Hungarian Air Force

The Hungary Air Force, officially known as the Hungarian Army Air Force, is the aerial warfare branch of the Hungarian Defence Forces. Established on November 29, 1944, during World War II, the air force derived from the Hungarian Royal Air Force. For a brief period following the war, Hungary was occupied by the Soviet Union, leading to the reorganization of its military forces, including the air force, under Soviet influence. Over the years, the Hungary Air Force underwent numerous changes and improvements, both in terms of equipment and organization. It relies primarily on Soviet/Russian aircraft designs, such as MiG-29 fighter jets and helicopters like the Mi-24, contributing to its air defense capabilities. In addition to its combat aircraft, the air force also operates various transport aircraft and helicopters. It actively participates in NATO exercises and deployments, and has been involved in international peacekeeping missions. The Hungary Air Force plays a crucial role in guarding Hungary's airspace and supporting the national security interests of the country.

Key facts

Official Name	Hungarian Air Force
Local Name	Magyar Légierő
Country	🇭🇺 Hungary
World rank	#89
Active aircrafts	57 (as of 2024)
Aircrafts on order	30
Roundel

Number of active aircrafts by type

Aircraft type	Active
Helicopters	35
Combat aircrafts	12
Training	8
Transport	2

Aircrafts most used by Hungarian air forces

Aircraft	Active	Type
H145M / EC645	20	German utility helicopter, recognized for military application and primarily used for search and rescue, medical evacuation, and troop transportation.
JAS 39 Gripen	14	Swedish multirole fighter, developed during the Cold War, widely deployed in NATO operations and diverse global air forces.
Mi-24 Hind	8	Soviet attack helicopter, renowned for Cold War use, predominantly deployed for airborne assault, close combat, and anti-armour roles.
Mi-8 Hip	7	Soviet multipurpose helicopter, prevalent during the Cold War, extensively utilized for transport, combat and humanitarian operations globally.
A319 CJ	2	European corporate jet, globally utilized since the late 1990s, renowned for its passenger comfort and operational versatility.
H125M / AS550 Fennec	2	French military variant helicopter, notable for service in Desert Storm and Afghanistan, widely employed for scouting and light attack roles.
Z 42	2	Czech training aircraft, introduced in the late 20th century, extensively utilized for flight instruction and aerobatics worldwide.
Z 43	2	Czech training aircraft, primarily used for general aviation and flight training since the late 20th century.
H225M / EC725 Caracal	0	European long-range tactical transport military helicopter, featuring advanced avionics and systems, used for roles including troop transport and special operations.
KC-390	0	Brazilian tactical transport aircraft known for its operational efficacy in search and rescue, cargo transportation, and aerial refueling missions.

Full inventory in 2024