Egyptian Air Force

The Egyptian Air Force (EAF) is a large and conventionally potent force, shaped by a unique history of transitioning from a Soviet-influenced structure to a diverse, multi-supplier model. Its primary doctrine has shifted from a traditionally defensive posture to a more preventative strategy, aimed at countering regional instability and transnational threats before they reach Egypt's borders. This is evident in its active engagement in counter-terrorism operations in the Sinai Peninsula and periodic airstrikes in neighboring Libya.

Structurally, the EAF is organized into air wings and brigades, a remnant of its Soviet-era legacy, with its headquarters in Cairo. It operates from approximately seventeen principal air bases spread strategically across the country. The force's operational capabilities are diverse, encompassing air superiority, ground attack, reconnaissance, and airlift missions. However, a significant operational challenge lies in ensuring full interoperability between its wide array of American, French, Russian, and Chinese-sourced aircraft. This creates a "force within a force" scenario, where distinct fleets operate with separate command and control systems, potentially limiting combined arms effectiveness.

The EAF possesses a long and varied combat history. It has been involved in major regional conflicts, including the series of Arab-Israeli wars from 1948 to 1973, the North Yemen Civil War, and the Libyan-Egyptian War. The devastating pre-emptive strike by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day War was a pivotal moment, leading to a significant rebuilding and doctrinal reassessment. More recently, the EAF has been actively involved in the Second Libyan Civil War and the intervention in Yemen, in addition to sustained counter-insurgency operations in the Sinai. These engagements have provided the current generation of pilots with valuable combat experience.

To address the challenges of an aging and disparate fleet, the EAF is undergoing a significant and multi-faceted modernization program. This initiative reflects a strategy of diversifying its suppliers to avoid over-reliance on a single nation. Key acquisitions include a substantial number of Dassault Rafale fighters from France, with a recent order set to make Egypt the second-largest operator of the type. The force is also in the process of acquiring F-15 fighter jets from the United States and has integrated Russian MiG-29M/M2 and Su-35 fighters into its inventory. Furthermore, there are plans to modernize the trainer fleet and establish a domestic production line for light combat and trainer aircraft, signaling an ambition for greater self-sufficiency and a larger role as a regional defense partner.