Guatemalan Air Force

The Fuerza Aérea Guatemalteca (FAG) is a subordinate branch of the Guatemalan Armed Forces, structured to perform missions focused on air space sovereignty, support to ground forces, and assistance to other state institutions. Its doctrine emphasizes countering internal and transnational threats, particularly narcotics trafficking, and providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

Following a 2003 restructuring, the FAG is organized into three primary operational commands. These are complemented by a headquarters command, a presidential transport squadron, a hospital, and two schools. While most aircraft are based at La Aurora, units are detached to other bases as required by operations. This structure is designed for a centralized command with decentralized execution, aiming to maximize operational capacity and coordination among its units.

The FAG's operational capabilities are primarily centered on air mobility, reconnaissance, and light attack. Core missions include border patrols, counter-narcotics operations, search and rescue, and disaster relief. The rotary-wing fleet is central to these tasks. The recent acquisition of a Bell 429 helicopter in December 2023, facilitated through a U.S. Foreign Military Sale, directly supports humanitarian assistance, search and rescue, reconnaissance, and disaster response.

Modernization focuses on updating the helicopter fleet to enhance mission effectiveness. The FAG has begun upgrading its Bell 212 helicopters with the Astronautics Badger Pro+ integrated flight display system, converting the legacy analog cockpits to full-glass digital interfaces. This modernization replaces primary flight and engine instruments with four high-resolution displays, improving pilot interface and allowing for the integration of safety features like terrain awareness systems. In addition to the Bell 212 upgrades, the air force has also taken delivery of two Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopters. The FAG is also developing cases for the future acquisition of two Bell 407 helicopters. The Cessna A-37 Dragonfly remains its primary combat jet aircraft.