The Estonian Air Force is the aerial warfare branch of the Estonian Defence Forces. Established on April 12, 1994, it succeeded the Soviet-era LenVO Estonian Military District (1940–1992). The air force is headquartered in Ämari Air Base, in the city of Ämari. It currently operates a mix of fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. The primary fighter aircraft is the F-16 Fighting Falcon, acquired from the United States. Additionally, the air force operates a fleet of L-39 Albatros advanced training and light attack aircraft. It also maintains an inventory of utility and transport helicopters, including the UH-60 Black Hawk and the AS332 Super Puma. The primary air patrol tasks of the Estonian Air Force are airspace monitoring, air policing, and search and rescue missions. The air force regularly participates in NATO and international exercises to enhance its operational capabilities and interoperability with allied forces.
