Royal Norwegian Air Force

The Royal Norwegian Air Force (RNoAF) is the air component of the Norwegian Armed Forces. It was established on November 10, 1944, during World War II. The RNoAF operates under the command of the Chief of Defence, and its primary responsibilities include securing Norway's territorial integrity, conducting air operations, and supporting the Norwegian Army and Navy. The RNoAF is equipped with a variety of aircraft, including F-35A Lightning II fighter jets, F-16 Fighting Falcon multirole fighters, P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft, and NH90 helicopters. The force also operates various advanced weapon systems, such as surface-to-air missile systems and air defense artillery. In addition to its defense duties, the RNoAF contributes to international operations, including NATO missions and UN peacekeeping initiatives. The RNoAF has a strong focus on training, ensuring its personnel are well-prepared for both national and international missions. Overall, the RNoAF plays a crucial role in safeguarding Norway's airspace and maintaining security within the country and beyond its borders.

Key facts

Official Name	Royal Norwegian Air Force
Local Name	Luftforsvaret
Country	🇳🇴 Norway
World rank	#73
Active aircrafts	100 (as of 2024)
Aircrafts on order	27
Roundel

Number of active aircrafts by type

Aircraft type	Active
Helicopters	38
Training	26
Combat aircrafts	24
Special missions	8
Transport	4

Aircrafts most used by Norwegian air forces

Aircraft	Active	Type
F-35 Lightning II	34	American multirole stealth fighter, developed in the early 21st century, extensively deployed in global military operations.
UH-1 Iroquois "Huey"	18	American utility helicopter, essential in the Vietnam War, extensively employed for medevac, transport, and combat operations.
MFI-15 Safari	16	Swedish utility aircraft, operational since the 1960s, frequently deployed for training and light transport roles worldwide.
AW101	13	British-Italian medium-lift helicopter, notable for search and rescue, anti-submarine warfare, and troop transport operations globally since the early 2000s.
SH-3 Sea King	7	American amphibious helicopter, enlisted for anti-submarine warfare during the Cold War, renowned for Apollo space missions recovery.
737	5	American twin-engine narrow-body jet airliner, popularly deployed for commercial aviation since the late 1960s.
C-130 Hercules	4	American military transport aircraft, known for significant roles in Vietnam War and Desert Storm, extensively used for various cargo missions.
P-3 Orion	3	American maritime patrol aircraft, actively used in the Cold War, notable for anti-submarine warfare and surveillance operations.

Full inventory in 2024