Cameroonian Air Force

The Cameroon Air Force (CAF), or Armée de l'Air du Cameroun, is structured to support ground forces, with a focus on transport, utility, and liaison duties. The force operates from three main air bases: Yaoundé, which serves as a helicopter and liaison hub; Douala for logistical and tactical transport; and Garoua, which is designated for attack and training missions. The base at Garoua is considered the most modern, reportedly built to NATO standards. The CAF's operational doctrine prioritizes internal security and ground support over air-to-air combat.

Capabilities are centered on light attack and surveillance, primarily for counter-insurgency (COIN) and close air support operations. A significant portion of the aircraft inventory is aging, which likely impacts serviceability and operational readiness. The combat element is modest, relying on a small number of armed trainer aircraft like the Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet. Transport assets have also experienced a decline. The CAF's strategic doctrine has not been formally updated since 1979 and is described as opaque.

In response to security threats, including the Boko Haram insurgency, Cameroon has undertaken some military modernization. This has involved increased military spending and personnel recruitment, partly financed through international counterterrorism assistance. Recent operational experience includes missions against Boko Haram, with CAF pilots flying close air support missions. These operations have been supported by U.S. intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets based in Garoua. This partnership provides Cameroonian forces with information to locate and engage enemy positions.