Dominican Air Force

The Fuerza Aérea de República Dominicana (FARD) is structured to support the primary mission of transport and logistics for land forces, with secondary roles in observation patrols, search and rescue, and counter-narcotics operations. Its organizational framework consists of several operational squadrons, including ground attack, transport/utility, search-and-rescue, and training, primarily operating from the San Isidro Air Base. A second base operates from facilities at Gregorio Luperón International Airport, and a southern command has been established at Barahona airport with U.S. support.

The force is integrating recently acquired Leonardo AW169 helicopters, with the first two of four arriving in March 2024, to be used for search and rescue, disaster response, and combating illegal trafficking. Pilots and engineers have received training from the manufacturer. In February 2024, the United States donated aircraft, including Cessna 208B Grand Caravan models, to support counter-narcotics and humanitarian assistance missions. The FARD also became the first military operator of the Tecnam MMA surveillance aircraft, acquired in 2016 for maritime observation. The United States has also committed to supplying 10 ex-U.S. Navy T-34C Turbo Mentor trainers, although a delivery timeline has not been announced. These acquisitions provide targeted upgrades to the FARD's surveillance, mobility, and patrol functions rather than expanding its limited air combat power.