Lesotho Defence Force – Air Squadron
Key facts
Official Name | Lesotho Defence Force – Air Squadron |
Local Name | Lesotho Defence Force Air Wing |
Country | 🇱🇸 Lesotho |
World rank | #137 |
Active aircrafts | 9 as of 2025 |
Aircrafts on order | 0 |
Roundel |
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Overview
The Lesotho Air Force (LAF) is the aerial warfare branch of the Lesotho Defense Force (LDF) and was established in 1982. As a relatively small force, the LAF's main objective is to provide national defense and support to ground forces. The Air Force operates a limited number of aircraft, including fixed-wing and rotary-wing platforms, primarily for reconnaissance and transport missions. Its fleet consists of a few types of aircraft, such as the Pilatus PC-7 and the Cessna 182, which are used for training and light transport purposes. The LAF has a small number of helicopters, such as the Alouette III, used for troop transport and search and rescue operations. Throughout its history, the Lesotho Air Force has faced challenges related to limited resources and technological advancements when compared to other regional forces. Despite these limitations, the LAF remains committed to maintaining its operational capabilities and contributing to the overall defense of Lesotho.
Origin countries of aircrafts
Country | Active Aircraft | |
---|---|---|
🇫🇷 France | 3 | |
🇺🇸 United States | 3 | |
🇪🇸 Spain | 2 | |
🇦🇺 Australia | 1 |
Evolution of Lesotho Air Force fleet
Aircrafts by type in 2025
Aircraft type | Active | |
---|---|---|
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6 | |
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3 |
Full inventory in 2025
Lesotho Defence Force
Aircraft Type | Model | Origin Country | Model Year | Active | 𝚫 YoY | Ordered | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Bell 412 | 🇺🇸 | 1959 | 3 | 0 |
0 |
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H125M/AS350 | 🇫🇷 | 1990 | 3 | 0 |
0 |
|
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C212 | 🇪🇸 | 1974 | 2 | 0 |
0 |
|
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GA8 | 🇦🇺 | 2000 | 1 | 0 |
0 |