Air Force of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Air Force of the Democratic Republic of the Congo operates as a combat support element for the country's ground forces, primarily focused on internal security and counter-insurgency operations. Its strategic doctrine is shaped by the persistent conflict in the eastern provinces and enduring tensions with neighboring Rwanda. The force structure is modest and heavily reliant on a small, aging fleet of Soviet-era aircraft. The operational readiness of these assets is a persistent challenge, with maintenance and serviceability being significant constraints.

In late 2022 and early 2023, the air force was actively engaged in combat operations against the M23 rebel group in North Kivu province. Su-25 ground-attack aircraft conducted bombing raids against rebel-held territory. These operations have been politically sensitive, leading to diplomatic friction with Rwanda. A DRC Su-25 was damaged by a missile, allegedly fired from Rwanda in January 2023, after multiple accusations of airspace violations by Kigali. The air force has also relied on Mi-24 attack helicopters for fire support. To sustain these operations, the DRC has reportedly employed foreign mercenaries and contracted private companies for aerial reconnaissance tasks.

Modernization efforts are targeted and incremental, aiming to improve capabilities for ongoing internal conflicts. In late 2023, six Mi-24V helicopters and two Su-25 UB trainers were sent to Georgia for maintenance and upgrades. The helicopters are being refitted to the Mi-24 Mk IV standard, which includes reinforced armor and improved attack and observation systems, with a projected return to service in March 2024. The force also supplemented its helicopter fleet by acquiring four Mi-24s from Chad. Looking to the future, the DRC has entered discussions with India to potentially acquire the HAL Tejas Mk1 multi-role fighter to replace its legacy Su-25 and MiG-23 fleets, though no contract has been finalized.