Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 737 MAX Order Dubai Airshow 2025: Africa's Largest Carrier Expands Fleet with 11 New Jets Dubai, November 18 - In a bold move signaling robust confidence in aviation growth across the continent, Ethiopian Airlines has firmed up its option for 11 additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft at the ongoing Dubai Airshow 2025. Feb 5, 2022 · Military watch || The Ethiopian Air Force is reportedly set to become the second export client for China’s L-15 lightweight fighter jet, after the Defence Ministry reportedly placed an order for the aircraft in 2021. The official handover ceremony, attended by high-ranking military officials such as Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, and Air Force Commander, Lt. Forces by Role & Equipment by Type Jan 18, 2024 · The Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) incorporated the Su-30K combat aircraft during a ceremony on January 16. Several of the abandoned MiG-21s, which were captured from the Ethiopian Air Force, are believed to be no longer in service. An instructor and a trainee pilot were flying the Russian Dec 10, 2021 · The Ethiopian military would also be able to use its meagre air force of 22 MiG-23 and Su-27 fighter jets and 18 Hind attack helicopters to greater effect as the intelligence of the intended Oct 13, 2019 · Ethiopian Air Force military Sukhoi Su-27 crashed upon takeoff as a result of an engine fire. Nov 22, 2020 · One important element in a fighter’s effectiveness is the quality of its electronic warfare (EW) suite. Currently equipped with around 82 aircraft of various types Ethiopian Air Force Insignia fighter 14 Aug 18, 2017 · The Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF); Amharic: የኢትዮጵያ አየር ሃይል, Ye Ithopya Ayer Hayl, is the air arm of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces and is tasked with protecting the air space, providing support to the ground forces as well as assisting during national emergencies. 24, 2006, Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker fighter-bombers hit strategic targets and even struck ground troops while at least 3,000 Ethiopian soldiers—8,000 according to the United Nations Jan 17, 2024 · One of two new Su-30 combat aircraft received by Ethiopia on 16 January. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s efforts to reestablish a naval presence, despite its landlocked status, underscore a broader strategic vision. It can serve as an air superiority fighter and as a strike fighter. The service currently counts 88 total units in its active aircraft inventory. ‘Yod’ to become first Ethiopian-Israeli air force pilot Airman to serve as fighter jet navigator upon completing grueling pilots course later this week Jun 30, 2021 · A Lockheed Hercules of the Ethiopian Air Force has been destroyed in an accident near Gijet, Ethiopia. they have two Su-27 and 12 MiG-29 fighters that were engaged in the war against Ethiopia, too, as well as 20 various light aircraft for training, four Mi-17 and four Bell 412EP Twin Huey helicopters. The Swiss air force’s 2008 evaluation report of the Gripen, Rafale and Typhoon was leaked, revealing that the Saab aircraft has ‘strong’ electronic warfare capabilities. This cost-effectiveness allows African nations to maintain a capable air force without breaking the bank. Known Ethiopian AF An-12s c/ns are The Ethiopian Air Force is the air force of Ethiopia and the branch of the Ethiopian National Defence Force. [9] Apr 27, 2022 · This post a Facebook user claims shows the Ethiopian Air Force fighter jet crash in the Oromia region is FALSE. Jul 1, 2022 · Primed and ready Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) scrambled multiple fighter jets in response to an incursion by Sudanese ground troops in the border region. Provides information, drawings and pictures of the world's military aircraft. 339s), but, there were not enough pilots for all the available planes to go around. Global Firepower tracks total air service strength for each national power taken into consideration for the annual GFP ranking. Oct 4, 2024 · A third Facebook post claims “Su-27 fighter jets have begun entering Mogadishu Ethiopian troops that would engulf Somalia have arrived”. and later sixth plane that Ranking total aircraft fleet strength by country, from highest to lowest. According to the Ministry of Defense, the Ethiopian Air Force has received the first batch of Russian Su-30 "first generation" fighters. There are two main models: the original F-5A and F-5B Freedom Fighter variants, and the extensively updated F-5E and F-5F Tiger II variants. Approximately seventy-nine helicopters performed Sep 24, 2024 · 17 African air forces bought this tiny jet: here’s why they love it The L-39 is significantly cheaper than other legacy trainers and light attack aircraft. Ethiopia Like the Angolan Air Force, the Ethiopian Air Force was built up rapidly at a time of war, in this case with Eritrea in the 1990s, to provide air strikes and reconnaissance over its smaller neighbour and to engage enemy fighters if needed. The Northrop F-5 is a family of supersonic light fighter aircraft initially designed as a privately funded project in the late 1950s by Northrop Corporation. Yilma Merdasa, announced that the Air Force will continue to receive support from weapons, trained troops, and combat gear. Jan 20, 2024 · The Kremlin tries its best to stay afloat in the global arms market Ethiopian Air Force has announced a receipt of two Su-30K fighter jets, the aircraft have board numbers 2401 and 2402. Over the weekend, Sudan and Ethiopia forces clashed at the disputed al-Fashaga border after the attack that killed seven soldiers. Headquartered in 4. A large number of retired Ethiopian Air Force Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 fighter jets in storage at Harar Meda airport. Interestingly, Addis Ababa does not disclose where it bought the combat jets from, as well as the terms of the contract. Mar 30, 2022 · Moreover, Washington had run out of stalling tactics as the Ethiopian Air Force was ready to receive the jets. Ethiopian Airforce,Ethiopian defence force,ethiopian defence force news today Oct 25, 2016 · Robinson’s place in Ethiopian history is assured — he helped establish a civilian air service, which became the kernel of what is now Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa’s largest and most successful air services. The number on the aircraft just shows 2904. The two jets are likely Su-30MK/K jets, originally built for India. Historical Background The Fifty MiG-17s were donated by the Soviets, while 29 MiG-21MFs were purchased by the Somali government. She received training on single-propeller aircraft, and later earned a scholarship to study at the United States Air Force Academy. Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF): Ground Forces, Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) Active 138,000 Personnel (Army 135,000 Air 3,000) Note: Ethiopia is landlocked and has no navy; following the secession of Eritrea (1993), Ethiopian naval facilities remained in Eritrean possession ETHIOPIAN AIR FORCE (EAF) • Ye Ithopya Ayer Hayl Air Force 3,000 personnel. 51K subscribers Subscribed Peacekeepers in Combat: Fighter Jets and Bombers in the Congo, 1961–1963 by A. Feb 25, 2025 · In recent days, unofficial reports have emerged pointing to a potential sale of new J-10CE fighter jets by China to equip the Sudanese Air Force. 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). Jan 16, 2024 · In a rare public announcement following a recent military confrontation with neighboring Somalia over a port dispute, the Ethiopian army disclosed its acquisition of a state-of-the-art Su-30 fighter jet and a strategic combat drone. [citation needed] Asli Hassan Abade was the first female pilot in the Somali Air Force. Credit: Ethiopian Defense Force Ethiopia has acquired a pair of Russian-made Sukhoi Su-30 fourth-generation Apr 25, 2023 · Ethiopian Air Force Su-27 fighter jet / Photo credit: Spotters/Griffon The above-described confrontation between post-Soviet Su-27 and MiG-29 aircraft, which are part of the arsenal of the Ukrainian Armed Forces (albeit in such an "exotic" context), clearly demonstrates why Ukraine needs F-16s (or other modern Western fighters). The Ethiopian Armed Forces, encompassing the Land Forces, Air Force, and Naval Forces, possess a diverse array of equipment, ranging from tanks and armored vehicles to fighter jets and naval vessels․ The country's arsenal is a testament to its efforts to modernize and maintain a robust military force․ Dec 22, 2023 · Updated Su-27UBK of the Ethiopian Air Force - Photo taken at Debre Zeyit - Harar Meda (QHR / HAHM) in Ethiopia in 2023. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r Jones, Richard D. Camouflage and painting schemes - original drawings. Deputy Group Director arms exporter Rosoboron Export, Alexander Mikheyev, said that Russia is negotiating to supply 18 Su-30K fighters to Ethiopia. Lastly, having operational transport aircraft enhances the capability of the Ethiopian Air Force to respond to humanitarian crises (drought and/or flooding) in the Ogaden region and elsewhere in Oct 15, 2025 · According to the same leaked document that outlined Russia’s plans to supply Iran with 48 Su-35S fighters, Moscow also reportedly planned the sale of up to six new aircraft of the same model to the Ethiopian Air Force — a deal that has not yet been officially confirmed. The Northrop F-5A and F-5E aircraft were proven superior to Dec 19, 2017 · The term “Air Force” may refer to a combination of various aircrafts and rotorcrafts like bombers, fighter jets, helicopters, Trainers, Transport aircraft and others. The acquisition makes Ethiopia the fourth African nation to operate the Russian-made jets, following Algeria, Angola, and Uganda. May 31, 2022 · The Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) of around 5,000 personnel flies 20 Russian-built Su-27 fighter jets, and 10 MiG-23 fighter bombers. so) - The Ethiopian army has disclosed its acquisition of a cutting-edge Su-30 fighter jet and an advanced combat drone. An instructor and a trainee pilot were flying the Russian Dec 10, 2021 · The Ethiopian military would also be able to use its meagre air force of 22 MiG-23 and Su-27 fighter jets and 18 Hind attack helicopters to greater effect as the intelligence of the intended Jan 17, 2024 · The Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) has acquired Akinci unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from Turkey and Russian Sukhoi Su-30K combat aircraft as it continues with modernisation efforts. The United States played a significant role in the modernization of Emperor Haile Selassie’s Air Force by providing advanced aircraft and equipment to counteract Soviet assistance in Somalia. Jan 22, 2022 · Ethiopian Air Force 2021 | Ethiopia Air Force Power (All Weapons)The Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) (Amharic: የኢትዮጵያ አየር ኀይል, Ye Ithopya A yer Hayl) is the air f Jan 20, 2024 · Ethiopian Air Force has announced a receipt of two Su-30K fighter jets, the aircraft have board numbers 2401 and 2402. Jul 17, 2025 · Primed and ready Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) scrambled multiple fighter jets in response to an incursion by Sudanese ground troops Dec 22, 2023 · Updated Su-27UBK of the Ethiopian Air Force - Photo taken at Debre Zeyit - Harar Meda (QHR / HAHM) in Ethiopia in 2023. If finalized, the acquisition would represent a major step forward in the modernization of Ethiopia’s combat fleet and The MiG-21 jet fighter was a continuation of Soviet jet fighters, starting with the subsonic MiG-15 and MiG-17, and the supersonic MiG-19. 1 day ago · Mogadishu (HOL) — Egypt has secured a deal with China to acquire advanced J-10C fighter jets, a major step in modernizing its military amid ongoing tensions with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) (Amharic: የኢትዮጵያ አየር ኃይል, romanized: Ye-Ītyōṗṗyā āyer ḫayil) is the air service branch of the Ethiopian National Defence Force. The Federal Air Force’s Commander-in-Chief, Lt. Also like Angola, Ethiopian aircraft were initially flown by foreign pilots, contractors from the former Soviet Union, although they have since Jan 19, 2024 · Ethiopia receives two ex-Indian Su-30K fighter jets from Russia. Another detail is the livery, contrasting with the common one in the Ethiopian Air Force Jan 16, 2024 · “The Federal Air Force is equipped with the most modern first round Su-30 fighter jets and strategic drones,” he stated. Jan 19, 2024 · Ethiopia’s acquisition of the Su-30 fighter jet marks a significant milestone, positioning the country as the fourth African operator of this Russian-made aircraft. It is thought to be c/n 5342904 (Tashkent built) but could be c/n 402904 (Voronezh built). Despite remaining the unquestioned apex predator of the TACAIR (tactical aircraft) world, the Lockheed Martin (LM) F-22 Raptors of the US Air Force are aging. The main airbase is at Asmara International Airport, which is a combined civil/military Apr 19, 2025 · Ethiopia’s Air Power Takes Off: A Force to Watch in Africa’s Skies The Ethiopian Air Force, one of the most formidable on the continent, is growing stronger and smarter. It was intended as a direct competitor for the large US fourth-generation jet fighters such as the Grumman F-14 Tomcat and McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle, with 3,530-kilometre (1,910 nmi) range, heavy aircraft ordnance Until the acquisition of the Pantsir, the defence of Ethiopian airspace relied overwhelmingly on the country’s sizeable Air Force - which deploys the second largest fleet of high end heavy air superiority fighters in Africa other than Algeria. The c/n has not been confirmed. And it's from the same generation as the f16, 30 years isn't too old and with upgrades if the electronics)avionics it can be serviceable for decades more. The C-130E Hercules – serial 1564 (c/n 382-3822), belonging to 15 Squadron at Debre Aug 30, 2024 · The Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) (Amharic: የኢትዮጵያ አየር ኃይል, romanized:Ye-Ītyōṗṗyā āyer ḫayil) is the air service branch of the Ethiopian National Defence Force. Aug 26, 2021 · The Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) was heavily engaged in the conflict, intercepting Eritrean MiG-29s with Su-27s and striking Eritrean ground positions using MiG-21bis and MiG-23BN fighter-bombers. Feb 5, 2022 · Ethiopia appears to become the second largest export customer for China's L-15 light fighter after Zambia, according to Military Watch Magazine. To protect it’s sky, Ethiopia recently acquired Russian-made Pantsir S1 short range surface to air missile defense system, a Pantsir S1 SAM was displayed during an Ethiopian Defense Day celebration held at the May 24, 2024 · Explore the cutting-edge Ethiopian Air Force aircraft models and advancements, their pivotal role in national security, and future modernization plans. Ethiopia’s Su-27s are today outperformed by a number of African fighters including the Su-30 jets deployed by Algeria, Angola and Uganda, the MiG-29M jets deployed by Egypt, and the Su-35 which the Egyptian Air Force will begin to receive by the end of 2020. 19 Jan, 2024 7:14 | Defense News Aerospace 2024 As reported on Russian social media on January 17, 2024, the Ethiopian Air Force has received two Su-30K fighter jets, raising questions and interest due to the history and background of these aircraft. The deal was revealed through leaked documents from the Russian state defense company, Rostec. Unconfirmed reports suggest the aircraft was downed by the Tigray Defense Forces (TDF) during the armed conflict known as the Tigray War that started in November 2020 between Ethiopia and the Tigray Region. The ceremony wa Jan 18, 2024 · The Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) incorporated the Su-30K combat aircraft during a ceremony on January 16. Gen. Dive into the world of Ethiopian air power. (FDRE Defense Force) Ethiopia has received new Sukhoi Su-30 ‘Flanker' fighters and Baykar Bayraktar Akıncı armed Colonel Robinson commanded The Ethiopian Air force and actively participated in reconnaissance mission for the Ethiopian Army during the Italian invasion. Jul 31, 2024 · ALTERED: This image does not show the Somali Air Force in Ethiopian airspace The original image shows Indonesian Air Force acquisition of 42 Fighter Jets in 2022. Development of what would become the MiG-21 began in the The Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) has evolved significantly over the decades, reflecting the country's strategic needs, geopolitical context, and technological advancements. The Su-27, short for Sukhoi Su-27, is a Russian-made fighter aircraft used by the Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF). The aircraft are expected to replace the country’s ageing fleet of MiG-23 variable swept wing third generation fighters, which form Dec 18, 2018 · Lt. Oct 8, 2025 · Ethiopia has confirmed the purchase of six Su-35 fighter jets from Russia, marking the country’s most significant air force upgrade in three decades. Jun 25, 2025 · Ethiopian Air Force - full up-to-date inventory: aircraft fleet, helicopters, fighters, bombers, and aviation capabilities as of 2025. Ethiopia, which has one of the most capable air forces in Africa, operates a fleet of Su Oct 22, 2025 · Aircraft Matrix Aircraft List Ethiopian Air Force Last updated on Oct 22, 2025 Apr 9, 2022 · The Ethiopian Air Force will replace MiG-23s with the Chinese L-15 Falcon Light Fighter Jet as part of its upgrades. Another detail is the livery, contrasting with the common The tally was not independently confirmed. Jan 17, 2024 · Ethiopia received Russian Su-30 fighter jets into service; the ceremony of introducing the first two aircraft into the country's Air Force took place last Tuesday, January 16, 2024. Oct 12, 2025 · The technical prowess of the Su-35 elevates Ethiopia's Ethiopian Air Force (EAF) to unprecedented heights, transforming it from a defensive relic into a formidable predator capable of dominating East Africa's skies. Hobbylinc carries 2 italeri ethiopian air force fighter jets and helicopters. Oct 7, 2025 · At the beginning of this year, four Air force pilots, namely, MIG-23 fighter jet pilot Captain Gezakegn Derese; MI-35 Helicopter pilot Captain Daniel Girma; MI-35 Helicopter pilot Lieutenant Masresha Sette, and MI-35 Helicopter pilotBruk Atnae, have defected to Kenya. The force is tasked with protecting the national Oct 13, 2019 · The Ethiopian Air Force currently operate thirteen Su-27 flankers for air defence, ten MiG-23 flogger fighter/bomber, thirty-nine Su-25 Frogfoot ground attack aircraft and forty-eight MiG-21 Fishbed fighter jet. The design team wrapped a small, highly aerodynamic fighter around two compact General Electric Aug 17, 2025 · In order to enhance the modern combat effectiveness of the army, the Egyptian military has successively purchased 15 Su-27 fighter jets from Russia and Ukraine, making the Egyptian Air Force the most modern air force in East Africa. A number of experimental Mach 2 Soviet designs were based on nose intakes with either swept-back wings, such as the Sukhoi Su-7, or tailed deltas, of which the MiG-21 would be the most successful. Oct 12, 2025 · Addis Ababa, October 12 - In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the corridors of East African geopolitics, Ethiopia's covert acquisition of six advanced Russian Su-35 fighter jets from state-owned Rostec has emerged as a game-changer in regional air power dynamics. The Ethiopian National Defence Force said the Su-30K aircraft were introduced into service during a ceremony on Tuesday Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for the latest Ethiopian military news. Walter Dorn, Ed. Jan 17, 2024 · The Ethiopian Air Force has taken delivery of new combat aircraft and drones, commissioning them into service at an event this week. It has a two-seat cockpit with an airbrake behind the canopy. The original force was composed of abandoned Ethiopian Air Force aircraft that were left shortly after Eritrea's War of Independence. However, the Su-27 not only managed to extricate itself from the trap, but also put one of the attackers out of action. The Ethiopian National Defence Force said the Su-30K aircraft were introduced into service during a ceremony on Tuesday 16 January. Categories include airplanes, and ships. Popular manufacturers are Academy, Italeri and AMP. A small development and evolution of the Ethiopian Air Force, especially in the post World War II era. Established in 1929, it is one of the oldest air forces in Africa. MIG-23 FIGHTER JET AND ETHIOPIAN AIR FORCE የኢትዮጵያ አየር ሀይል አስደናቂው ተዋጊ ጀት Ethio Sidenote 1. In 1953, Ethiopia’s Air Force signed a defense agreement with the United States, getting a squadron of F-86 fighters in 1960. The Sukhoi Su-27 (Russian: Сухой Су-27; NATO reporting name: Flanker) is a Soviet -origin twin-engine supersonic supermaneuverable fighter aircraft designed by Sukhoi. (pdf version) The United Nations Operation in the Congo (ONUC) was the largest, most complex, and most expensive UN peacekeeping mission of the Cold Ethiopian Air Force had an advantage of 10:1 in aircraft (and her MiG-21s and MiG-23s were certainly more suitable for air-to-air and air-to-ground operations than small Eritrean MB. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Ethiopia Su-35 - Egypt The Egyptian Air Force placed an order for an estimated 26 Su-35 fighters in 2018, providing the country with its first high end heavyweight combat jets after decades of relying on low end lightweight fighters armed with effectively obsolete weaponry.