Military of Eswatini Air Wing

The Eswatini Air Force is the aerial warfare branch of the Eswatini Defense Force. It was established in 1976, shortly after Eswatini gained independence from British colonial rule. The primary role of the Eswatini Air Force is to provide support to ground forces, safeguard the country's airspace, and conduct limited border patrols. The air force is relatively small, consisting of a modest fleet of aircraft, including helicopters and transport planes. It has focused on maintaining a credible and competent force capable of fulfilling its assigned duties. However, it does not possess any fighter jets or advanced combat capabilities. The Eswatini Air Force has participated in various regional and international exercises, aiming to enhance inter-operability with neighboring countries and build technical expertise. Above all, its main objective is to ensure the defense and security of Eswatini's airspace and contribute to national security.

Key facts

Official Name Military of Eswatini Air Wing
Local Name Umbutfo Eswatini Air Wing
CountryπŸ‡ΈπŸ‡Ώ Eswatini
World rank#144
Active aircrafts5 (as of 2024)
Aircrafts on order0

Number of active aircrafts by type

Aircraft type Active
Helicopters 5

Aircrafts most used by Swazi air forces

Aircraft Active Type
SA316 Alouette III 3
French utility helicopter, popular in the Cold War-era, extensively utilized for search and rescue, and light transport roles.
UH-1 Iroquois "Huey" 2
American utility helicopter, essential in the Vietnam War, extensively employed for medevac, transport, and combat operations.

Full inventory in 2024

Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force

Aircraft Type Model Active Ordered
Helicopters SA316
UH-1H