Namibian Air Force

The Namibian Air Force operates as a subordinate branch of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), with its primary mission being the support of army and navy operations. Its headquarters is at Karibib Air Force Base, with other key facilities at Grootfontein. The force structure consists of distinct wings for fighter, helicopter, and transport aviation. The 23rd Squadron operates the air-to-air combat element, the 151st Squadron manages rotary-wing assets, and the 13th Wing controls fixed-wing transport aircraft.

Strategic doctrine tasks the air force with five core roles: surveillance, transport of personnel and equipment, support to civil authorities, and training. Doctrinal development has been formalized through workshops covering airborne functions such as helicopter, pathfinder, and tactical assault landed operations, conducted with external assistance. The NDF's guiding vision is to maintain a compact, professional, and well-equipped military. In practice, operational tasking focuses heavily on non-combat support, including transporting election materials and providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

Current efforts are centered on updating a small and aging fleet, with China serving as a primary supplier. In late 2023, the air force acquired two Shaanxi Y-9E medium transport aircraft, becoming the type's first export operator. These platforms provide an improved airlift capability for military and civil support missions. The fighter component consists of Chengdu F-7NM and FT-7NM trainers acquired in 2005-2006. In June 2025, the air force commander held discussions with the Indian Air Force to explore further cooperation and potential acquisition of "Make in India" weapon systems.