Gambian Air Force

Key facts

Official Name Gambian Air Force
Local Name Military Air Assets
Country๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ฒ Gambia
World rank#159
Active aircraft1 as of 2026
Aircraft on order0

Global Air Force Index

0.6
Global Rank: #159 / 161
The Global Air Force Index measures the Gambian Air Force's overall air power capability on a 0-100 scale, based on fleet composition and combat effectiveness.
๐Ÿ’ฅ Strategic Bombers 0 Nuclear-capable strike aircraft (highest weight)
โœˆ๏ธ Combat Aircraft 1 Fighters, multirole & attack aircraft
๐Ÿš Helicopters 0 Attack, transport & utility rotorcraft
๐Ÿ›ซ Transport 0 Strategic & tactical airlift
๐Ÿ“Š Total Active 1 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
Combat Combat 1

Origin countries of aircraft

Country Active Aircraft
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ Ex-USSR 1

Evolution of Gambian Air Force fleet

Overview

The Gambia Air Force (GAF) is the aerial warfare branch of the military of The Gambia. It was established in 1984 and is responsible for maintaining the sovereignty of The Gambia's airspace, conducting air operations, and providing aerial support for ground forces. The GAF operates a limited number of aircraft, including fixed-wing planes and helicopters. Its fleet consists of aircraft such as the Aermacchi MB-326, which is used for ground attack and close air support, and the Bell 412, which serves multiple roles including troop transport and medical evacuation. The GAF has a small number of trained pilots and personnel who undergo regular training to maintain their operational readiness. The primary focus of the GAF is on defense, border surveillance, and support for domestic security operations.

Full inventory in 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How many aircraft does Gambia have?
Gambia Air Force operates 1 active military aircraft as of the current year. Additionally, 0 aircraft are currently on order.
How does Gambia's air force rank globally?
Gambia Air Force ranks #159 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 combat aircraft does Gambia operate?
Gambia operates 1 combat aircraft, including fighters, multirole jets, and attack aircraft. These form the core of its offensive and defensive air capabilities.
What is the Air Force Index of Gambia?
Gambia has an Air Force Index score of 0.6 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 Gambia get its military aircraft from?
Gambia sources its military aircraft primarily from Ex-USSR. 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 2023. Suggest a change