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 aircrafts9 as of 2025
Aircrafts on order0
Roundel

Roundel of Lesotho air force

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
Helicopter Helicopter 6
Transport Transport 3

Full inventory in 2025

Lesotho Defence Force

Aircraft Type Model Origin Country Model Year Active 𝚫 YoY Ordered
HelicopterHelicopter Bell 412 🇺🇸 1959 3
0
0
HelicopterHelicopter H125M/AS350 🇫🇷 1990 3
0
0
TransportTransport C212 🇪🇸 1974 2
0
0
TransportTransport GA8 🇦🇺 2000 1
0
0
Various public data, including Wikipedia, Flightglobal.com, SIPRI Arms Transfer and official government websites.