Belize Defence Force Air Wing

Key facts

Official Name Belize Defence Force Air Wing
Country๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ฟ Belize
World rank#147
Active aircraft3 as of 2026
Aircraft on order0

Global Air Force Index

1.3
Global Rank: #147 / 162
The Global Air Force Index measures Belize Defence Force Air Wing'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 1 Attack, transport & utility rotorcraft
๐Ÿ›ซ Transport 2 Strategic & tactical airlift
๐Ÿ“Š Total Active 3 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
Transport Transport 2
Helicopter Helicopter 1

Origin countries of aircraft

Country Active Aircraft
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ United States 2
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง United Kingdom 1

Evolution of Belizean Air Force fleet

Overview

The Belize Air Force, officially known as the Belize Defence Force Air Wing, is the aerial warfare branch of the Belize Defence Force. Established in 1983, it is a relatively small air force with limited capabilities. The Air Wing operates a modest fleet of aircraft, primarily consisting of helicopters. Currently, the primary helicopter in service is the Bell UH-1H, which is employed for various roles including search and rescue, transportation, and reconnaissance. The air force also operates a small number of light aircraft for light transport and surveillance purposes. The Belize Air Force is primarily focused on supporting the overall defense capabilities of Belize, a small Central American nation. In addition to its military missions, the Air Wing also assists in civilian operations such as disaster relief and environmental protection. While the Belize Air Force may lack the advanced equipment and extensive capabilities of larger air forces, it plays a vital role in ensuring the security and safety of the country.

Full inventory in 2026

Belize Defence Force

Frequently Asked Questions

How many aircraft does Belize have?
Belize Defence Force Air Wing operates 3 active military aircraft as of the current year. Additionally, 0 aircraft are currently on order.
How does Belize's air force rank globally?
Belize Defence Force Air Wing ranks #147 out of 162 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 Belize have?
Belize Defence Force Air Wing operates 1 military helicopters, including attack, transport, and utility rotorcraft used for various combat and support missions.
What is the Air Force Index of Belize?
Belize has an Air Force Index score of 1.3 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 Belize get its military aircraft from?
Belize sources its military aircraft primarily from United States and United Kingdom. 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