Jamaica Defence Force

Key facts

Official Name Jamaica Defence Force
Local Name Jamaica Defence Force Air Wing
Country๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ฒ Jamaica
World rank#95
Active aircraft18 as of 2026
Aircraft on order1
Roundel

Roundel of Jamaica air force

Global Air Force Index

3.5
Global Rank: #95 / 161
The Global Air Force Index measures Jamaica Defence Force'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 0 Fighters, multirole & attack aircraft
๐Ÿš Helicopters 15 Attack, transport & utility rotorcraft
๐Ÿ›ซ Transport 0 Strategic & tactical airlift
๐Ÿ“Š Total Active 18 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 15
Training Training 2
Other Special 1

Origin countries of aircraft

Country Active Aircraft
๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ United States 16
๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡น Austria 2

Evolution of Jamaican Air Force fleet

Overview

The Jamaica Air Force, officially known as the Jamaica Defence Force Air Wing, is the air arm of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). Established on March 24, 1963, it operates as a subsidiary of the JDF and is headquartered at Up Park Camp in Kingston, Jamaica. The primary role of the Air Wing is to provide support to ground and maritime forces, contributing to national security and internal defense operations. The Air Wing operates a small fleet of aircraft, which includes fixed-wing planes and helicopters. These aircraft are used for various tasks such as transport, reconnaissance, maritime patrol, and search and rescue missions. In addition to its operational role, the Air Wing also assists in disaster relief operations, both domestically and regionally. The Jamaica Air Force maintains close partnerships with international counterparts and participates in joint exercises and training programs. The force remains committed to fulfilling its mission of defending Jamaica's territorial integrity and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.

Full inventory in 2026

Jamaica Defence Force

Frequently Asked Questions

How many aircraft does Jamaica have?
Jamaica Defence Force operates 18 active military aircraft as of the current year. Additionally, 1 aircraft are currently on order.
How does Jamaica's air force rank globally?
Jamaica Defence Force ranks #95 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 military helicopters does Jamaica have?
Jamaica Defence Force operates 15 military helicopters, including attack, transport, and utility rotorcraft used for various combat and support missions.
What is the Air Force Index of Jamaica?
Jamaica has an Air Force Index score of 3.5 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 Jamaica get its military aircraft from?
Jamaica sources its military aircraft primarily from United States and Austria. 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