Air Forces comparison: 
United Kingdom vs 
Ireland
Force Profile
| United Kingdom | Ireland | |
|---|---|---|
| Official name | Royal Air Force | Irish Air Corps |
| Local name | — | Óglaigh na hÉireann Aerchór |
| Active aircraft | 654 (2026) | 27 (2026) |
| Aircraft on order | +41 | — |
| Roundel |  |
 |
Aircraft Types Radar Comparison
Aircraft by Type
🇬🇧 United Kingdomas of 2026
🇮🇪 Irelandas of 2026
Fleet Evolution
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
🇮🇪 Ireland
Overview
United Kingdom's air force fields 654 active aircraft — 24:1 Ireland's 27.
The breakdown includes 151 vs 0 combat aircraft, 259 vs 10 helicopters, 58 vs 9 transport aircraft, 170 vs 8 trainers (United Kingdom vs Ireland). United Kingdom has 41 aircraft on order vs 0 for Ireland.
The United Kingdom air force is officially the Royal Air Force, while Ireland's is the Irish Air Corps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has more military aircraft, United Kingdom or Ireland?
United Kingdom has more military aircraft with 654 active aircraft compared to Ireland's 27, a difference of 627 aircraft.
Which air force has more combat aircraft, United Kingdom or Ireland?
United Kingdom has more combat aircraft with 151 fighters and attack aircraft compared to Ireland's 0.
Which country has more military helicopters, United Kingdom or Ireland?
United Kingdom operates more military helicopters with 259 compared to Ireland's 10.
Which air force has more transport aircraft, United Kingdom or Ireland?
United Kingdom has more transport aircraft with 58 compared to Ireland's 9.
How do the United Kingdom and Ireland air forces compare in size?
United Kingdom's air force is 6.4 times larger than Ireland's in terms of total active aircraft (58 vs 9).
Which country has more aircraft on order, United Kingdom or Ireland?
United Kingdom has 41 aircraft on order compared to Ireland's 0.