Air Force of the Republic of Congo

Key facts

Official Name Air Force of the Republic of Congo
Local Name Force Aรฉrienne Congolaise
Country๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Congo
World rank#131
Active aircraft14 as of 2026
Aircraft on order0
Roundel

Roundel of Congo air force

Global Air Force Index

2.1
Global Rank: #131 / 161
The Global Air Force Index measures Air Force of the Republic of Congo'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 2 Fighters, multirole & attack aircraft
๐Ÿš Helicopters 8 Attack, transport & utility rotorcraft
๐Ÿ›ซ Transport 4 Strategic & tactical airlift
๐Ÿ“Š Total Active 14 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 8
Transport Transport 4
Combat Combat 2

Origin countries of aircraft

Country Active Aircraft
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ Ex-USSR 9
๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท France 2
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Ukraine 2
๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ Spain 1
๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ Indonesia 1

Evolution of Congolese Air Force fleet

Overview

The Congo Air Force, officially known as the Forces Aรฉriennes Congolaises (FAC), is the aerial warfare branch of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Established on June 30, 1960, along with the country's independence from Belgium, it has played a crucial role in protecting the nation's sovereignty. The Air Force operates a diverse fleet of aircraft, including transport planes, helicopters, and fighter jets. Over the years, the Congo Air Force has faced various challenges, including periods of civil unrest and armed conflicts. Despite these challenges, it has strived to maintain its operational capabilities and fulfill its missions, such as reconnaissance, air defense, and providing air support to ground forces. The Congo Air Force has also participated in regional peacekeeping missions, showcasing its commitment to stability in the African continent. Through training programs and partnerships with other countries, the FAC aims to enhance its capabilities and ensure the defense of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Full inventory in 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How many aircraft does Congo have?
Air Force of the Republic of Congo operates 14 active military aircraft as of the current year. Additionally, 0 aircraft are currently on order.
How does Congo's air force rank globally?
Air Force of the Republic of Congo ranks #131 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 combat aircraft does Congo operate?
Congo operates 2 combat aircraft, including fighters, multirole jets, and attack aircraft. These form the core of its offensive and defensive air capabilities.
How many military helicopters does Congo have?
Air Force of the Republic of Congo operates 8 military helicopters, including attack, transport, and utility rotorcraft used for various combat and support missions.
What is the Air Force Index of Congo?
Congo has an Air Force Index score of 2.1 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 Congo get its military aircraft from?
Congo sources its military aircraft primarily from Ex-USSR, France, and Ukraine. 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