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When military strength is discussed, attention often focuses on ground forces such as soldiers, tanks, and artillery. Air power, however, is a critical part of modern defence.
Military aircraft like Fighter jets, helicopters, and transport planes provide rapid response, surveillance, air support for ground troops, and strategic reach that ground forces alone cannot achieve.
By the end of 2025, these African countries had built the biggest and most capable aircraft fleets on the continent.
1. Egypt
Egypt is ranked sixth out of 145 nations in terms of air power, placing it first in Africa and among the top military nations in the world, ranking 8th on the list. The nation had the largest fleet on the continent by the end of 2025, with 1,093 military aircraft.
2. Algeria
Algeria, which has one of the most advanced air forces in Africa, comes in second. By the end of 2025, it was ranked 17th out of 145 nations in the world and operated roughly 608 military aircraft.
3. Angola
One of the biggest fleets of military aircraft in sub-Saharan Africa is found in Angola. The nation had a major regional presence by the end of 2025, operating roughly 298 military aircraft. Out of 145 nations, Angola came in at number 34.
4. Morocco
Morocco has built a solid and reliable air force over the years. By the end of 2025, it operated about 260 military aircraft, making it one of the strongest air powers in North Africa. Morocco ranked 37th out of 145 countries worldwide.
5. South Africa
South Africa has one of the most advanced air forces in Africa, even though its fleet is smaller than some others on the list. By the end of 2025, the country operated about 182 military aircraft. South Africa was ranked 50th out of 145 countries worldwide.
6. Sudan
Despite years of conflict and political instability, Sudan still maintains a sizeable air force. By the end of 2025, it operated about 165 military aircraft and ranked 52nd out of 145 countries worldwide.
7. Nigeria
Nigeria has one of the smallest air force fleets in Africa, despite being referred to as the African giant. The nation operated roughly 163 military aircraft by the end of 2025. Nigeria was placed 54th out of 145 nations in the world.
8. Kenya
Kenya followed closely with about 153 aircraft, ranking 55th worldwide, with air assets supporting border security and regional operations.
9. Tunisia
Tunisia operated around 154 military aircraft and ranked 57th globally, maintaining a smaller but reliable air force.
10. Libya
Libya completes the top ten with about 143 military aircraft and a global ranking of 59th, though years of conflict have limited the effectiveness of much of its fleet.
