Air Force and Anti-Aircraft Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Air Force and Air Defence Brigade of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a component of the unified Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina, formed in 2006 from the former warring factions' air arms. Its command is located in Sarajevo, with operational units distributed between airbases at Sarajevo and Banja Luka. The brigade's structure includes a 1st Helicopter Squadron at Banja Luka operating Mi-8T and Gazelle helicopters, and a 2nd Helicopter Squadron at Sarajevo flying UH-1H and Mi-8/17 helicopters. Ground-based elements consist of an Air Defence Battalion, an Early Warning and Surveillance Battalion, and a Flight Support Battalion.

The force's operational capabilities are centered on non-combat roles. Its strategic doctrine, outlined in the Defence White Paper of Bosnia and Herzegovina, prioritizes support for civilian authorities in crisis situations, participation in international peace support operations, and ensuring the country's territorial integrity. Core tasks include medical evacuation, law enforcement support, border control assistance, and disaster relief. The force structure lacks fixed-wing combat aircraft, limiting its capabilities to transport, reconnaissance, and limited fire support from its helicopter assets. Interoperability with NATO is a stated long-term goal.