Beninese Air Force

Key facts

Official Name Beninese Air Force
Local Name Force Aรฉrienne du Bรฉnin
Country๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ฏ Benin
World rank#143
Active aircraft5 as of 2026
Aircraft on order0
Roundel

Roundel of Benin air force

Global Air Force Index

1.6
Global Rank: #143 / 161
The Global Air Force Index measures the Beninese Air Force's overall air power capability on a 0-100 scale, based on fleet composition and combat effectiveness.
๐Ÿ’ฅ Strategic Bombers 0 Nuclear-capable strike aircraft (highest weight)
โœˆ๏ธ Combat Aircraft 0 Fighters, multirole & attack aircraft
๐Ÿš Helicopters 5 Attack, transport & utility rotorcraft
๐Ÿ›ซ Transport 0 Strategic & tactical airlift
๐Ÿ“Š Total Active 5 All aircraft types

Methodology: Square root scaled index weighted by aircraft combat capability. Strategic bombers score highest due to nuclear strike capability.

Aircraft by type in 2026

Aircraft type Active
Helicopter Helicopter 5

Origin countries of aircraft

Country Active Aircraft
๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท France 5

Evolution of Beninese Air Force fleet

Overview

The Benin Air Force, formally known as the Armรฉe de l'Air du Bรฉnin, is the aerial warfare branch of the Benin National Defence Force. Established on January 15, 1961, following the country's independence from France, the Air Force initially relied on a small fleet of donated aircraft. Over the years, it has undergone significant development and expansion. As of 2021, the Benin Air Force operates a modest fleet that primarily consists of transport and light utility aircraft, including the Embraer EMB 314 Super Tucano, Cessna 208 Caravan, and Eurocopter AS350 ร‰cureuil. The Air Force's main functions include providing air support to ground forces, conducting aerial surveillance and reconnaissance missions, transporting troops and cargo, and assisting in search and rescue operations. In recent years, there has been a focus on enhancing the capabilities and efficiency of the Benin Air Force through various training programs and equipment acquisitions. It maintains partnerships with several countries for training and operational assistance, allowing for better interoperability with regional and international organizations.

Full inventory in 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How many aircraft does Benin have?
Benin Air Force operates 5 active military aircraft as of the current year. Additionally, 0 aircraft are currently on order.
How does Benin's air force rank globally?
Benin Air Force ranks #143 out of 161 air forces worldwide based on the Global Air Force Index, which measures overall air power capability considering fleet size and combat effectiveness.
How many military helicopters does Benin have?
Benin Air Force operates 5 military helicopters, including attack, transport, and utility rotorcraft used for various combat and support missions.
What is the Air Force Index of Benin?
Benin has an Air Force Index score of 1.6 out of 100. This composite score measures overall air power capability, with strategic bombers weighted highest due to their nuclear strike potential, followed by combat aircraft, helicopters, and transport planes.
Where does Benin get its military aircraft from?
Benin sources its military aircraft primarily from France. The fleet composition reflects both domestic production capabilities and international defense partnerships.
Various public data, including Wikipedia, Flightglobal.com, SIPRI Arms Transfer and official government websites.
Last updated on 1 January 2025. Suggest a change