Top 10 african countries with the largest military aircraft fleets in 2025

Military aircraft play a critical role in a country’s defense and security strategies, ensuring sovereignty, addressing security challenges, and responding to emergencies. 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 are indispensable for maintaining peace, protecting territorial integrity, and addressing pressing security issues. Fighter jets and attack helicopters, for instance, are crucial in countering terrorism, armed insurgencies, and cross-border conflicts. They allow governments to respond swiftly and decisively to hostile activities while also serving as a deterrent by showcasing a country’s defensive capabilities.

Beyond combat operations, military aircraft are essential for surveillance and reconnaissance. Africa’s vast landmass, porous borders, and extensive coastlines demand constant monitoring to prevent illegal activities such as smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorism.

Military Aircraft in Africa: A 2025 Overview

Several African nations stand out for their impressive military aircraft fleets, encompassing fighters, bombers, transport planes, and helicopters. According to a recent report by Global Firepower, Egypt, Algeria, and Angola have retained their positions as the top three African countries with the largest military aircraft fleets.

• Egypt expanded its fleet by 13 aircraft, reinforcing its position at the top.
• Algeria added 3 aircraft to its inventory.
• Angola increased its fleet by 1 aircraft.

These fleets include fixed-wing and rotary-wing (helicopters) aircraft from all branches of service, including the Air Force, Army Aviation, Navy, and Marine forces. The report factors in various aircraft types, such as fighters, interceptors, trainers, transports, bombers, and special-mission platforms. Aircraft under development or on order are excluded from the rankings.

Africa’s Top 10 Military Aircraft Fleets in 2025

Below is a ranking of the top 10 African countries by military aircraft stock in 2025: