Rwandan Air Force

Key facts

Official Name	Rwandan Air Force
Local Name	Rwanda Defence Force Air Force
Country	🇷🇼 Rwanda
World rank	#123
Active aircraft	21 as of 2026
Aircraft on order	0
Roundel

Compare this Air Force

🇷🇼 Rwanda vs

Global Air Force Index

3.1

Global Rank: #123 / 161

The Global Air Force Index measures the Rwandan Air Force's overall air power capability on a 0-100 scale, based on fleet composition and combat effectiveness.

💥 Strategic Bombers	0	Nuclear-capable strike aircraft (highest weight)
✈️ Combat Aircraft	0	Fighters, multirole & attack aircraft
🚁 Helicopters	17	Attack, transport & utility rotorcraft
🛫 Transport	2	Strategic & tactical airlift
📊 Total Active	21	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	17
Training	2
Transport	2

Origin countries of aircraft

Country	Active Aircraft
🇨🇳 Ex-USSR	17
🇦🇹 Austria	2
🇺🇸 United States	2

Evolution of Rwandan Air Force fleet

Overview

The Rwanda Air Force, officially known as the Rwanda Defence Force Air Wing, is the aerial warfare branch of the Rwanda Defence Force. Established on 3 July 1994, in the aftermath of the Rwandan Genocide, the air force serves to safeguard Rwandan airspace and support ground forces during military operations. It operates under the Ministry of Defence, ensuring national security and contributing to regional stability. The air force initially operated with just a few aircraft, but it has steadily expanded its fleet over the years. As of 2021, the Rwandan Air Force possesses a diverse range of aircraft, including transport planes, helicopters, and trainer aircraft. Additionally, it has a dedicated air defense system to protect the country against potential threats. The air force regularly participates in regional and international military exercises, promoting cooperation and enhancing its operational capabilities.

Full inventory in 2026

Rwandan Air Force

Aircraft Type	Model	Origin Country	Model Year	Active	𝚫 YoY
Helicopter	Mi-17	🇨🇳	1977	12	+1
Helicopter	Mi-24	🇨🇳	1972	5	0
Transport	Cessna 208	🇺🇸	1984	2	0
Training	DA42	🇦🇹	2004	2	0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many aircraft does Rwanda have?

Rwanda Air Force operates 21 active military aircraft as of the current year. Additionally, 0 aircraft are currently on order.

How does Rwanda's air force rank globally?

Rwanda Air Force ranks #123 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 Rwanda have?

Rwanda Air Force operates 17 military helicopters, including attack, transport, and utility rotorcraft used for various combat and support missions.

What is the Air Force Index of Rwanda?

Rwanda has an Air Force Index score of 3.1 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 Rwanda get its military aircraft from?

Rwanda sources its military aircraft primarily from Ex-USSR, Austria, and United States. 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