South African Air Force

The South Africa Air Force (SAAF) is the aerial warfare branch of the South African National Defence Force. It was established on 1 February 1920, making it the second-oldest air force worldwide. Initially focused on safeguarding South Africa's borders, the SAAF played a crucial role during World War II, undertaking combat operations in East and North Africa, as well as Italy and the Balkans. After the war, the SAAF participated in various peacekeeping missions in Africa. Notably, during apartheid, the SAAF's effectiveness was hindered by sanctions and limited international cooperation. Nonetheless, it actively patrolled South African airspace. Following South Africa's democratization in 1994, the SAAF expanded its role, providing airlift support, reconnaissance, and counterinsurgency capabilities. It has also engaged in international cooperation, participating in United Nations and African Union missions. The SAAF operates a variety of aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles. It regularly conducts joint exercises and training programs to enhance operational readiness and ensure the defense of South Africa's airspace.

Key facts

Official Name	South African Air Force
Local Name	South African Air Force
Country	🇿🇦 South Africa
World rank	#44
Active aircrafts	226 (as of 2024)
Aircrafts on order	0
Roundel

Number of active aircrafts by type

Aircraft type	Active
Helicopters	91
Training	88
Transport	23
Combat aircrafts	17
Special missions	7

Aircrafts most used by South African air forces

Aircraft	Active	Type
PC-7 Turbo Trainer	56	Swiss-made turbo trainer, distinguished by service in over 30 air forces, dating back to the late 1970s.
H215M / AS532 Cougar	44	French utility helicopter, notable for search and rescue missions, extensively utilized in military and civilian sectors since the 1970s.
JAS 39 Gripen	26	Swedish multirole fighter, developed during the Cold War, widely deployed in NATO operations and diverse global air forces.
AW109	25	Italian multipurpose helicopter, notable for its use in law enforcement, air ambulance and military roles since the late 1970s.
Hawk	23	British trainer jet, distinguished in Red Arrows aerobatic team, extensively operational since the 1970s worldwide.
AH-2 Rooivalk	12	South African attack helicopter, designed during the late 20th century, extensively deployed for peacekeeping missions in Africa.
DC-3	9	American commercial airliner, renowned for significant contributions to World War II airlift operations, frequently used for cargo and passenger transport.
208 Caravan	8	American utility aircraft, primarily deployed for passenger and cargo transportation, known for its operational history since the 1980s.
H145M / EC645	6	German utility helicopter, recognized for military application and primarily used for search and rescue, medical evacuation, and troop transportation.
C-130 Hercules	5	American military transport aircraft, known for significant roles in Vietnam War and Desert Storm, extensively used for various cargo missions.

Full inventory in 2024