CAMBODIA
ROYAL CAMBODIAN AIR FORCE
IAI of Israel has upgraded at least six of Cambodia's MiG-21s; however, while two aircraft were delivered in 1997, work on the other four was suspended waiting for Cambodia to pay IAI. The MiG-21-2000 upgrade includes a service life extension, a HUD, an improved weapons system and new cockpit, GPS-based navigation and Western communications equipment; the upgrade is understood also to include the Python 3 AAM and the Griffin LGB. It is thought the contract may cover conversion of nine single- seat and one twin-stick MiG-21. IAI also procured and modified six L-39 Albatros trainers for Cambodia; one was lost soon after delivery. Cambodia's difficulty in meeting the financial terms of its contract make it unlikely that the remaining MiG-21s, which are thought to be unserviceable, will be upgraded.
Cambodia's other training type, the P92 Echo, is an Italian-built, high-wing trainer certificated to very light aircraft rules. Although peace and stability returned to the country in the early 1990s, a coup and subsequent civil war in 1997 returned the South-East Asian nation to its previous perilous state.
Type No Role
MiG-21bis/UM Fishbed 15/4 int/FGA/trng
L-39 Albatros 5 trng
Harbin Y-12 2 utility
BN-2 Islander 3 utility
Super King Air 1 trans
F28-1000 1 trans
Falcon 20E 1 VIP/comms
An-24RV Coke 2 trans
Mi-24 Hind 3 attack
Mi-8/17 Hip 6/7 trans
Mi-26 Halo 2 trans
AS365 Dauphin 2 1 trans
AS350B Ecureuil 1 trans
Tecnam P92 Echo 6 trng
CAMEROON
L'ARMEE DE L'AIR DU CAMEROUN (AIR FORCE)
Cameroon's air force has a small attack force equipped with armed trainers including Alpha Jets, Magisters and, since 1997, Atlas Impalas. Four Gazelles can also be armed. Coastal patrol is handled by Dornier Skyservants; the country has disputed coastal borders with a number of its neighbours. Such disagreements with Nigeria over the Bakassi Peninsula led to border skirmishes in September 1996. The air force's main bases are at Douala, on the coast, the nation's capital Yaounde, Batroui near the eastern border and Garoua in the north. Many of the transport aircraft fly with civil registrations.
Type No Role
Alpha Jet 5 attack/COIN
CM170 Magister 6 COIN/trng
C-130H/H-30 Hercules 1/1 trans
DHC-5D Buffalo 4 trans
IAI-201 Arava 1 trans
Atlas Impala I/II 2/4 trng
Dornier 128D-6 Skyservant 2/1 surv/trans
PA-23 Aztec 2 comms
Boeing 727-200 1 VIP
Gulfstream III 1 VIP
AS332L Super Puma 1 VIP
SA330C 2 comms
SA365N Dauphin 1 VIP
SA319B Alouette III 2 comms/VIP
SA318C Alouette II 1 liaison
B206L-3 LongRanger 3 liaison
SA342L Gazelle 4 COIN
CANADA
CANADIAN FORCES - AIR COMMAND (AIRCOM)
Canada's long-running competition to select a SAR helicopter to replace elderly and increasingly weary CH-113s came to an end in January 1998 when the Cormorant version of the Anglo-Italian EH101 was ordered. Deliveries will run between 2000 and 2003 and the tri-service CF now needs to replace its Sea King ASW helicopters which deploy aboard the Navy Command's ships. They are managed by the Shearwater, Nova Scotia-based 12 Wing. Contenders include the EH101 with a Boeing mission system and the S-92 with a Lockheed Martin mission suite.
Other priorities for the next five years include avionics upgrades to the CF-18 and CP-140s. The CF-18 update is multi-phased and will give the machine new mission computers, secure radios, the APG-73 radar, improved IFF, Link 16 datalink, EW improvements and a helmet-mounted sight. Around 100 of the 122 aircraft will be upgraded and receive structural life extensions.
Avionics update programmes are under way on the Hercules transports and tankers. The first was redelivered to the CF in July 1998 from Spar Aviation Services which fitted the aircraft with digital automatic flight control systems, improved cockpit instruments, including EFIS and new navigation equipment. Importantly, it also standardised four different CF Hercules cockpit configurations.
CF-18s are assigned to 4 Wing at Cold Lake, Alberta which has three squadrons and 3 Wing with two squadrons at Bagotville, Quebec. Each wing also has a unit equipped with the T-33, albeit in the electronic warfare training variant. CC-130s, CC-150s and CH-113s are concentrated at Trenton, Ontario within 8 Wing. Tactical helicopters, the CH-146s, are operated in six squadrons based around the country but are managed by 1 Wing based at Kingston, Ontario. The four CP-140 squadrons are administered by two wings, 14 Wing at Greenwood, Nova Scotia and 19 Wing at Comox, British Columbia. CP-140As are based on the P-3 Orion airframe but do not have any of the CP-140's ASW equipment. They are used for crew training, as well as Arctic, environmental and fishery patrol where sophisticated, expensive systems are not required. SAR assets include fixed wing as well as rotary wing types because CF operations take it to the far north of the country where the speed of a fixed-wing type can be essential. Training has been contracted to Bombardier at Portage la Prairie, where T-67s, King Air C90s and JetRangers are used for primary multi-engine and rotary wing training. While all CF air assets returned home from NATO commitments in Germany in 1993, it is contributing to alliance operations over Iraq and in the Persian Gulf as well as in and around the former Yugoslavia. CF's Goose Bay base continues to be used as a centre for low level flying training by a number of European NATO air forces.
NATO FLYING TRAINING IN CANADA
In April 1997, the Canadian Government approved the NATO Flying Training in Canada (NFTC) programme which will be owned and operated by Bombardier as a means for NATO, and other air forces, to pool training and make up for an expected shortfall in the next decade. It is based on a four-phase system. The first phase is a national responsibility for selection and screening. Phase II basic training will take part in Canada at Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, using T-6 Harvard IIs, followed by Phase III advanced training at the same base using BAe Hawks. Phase IV tactical training will also be on the Hawk, but based at Cold Lake for tactical flying and weapons training. Instructors are supplied by CF and participating air forces. Aircraft have been bought by Bombardier and commercially insured but are registered and certificated through the Department of National Defence. As well as the CF, the Danish, Italian, and Netherlands air forces and the UK will send pilots to NFTC, which is due to run its first course in 2000. Bombardier can offer overseas air forces screening on the T67 Fireflys it operates for CF as well as basic rotary-wing and multiple engine training using the privately run King Airs and JetRangers.
Type No Role
CF-18A/B Hornet 84/38 int/AD/strike
CH-124A/B Sea King 24/6 ASW/SAR
AW520 Cormorant 15* SAR
CP-140 Aurora/CP-140A Arcturus 18/3 MR/fishery-coastal patrol
CC-144/CE-144 Challenger 6 trans/VIP
CC-130E/H/H-30/
KCC-130H Hercules 19/6/2/5 trans/tank-trans/SAR
CC-150 Polaris (A310) 5 trans
CC-138 Twin Otter 4 trans/SAR
CC-115 Buffalo 6 trans/SAR
CH-146 Griffon (Bell 412) 99 trans/SAR
CH-113/A Labrador 12 SAR
CT-133 Silver Star (T-33) 27 EW train
CT-114 Tutor 88 trng
Hawk 115‡ 26 trng
T-6 Harvard II (T-6 Texan II) ‡ 24 trng
CT-145 Super King Air 2 trng
Slingsby T-67M Firefly† 12 trng
Beech King Air C90† 8 trng
CC-142/CT-142 Dash 8 2/4 trans/trng
CH-139 JetRanger+ 13 trng
† contract flying services
‡ NFTC, 20 Hawks on firm order
+ joint service
CAPE VERDE
FORCA AEREA CABOVERDAINE AND GUARDA COSTEIRA DE CABO VERDE (AIR FORCE AND COAST GUARD)
The small coast guard concentrates on patrolling the North Atlantic waters which surround Cape Verde using a Dornier 228-201. The air force operates three An-26 Curl transports.
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC
ESCADRILLE CENTRALFRICAINE (CENTRAL AFRICAN FLIGHT)
This former French colony suffers from severe financial difficulties. In 1996 the Central African Republic was rocked by three mutinies by elements of the armed forces who demanded back pay as well as political and military reforms. No final solution has been found and violence continues to unsettle the country. The military air arm operates a single Rallye Guerrier and a single AS350 Ecureuil for communications duties. Air power was provided by the French military presence which included a Foreign Legion battalion, supported by three Transall C160 transports and five Jaguar attack aircraft based at the capital Bangui and at Bouar. Having stepped in to help quell the mutineers, France decided in 1997 to close its Central African Republic bases as part of a three year force reduction in Africa, leaving a token force of 100 personnel to maintain control of Bangui's airport.
CHAD
FORCES AERIENNES TCHADIENNES (CHAD AIR FORCE)
The combat capability of Chad's air force is restricted to two Pilatus PC-7 Turbo-Trainers received via France in 1985 and the remaining two of three SF260Ws captured from Libya during the numerous border disputes between the two countries. All the aircraft are based at the Chief Adji Kosseô airbase at N'Djamena. The government also operates civil registered aircraft not declared by the air force, including a Gulfstream II, a 727-200 and a F27-600. France maintains a military presence in Chad which has included the deployment of combat aircraft when the country has been threatened by Libya.
Type No Role
PC-7 Turbo-Trainer 2 COIN
SF260W Warrior 2 COIN
C-130H/H-30 Hercules 1/1 trans
An-26 Curl 1 trans
Reims-Cessna FTB337 1 comms
SA316 Alouette III 2 comms
PC-6B Turbo-Porter 1 comms
CHILE
FUERZA AEREA DE CHILE (AIR FORCE)
The economic crises in Asia and South America prevented Chile from selecting a winner of its Fighter 2000 competition as it planned in 1998. Instead, a postponement led to an April 1999 re-issuing of requests for information on the F/A-18/C/D, F/A-18E/F, Mirage 2000-5, F-16C/D Block 50 and the Gripen, although the latter case may be harmed because of its British Aerospace link and the UK's detention of former Chilean president Augusto Pinochet. Although the air force has asked for bids based on 24 aircraft, funding may limit the buy to half this number.
Chile also has on-going requirements for tanker aircraft and for a "tactics trainer" to replace its elderly T-37s. Chile has signed a letter of intent for the Raytheon Texan II, which was possible only after the USA's embargo on arms sales to Latin America was lifted. The single IAI Phalcon was delivered in 1995. It has phased array radars on either side of the fuselage and in a bulbous nose fairing.
The Elkan/Mirage 5s replaced upgraded Hawker Hunters and were acquired from Belgium. They received SABCA's MIRSIP upgrade before delivery in 1995/6; four aircraft have a reconnaissance capability. These aircraft operate simultaneously with the broadly similar Enaer Panteras, which are locally upgraded Mirage 50s. These and its Israeli-modified F-5Es are equipped with IAI's Python 3 and Python 4 air-to-air missile. The upgrade was in conjunction with Chile's Enaer and included multi-mode radar, head-up and head-down displays, navigation systems and electronic warfare equipment. Just under half the A-36s had upgraded cockpits fitted in 1997. The reconnaissance Canberras are the survivors of three delivered from RAF stocks in 1982. A single S-70 Black Hawk delivered in July 1998 is intended to be the beginning of replacement of the UH-1Hs, five of which are on a two-year lease to the UN and based in Baghdad, where they will be abandoned when the contract is finished. Operationally the air force is formed of five brigades which split the country into geographical regions, and three supporting commands.
Type No Role
Pantera (Mirage 50) 8/6/1 int/recce
Elkan (Mirage 5) 20/5† FGA
F-5E/F Tiger II 13/3 int/FGA/trng
Phalcon 1 AEW
Canberra PR9 2 recce
A-36 Halcon (C-101CC) 21 COIN/trng
T-36 Halcon (C-101BB) 17 trng
A-37B Dragonfly 24 COIN/trng
T-37B/C 20 trng
Beech 99A 7 MR/trans/ELINT
Boeing 707-300 4 tank-trans/trans
C-130B/H Hercules 4/2 trans
Y-7H-500 (An-24) 2 trans
Gulfstream C-20B (GIII) 1 trans
737-200 1 trans/VIP
Super King Air/King Air 1/1 comms
PA-28-236 Dakota 14 comms
C212 Aviocar 4 trans
DHC-6 Twin Otter 14 Antarctic sup/trans
BK117B 1 comms
S-70A Black Hawk 1 trans
BO105CB-4/CBS 6 SAR/Antarctic sup
SA315B Lama 5 SAR/trans
Extra 300 6 aerobatic team
Learjet 35A 2 survey
T-35A/B Pillan 20 trng
O-1 Bird Dog 3 glider towing
Bell 206 3 training
† plus five aircraft for spares.
COMANDANCIA DE AVIACION NAVAL DE LA ARMADA DE CHILE (NAVY)
Chile's naval air arm is divided into five squadrons, all of which are based at Vina del Mar but deploy to bases at Puerto Williams and Punta Arenas as well as three smaller bases. The Cougars deploy aboard the navy's destroyers and frigates. They are equipped with radar and sonar for ASW and ASuW and carry the AM39 Exocet anti-ship missile. P-3s and radar-equipped Bandeirantes provide fixed-wing maritime reconnaissance coverage and can be supported by the Falcon 20s. Chile has considered upgrades to its P-3 fleet including a new mission suite, sensors, FLIR and ESM/ELINT.
Type No Role
EMB-110CN/EMB-111 3/6 MR/trans
PC-7 Turbo-Trainer 10 trng
Cessna 0-2A (337) 10 trng
C212-100 Aviocar 3 trans
BO105S/LSA/CBS 7 SAR/Antarc sup
Bell 206 JetRanger 6 SAR/Antarctic sup
AS532C Cougar 6 ASuW/ASW
P-3A/UP-3A Orion 4/2 MR/SAR/trng
Falcon 20 2 VIP/MR
COMANDO DE AVIACION DEL EJERCITO DE CHILE (ARMY)
The Chilean army's air command is based at Rancagua near Santiago. It supports ground elements with transport and communications aircraft. Only the five MD530 helicopters are armed. The brigade-sized army aviation is subdivided into five smaller units which deploy with mixed fleets as and when required by the army.
Type No Role
MD530F 5 army sup
SA315B Lama 12 liaison
CN235M 3 trans
C212 Aviocar 6 trans
Cessna 208 8 utility
AS332B Super Puma 3 trans
SA330F/L Puma 11 trans
Bell 206B 2 comms
UH-1H 3 comms/trans
PA-31 Navajo 1 comms
Cessna 337G 3 comms
Enstrom 280FX 15 trng
R172K Hawk XP 16 trng
CHINA
ZHONGKUO SHENMIN TAIFANG TSUNPUTAI (PEOPLE'S LIBERATION ARMY AIR FORCE)
On paper the PLAAF is one of the most powerful air forces, with around 4,000 aircraft in service. In reality it is more a collection of museum pieces and China is continuing to modernise its air force, with Russia and Israel figuring large in its procurement plans. Two batches of Sukhoi Su-27P Flanker As (J-11) have been delivered since April 1991 and the first of 200 licence-built examples to be produced flew from Shenyang in December 1998. China has followed its Su-27 acquisition with an order for 60 Su-30MKKs,broadly similar to the thrust vectoring-equipped, long-range fighters ordered by India. China is keen to licence-produce this potent machine also. With the Flanker as the air force's air superiority aircraft, the F-10 programme is intended to replace its F-7 lightweight fighter. The F-10 draws heavily upon the cancelled Israeli Lavi programme; a prototype flew in March 1998. Also in development is the Super Seven/FC-1, for which again China is receiving technical assistance from Russia. China and Pakistan have formally agreed joint development of the aircraft, but the PLAAF has yet to declare its interest in the machine which will be fitted with Western avionics. The PLAAF is also looking to procure AEW aircraft, with Marconi and Elta addressing this requirement. IAI is to convert one Il-76 with Beriev as part of its bid to win the PLAAF programme, while negotiations have taken place with Marconi for conversion of a second aircraft with the Argus radar.
The air force is organised on former Soviet lines: up to four squadrons, each with about 15 aircraft, make up an air regiment, and three regiments form an air division. There are ten regional headquarters: Beijing, Cheng Tu, Fu-Chow, Junan, Kuangchow, Kunming, Lanchow, Nanking, Shenyang and Wuhan. The newest Chinese-developed fighter to enter service, the Shenyang J-8II Finback, is a development of the J-7 (MiG-21), with two engines, a longer fuselage and a slightly larger delta wing. The J-8II is believed to be in low-rate production and squadron service. Apart from the J-8s, the fighter regiments are equipped with a variety of Chinese-built MiGs. The J-6 (MiG-19) is in widespread use as a day fighter, with some all-weather capability. Reconnaissance versions are also in service. An attack derivative of the J-6 is the Q-5 Fantan, with a new forward fuselage and side intakes. China's "strategic" bomber force was previously based largely on the Harbin H-5 (Ilyushin Il-28), with more than 450 in 12 regiments supported by 100 H-6s (Tupolev Tu-16s) which provide the PLAAF with its nuclear strike capability. Some H-6s have been converted to tankers, as have some Il-76/78s which were seen during 50th anniversary celebrations of the birth of communist China. Many of the H-5s have been retired with the remaining aircraft used only for training. China's jet trainer, the Nanchang K-8, has been developed with Pakistan: China is expected to order 200 and Pakistan 75 K-8s.
Type No Role
Xian H-6 (Tu-16) 120 bomber
Harbin H-5 (Il-28) 250 trng
Shenyang J-8/J-8II Finback 400† int
J-11 (Su-27 Flanker) 50/200† int
Su-30MKK up to 60 int/attack
J-6/6A/B/C (MiG-19) 2,500 int/attack/rec/trng
J-7 I/II/III (MiG-21) 600 int
Nanchang Q-5 Fantan 500 strike/attack
J-5/5A (MiG-17PF) 500 attack
Beriev A50 (Il-76 Candid) 1 AEW testbed
Il-76 Candid 18 trans/tank
Harbin HZ-5/HJ-5 40 recce/trng
Shenyang JZ-6 100 rec
Tu-154M/D 2 ELINT
Y-7 (An-24 Coke) 30 trans
Y-14 (An-26 Curl) 12 trans
An-30 Clank 8 surv
Harbin Y-11/Y-12 15/2 trans/survey
Il-18 Coot 10 trans
Shaanxi Y-8 25 trans
CL601 Challenger 2 VIP
Y-5 (An-2 Colt) 300 trans
Harbin Z-5/Z-6 (Mi-4) 350 trans
K-8 Karakorum 200† trng
Chengdu JJ-5 500 trng
Guizhou JJ-7 50 trng
Nanchang CJ-6 1,500 trng
Shenyang J-4 (MiG-17F) 350 trng
Shenyang JJ-6 150 trng
† requirement
AVIATION OF THE PEOPLE'S NAVY
A land-based service, the APN continues to harbour sea-going ambitions although an attempt in early 1998 to acquire by covert means the aircraft carrier Varyag appears to have failed. A successful purchase was eight more Ka-28 Helix ASW/SAR helicopters from Russia. Present APN equipment includes about 150 H-5s in three anti-ship divisions, with the H-6s in a fourth unit. A coastal defence fighter force operates the J-5, J-6 and Q-5 in six divisions under the control of the PLAAF region in which they are located. A dozen Be-6 flying boats are used for MR and ASW, while some Z-5 helicopters and a mix of transport types are operated in support roles. APN has eight destroyers compatible with the Z-9 while the Super Frelons - some of which were licence built as Changhe Z-8s - deploy at sea aboard a range of larger ships. It also has a helicopter training carrier. A four-turboprop flying-boat, the SH-5, entered limited service in mid-1986. China has also been working on the B-7 strike-aircraft programme, with a handful of prototypes of this supersonic attack aircraft having flown. The aircraft is being evaluated by the PLA navy. A maritime patrol variant of the Y-8 (An-12) transport, under development at Xi'an, is fitted with Racal Skymaster search radar and inertial-navigation system.
Type No Role
Harbin H-5 (Il-28) 150+ torpedo attack
Harbin H-6/H-6 III (Tu-16) 30 torpedo attack
Chengdu/Guizhou J-7 I/II/III 100 int
Shenyang J-6/JJ-6 (MiG-19) 300 int/attack
Shenyang J-5A (MiG-17PF) 100 int/trng
Nanchang Q-5 Fantan 100 attack
Harbin Z-9 (SA365 Dauphin) 25 ASW
Ka-28 Helix 20 ASW/SAR
Z-8/SA321 Super Frelon 20 trans/ASW/SAR
Harbin SH-5 4 MR/ASW/trans
Be-6 Madge 12+ MR/ASW
Y-7 (An-24 Coke) 10 trans
Y-5 (An-2 Colt) 40 trans
Harbin Z-5 (Mi-4) 6+ trans
ARMY AVIATION CORPS
Established in 1988 by the transfer of utility helicopters from the air force, the army aviation corps' role is to support ground troops as a transport force although the Gazelles have a limited combat capability. China's army has an attack helicopter requirement as part of a massive modernisation programme. Many of the S-70C-IIs were grounded due to a US embargo on spares; this has been eased, allowing the delivery of four more helicopters. The Harbin Z-9 is a licence-built AS365 Dauphin, while the Changhe Z-11 a licence-built AS355 Fennec which is being evaluated.
Type No Role
SA342L-1 Gazelle 8 trng
S-70C-II Black Hawk 28 trans
Mi-8/17 Hip 35/20 assault trans
Harbin Z-9 (SA365 Dauphin) 25 trans
AS332 Super Puma 6 VIP
Harbin Z-5 (Mi-4 Hound) 300 trans
Changhe Z-11 (Fennec) 4 utility
COLOMBIA
FUERZA AEREA COLOMBIANA (AIR FORCE)
The Colombian air force's single squadron of Kfirs was delivered as the C2 standard but has since been upgraded by the manufacturer to C7s. IAI has also been assisting local industry to upgrade the Mirage 50s, which are the survivors from 19 delivered in the early 1970s, to a near-Kfir C7 standard. The remainder of the air force's combat aircraft are COIN types: Colombia has two major active guerrilla armies. AT-37 Dragonflies are the most numerous type; the training aircraft from which it was developed, the T-37, is operated in the advanced training role. Other COIN aircraft include a squadron of Broncos and AC-47 gunships which have had the Basler turboprop conversion, as have some of the transport C-47s. Tucano trainers also have a COIN capability. Some of the helicopters in service, such as the Black Hawks, have been provided as US assistance to combat the drug trade. Colombia is seeking a significant increase in S-70 numbers and surplus AH-1 Cobras to provide close support during anti-drug missions. It is also seeking up to eight ex-USN P-3s for maritime surveillance. At least two of the Hercules are in storage. The C-130 is supported by the C212s and Bandeirantes. SATENA, a paramilitary airline, serves remote locations where commercial services are not viable. It operates Dornier 328s, C212s, BAe748s and a range of other regional transports.
Type No Role
Kfir C7/TC-7 12/1 FGA
Mirage 5COA/COR/COD 10/1/2 FGA
A-37B/T-37 Dragonfly 26/12 COIN/trng
AC-47/AC-47T Dakota 4 COIN
OV-10A Bronco 16 COIN
IA58A Pucara 3 COIN
MD500/D/E/M 13 COIN
MD530F Defender 4 COIN
Schweizer SA2-37A 1 recce
C-130B/H-30 Hercules 7/2 trans
C-47 Dakota/C-117D 5/1 trans
IAI-201 Arava 1 trans
707-373C 1 trans
F28-1000 1 trans
EMB-110P Bandeirante 2 trans
DHC-2 Beaver 2 trans
C212-300 Aviocar 2 trans
Bell 205A-1 6 trans
Bell 212/412 15/2 trans
UH-1B/H Iroquois 23 trans/trng
UH-60A/L Black Hawk 26 trans
Bell 206L-3 LongRanger 2 comms
PA-23 Aztec 1 comms
PA-34R Seneca 2 comms
PA-31 Navajo/PA-31T 2/1 comms
Beech Baron 1 comms
Queen Air B80 1 comms
Cessna 206 Stationair 1 comms
Cessna 210 Centurion 1 comms
Cessna 310 2 comms
Cessna 402C/441 1/1 comms
Citation II 1 comms
King Air/SuperKing Air 1/1 comms
Commander 60 0/980/1000 3 comms/survey
T-27/AT-27 Tucano 14 trng/COIN
T-34A/B Mentor 10 trng
T-41D Mescalero 12 trng
Enstrom F28F 12 trng
Gavilian 358 12† trans
CN235M 3 trans
†funding requested
AVIACION NAVAL ARMADA DE COLOMBIA (NAVY AIR ARM)
The Colombian navy air arm has a limited capability with only a handful of helicopters and a few fixed-wing liaison aircraft. All aircraft are based at Cartagena.
Type No Role
PA-31 Navajo 1 comms
King Air 1 comms
Commander 500 3 comms
PA-28 Cherokee 4 comms
BO105CB 4 comms
EJERCITO DE COLOMBIANA (ARMY)
An order for Mi-17s was placed in late 1996. The helicopters, the army's first since the creation of its in 1991, allow it to support troops in the field rather than rely on the air force for support. The army originally selected the Sikorsky Black Hawk, which is in service with the air force and police, but a request for 12 was rejected by the US Congress because of alleged human rights issues. It also has a requirement for armed helicopters and is looking at the Bell MH-1W multi-role development of the AH-1W. Many fixed-wing types were acquired after confiscation in drugs-related operations.
Type No Role
Mi-17 Hip 10 trans
Convair 580 1 trans
Commander 500/1000 1/2 comms
Super King Air/King Air C90 1/1 comms
PA-31 Navajo 2 comms
PA-34 Seneca 4 comms
PA-28 Cherokee 4 comms
U206 Stationair 2 comms
UTVA-75 5 trng
COMOROS ISLANDS
COMORES MILITARY AVIATION
This small group of islands off the coast of East Africa has a military aviation element cosisting of a Cessna 402B, an Aerospatiale Corvette and an AS350B Ecureuil. Used for VIP duties, they are based at Moroni-Hahaya international airport.
CONGO
FORCE AERIENNE CONGOLAISE (AIR FORCE)
The Congolese air force is believed to retain around a dozen of the 16 MiG-21s it received in 1986. A squadron of MiG-17Fs and a two-seat MiG-15UTI trainer complete the combat element. Maintenance and support issues make availability of these aircraft questionable. It is likely that the MiG-15UTI and Noratlas will not be retained for much longer. Civil unrest during 1997 centred on the country's principal airport, where many aircraft are in open storage, including the Mi-8s, Noratlas and at least one An-24. The main operating bases are near the capital, Brazzaville, and at Loubomo and Point-Noire on the coast.
Type No Role
MiG-21MF/U Fishbed 12 int/FGA
MiG-17F Fresco 8 FGA
MiG-15UTI Midget 1 trng
An-24 Coke/An-26 Curl 2/1 trans
N2501F Noratlas 1 trans
Boeing 727 1 trans/VIP
Mi-8 Hip 3 trans
SA365 Dauphin 1 comms
SA316 Alouette III 2 comms
CONGO, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF
AIR FORCE
The former Zaire had a small but well-organised air force before civil war engulfed the country, leading to a change of government in July 1997. The new regime promised elections, but by August 1998 the country was once again gripped by civil war, with some factions aided by troops from neighbouring countries, including Rwanda, Uganda and Zimbabwe. Apart from a few communications types, both fixed and rotary wing, it is unlikely that many of the aircraft listed below remain serviceable, particularly as no reports of their use have been made, apart from the crash of a single transport. Before 1997 the air force comprised two groups: 1 Groupement Aérien was responsible for logistic support and training and 2 Groupement Aérien Tactique controlled the combat and tactical-transport squadrons based at Kamina. 2 GAT consisted of 21 Wing with Mirage Vs and MB326s and 22 Wing with DHC-5D Buffalos. 1 GA, based at Kinshasa, controlled the other types which were operated by three wings with five constituent squadrons.
Type No Role
Mirage 5 6 int/attack
MB326GB/K 9/6 trng/attack
C-130H Hercules 2 trans
DHC-5D Buffalo 3 trans
C-47 Dakota 8 trans
C212-200 Aviocar 1 trans
707-300 1 trans/VIP
727-100 1 trans/VIP
MU-2J 2 VIP
AS332 Super Puma 1 trans
SA330 Puma 9 trans
SA316 Alouette III 7 comms
Cessna 310R 10 comms
SF260MZ 9 trng
Reims Cessna FRA150 12 trng
BN-2A Islander 1 utility
COSTA RICA
GUARDIA CIVIL SECCION AEREA (CIVIL GUARD)
As Costa Rica has not had armed forces since the end of a civil war in 1948, the air arm is part of the Policia de Fronteras, one of five elements of the public security ministry. This force is based at San Jose's international airport, but uses airports and airfields - particularly Liberia in the north and Golfito in the south - around the country. The single Cessna O-2/337 Super Skymaster is the last of three received in 1986 under a US military aid programme which began in 1985 with the delivery of five helicopters. The Mi-17 is the most recent delivery.
Type No Role
Cessna O-2A 1 support
Cessna U206G Stationair 4 comms
Mi-17 Hip 1 trans
PA-32-300 Cherokee Six 1 comms
PA-31 Navajo 1 comms
PA-34 Seneca 1 comms
PA-23 Aztec 1 comms
MD 500E 2 comms/SAR
DHC-4A Caribou 2 trans
COTE D'IVOIRE
FORCE AERIENNE DE COTE D'IVOIRE (AIR FORCE)
The Ivory Coast has only one combat unit, operating a small force of Alpha Jets from Bouake. This is also the home to the other aircraft, apart from the VIP types, which are stationed at Abidjan international airport.
Type No Role
Alpha Jet 5 attack/trng
Beech F33C Bonanza 4 trng
Fokker 100 1 VIP
Gulfstream III 1 VIP
Gulfstream IV 1 VIP
Super King Air 1 comms
Cessna 421 1 comms
Cessna 401 1 liaison/trng
SA330H Puma 1 VIP/trans
SA365 Dauphin 1 comms/VIP
CROATIA
HRVATSKE ZRACNE SNAGE (AIR FORCE)
The Croat air force was formed in the third quarter of 1991, after the former Yugoslav republic declared independence. Its main combat type, the MiG-21, has been modified by Croatia, including integration of new weapons. The air force has decided to improve the type further and Elbit will supply its MiG-21 upgrade. As part of the deal Croatia is likely to receive the Python 4 AAM, the Litening laser designator pod and the Opher LGB. The HZS has requested ex-USAF F-16A/Bs, 12 single seaters and two trainers. The deal awaits US Government approval, which may be considered less urgent following Operation Allied Force which wiped out the bulk of its neighbour Serbia's MiG-29 fleet. Other jet types in the inventory - the Jastrebs and Galebs, as well as the piston-engined Kraguj - were captured on Udbina airbase during Operation Storm against Serbs in Krajina in August 1995. The Mi-24s were procured in January 1995 while the UN arms embargo on former Yugoslav republics was still in place. The JetRangers were the first aircraft ordered after the signing of the Dayton Peace Accord that ended the fighting in neighbouring Bosnia. Under the OSCE arms limitations agreement struck after Dayton, the Croats are limited to 62 combat aircraft and 21 attack helicopters.
The HZS is split into four squadrons, which operate the MiG-21s, Hind and Hip helicopters; a training school with upgraded PC-9s, JetRangers, MD500s and UTVA-75s; a training unit with Galebs; a fixed-wing transport unit with all transport types apart from the Sabreliners and Challengers which are operated by a VIP transport squadron; and last a unit that operates the fire bombers. The air force's bases are at Zagreb-Lucko, Zagreb-Pleso, Pula, Split airport, Split-Divulje and Zadar-Zemunik. Udbina was to be refurbished but needed to be cleared of mines and other unexploded munitions; it is not clear how far this work has progressed.
Type No Role
MiG-21bis/MF/RF/U 30 int/att/rec/trng
J1 Jastreb some attack/recce
J20 Kraguj some COIN
Mi-24V Hind 15 attack
Mi-8T/P/S/MTV-1 Hip 25 trans/assault
An-2 Colt 13 trans
An-32B Cline 3 trans
CN235M 5* trans
CL215/CL415 2/1 fire bomber
Cessna 172 1 comms
Cessna T210N 1 comms
Sabreliner 75A 1 VIP
CL601 Challenger 2 VIP
Dornier 28 Skyservant 1 trans
PC-9 20 trng
G2 Galeb some trng/recce
Bell 206B-3 JetRanger 10 trng/utility
MD500 4 trng/trans/AOP
Mi-2 Hoplite 1 trans
PA-28 Warrior 3 trans
PA-36 2 trans
UTVA-75 10 trng
CUBA
DEFENSE ANTI-AEREA Y FUERZA AEREA REVOLUCIONARIA (ANTI-AIRCRAFT DEFENCE AND REVOLUTIONARY AIR FORCE)
Although Cuba's air force is one of the largest and best equipped in Latin America, its effectiveness has been compromised by the withdrawal of technical and operational support after the collapse of the Soviet Union and the island's poor economic situation. Foreign defence analysts estimate that nearly one-quarter of the aircraft in the DAAFAR's inventory may no longer be operational, a situation that is expected to continue to deteriorate. Operationally the air force is separated into three geographic commands: Zone Aerea Oeste, Zone Aerea Oriente, and Zone Aerea Central. Each area command has air defence, ground attack and transport squadrons. Training falls under the western area and the Mi-14 helicopters operate within the central command.
Type No Role
MiG-29/UB Fulcrum 18/2 FGA/int/trng
MiG-21F/PFM/ MF/bis/U Fishbed 30/35/20/80/18 FGA/int/trg
MiG-23M/BN/U Flogger 20/45/4 FGA
Mi-24D Hind 12 attack
Mi-14PL Haze 14 ASW/SAR
An-24 Coke 4 trans
An-26 Curl 20 trans
An-30 Clank 1 survey
An-32 Cline 2 trans
Yak-40 Codling 2 trans
An-2 Colt 20 trans
Mi-2 Hoplite 6 trans
Mi-8/17 Hip 36/14 trans
L-39 Albatros 25 trng
MiG-17F Fresco 18 trng
Zlin 326 20 trng
Zlin 142 Scout 10 utility/comms
CYPRUS
CYPRUS AIR FORCE
The Cyprus national guard air arm was renamed the Cyprus air force in 1996; it adopted Greek national military markings at the same time. It has two operating bases, Lakamia and Paphos. Although only the PC-9s are stationed at the latter, a military base is being developed next to the airport which will be made available to Greek air force F-16 units. Delivered in 1989, the PC-9s are used for training and unarmed patrols. The Gazelles are the most aggressive type in the inventory, being armed with the HOT anti-tank missile. A diplomatic storm blew across the divided island in 1996 when it was announced that the Greek Cypriots intended to import Russian S-300/SA-10 long-range surface-to-air missile systems. Turkey threatened air strikes against the sites so the missiles have been deployed on the Greek island of Crete and shorter-range Russian Tor/SA-15s are to be based on Cyprus. The Greek Cypriot police also has an air element based at Larnaca equipped with two Bell 412 helicopters and a BN2T Turbine Islander. Turkish army Cessna U-17s and UH-ID Iroquois are based at Salamis and Nicosia in Northern Cyprus on permanent detachment, while the UK maintains bases at Akrotiri and Dhekelia.
Type No Role
Bell 206L3 LongRanger 3 obs/liaison
BN-2B Maritime Defender 1 patrol/trans
MD500 2 obs/liaison
PC-9 2 patrol/trng
PZL-Swidnik Kania 2 trans
SA342L-1 Gazelle 4 anti-tank/comms
CZECH REPUBLIC
CESK LETECTVO A PROTIVZDUSNA OBRANA (AIR FORCE AND AIR DEFENCE)
The Czech Government issued a request for information for up to 36 fighters to replace its ageing Soviet-era fleet from 2003. Competitors include the F-16C/D, F/A-18E/F, Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon and Mirage 2000-5. Until the new fighters are delivered the MiG-21 fleetwill bear the burden of air defence. Ground attack and reconnaissance duties will devolve almost entirely on the L-159 when it enters service in late 1999. The prototype single-seat variant flew in August 1998 and the first for the air force in October 1999. It is a joint Let/Boeing programme based on the L-39 family with a radar, AlliedSignal/ITEC F124 turbofan engine and the ability to use a range of standard NATO weapons. The Czechs also have a transport requirement and are considering the G222, CN235 and C-130. The Czech Republic became a member of NATO in April 1999.
Most of the inventory was inherited from the former Ceskoslovenske Letectvo (Czechoslovakian air force) which was divided up 2:1 in favour of the Czechs, although the MiG-29 fleet was split equally with Slovakia and the Czechs received all the MiG-23s, which were retired in late 1998. In July 1994, the Czech air force swapped its MiG-29s with Poland for 11 W-3 helicopters. The air force units are divided between the tactical air corps and the air defence corps, or are directly reporting. Within the tactical command are a SAR unit and three wings with nine squadrons divided among them operating the ground attack, assault transport and training aircraft. The air defence corps has a single wing with three squadrons which operate MiG-21s and L-39s. Direct reporting units include the remaining transport squadrons. The government state flying service operates a Challenger, Let 410, Tu-134, Tu-154, and a Yak-40 on VIP/communications duties (not listed below).
Type No Role
MiG-21MF/UM Fishbed 40/20 int/FGA/trng
Su-22M4/UM Fitter 18/5 attack/trng
Su-25BK/UBK Frogfoot 24 attack/trng
L-159 72* FGA
Mi-24V/D/DU Hind 36 attack
Mi-8/17 Hip 40 trans/AEW/cmd pt/ELINT
An-24RV Coke 2 trans
An-26 Curl 4 trans/ELINT
An-30 Clank 1 survey
L-410M/T/UVP Turbolet 15/3 trans/survey
L-610 1 trans
Tu-154 Careless 1 VIP
W-3 Sokol 7/4 trans/SAR
Mi-2 Hoplite 33 liaison/trng
L-39 Albatros 37 trng/TT/FGA
L-29 Delfin 24 trng
Zlin 142 8 trng
DENMARK
KONGELIGE DANSKE FLYVEVBEN (ROYAL DANISH AIR FORCE)
Denmark's air force is responsible for air operations over its homeland, the Faeroe Islands and over the vast icy expanse of Greenland. The air force consists of two commands, Tactical Air Command and Air Material Command. All aircraft are controlled through the former. In 1999 the Danish Government announced changes to the armed forces aimed at completing the shift from Cold War home-defence warriors to international expeditionary troops. As a result one fighter squadron, 723 at Aalborg, will disband, reducing the number of units operating mid-life updated F-16s to three, 726 at Aalborg will join 727 and 730 at Skrydstrup. The number of operational F-16s will, however, remain at the pre-review level. 721 Squadron, which operates all three transport types, will shift from Vaerlose to Karup, while the co-located S-61 SAR squadron, number 722, will move to Karup with the flying naval units. This allows Vaerlose to be closed. Karup is also home to the Saab T-17 Supporter equipped flying school.
While cutting back on its operating units, Denmark has committed to several equipment programmes, the longest term of which is a commitment to the engineering manufacturing and development phase of the JSF programme, the first international partner to do so. It has also earmarked funding to buy four transports to replace the C-130Hs; the C-130J is seen as the most likely choice. Denmark is also a participant in the four-nation Nordic Standard Helicopter Programme which will be used to replace the elderly S-61 fleet. It has also reserved funding for new F-16 radars to be fitted from 2004, which will see the aircraft out of service in around 2010. The remaining two Gulfstream IIIs are also likely to be replaced by a similar number of Challengers, for which the Danish air force already holds options. The GIIIs bear the brunt of the air force's commitment to Greenland, with one aircraft permanently based at Sondre Stromfjord. In September 1998 the Danish air force became the first overseas customer for the NATO Flying Training in Canada programme.
Type No Role
C-130H Hercules 3 trans
CL604 Challenger 2/2† MR/VIP
F-16A/B Fighting Falcon 55/14 int/trng
Gulfstream III 2 MR/VIP
Sikorsky S-61A-1 Sea King 8 SAR
T-17 Supporter 28 trng/liaison
† on option
SOVAERNETS FLYVETJENESTE (ROYAL DANISH NAVAL FLYING SERVICE)
As part of the 1999 defence review naval aviation will move from Vaerlose, which is closing, to Karup. The Danish navy operates eight Lynxes for fishery protection in home waters and those around Greenland and the Faeroe Islands, and for tactical missions such as airborne picket, damage assessment and airborne relay. It intends to keep the Lynx in service until 2015. Having modified the aircraft in 1990-4 by fitting an improved tactical data system with ESM, FLIR and uprated Gem 42 engines, the aircraft are now being upgraded to a near Super Lynx standard. The new Lynx standard includes a 360° radar, nose-mounted FLIR turret, and reverse direction tailrotor and composite main rotor blades. The Lynxes deploy at sea aboard five frigates.
HAERENS FLYVETJENESTE (ARMY FLYING SERVICE)
Following the 1999 defence review army aviation will move from Vandel to Karup, joining the navy flying units and the air force's training school. Army aviation is to receive five medium transport helicopters; the type will be selected as part of the four nation Nordic Standard Helicopter Programme. The army air service operates 12 MD500Ms and 12 AS550 Fennecs. The latter are armed with the TOW anti-tank missile, guided using the Swedish HeliTow sight, carrying two missiles on each side of the fuselage and extra rounds in the cabin. The MD500s are used as scout platforms. The helicopters are divided between an anti-tank helicopter company which operates the Fennecs and four of the MD500s, while an observation company operates the remaining aircraft.
DJIBOUTI
FORCE AERIENNE DJIBOUTIENNE (AIR FORCE)
The An-28 Cash was supplied by Poland as, possibly, were the Mi-2 and Mi-8. Photographic evidence reveals that at least one Mi-2 has been fitted with rocket pods, the only armed aircraft within the air force. This limited combat capability is backed up by the French air force, which has maintained a significant force of around 3,250 personnel in the country since the colony gained independence in 1977. Air assets include a squadron of Mirage F1Cs, C-160s, Alouette IIIs, Pumas and SA355 Ecureuil helicopters.
Type No Role
An-28 Cash 1 trans
Falcon 50 1 VIP
Mi-2 Hoplite 2 trans/assault
Mi-8 Hip 5 trans
AS355F Ecureuil 2 comms
Cessna 402C 1 comms
Cessna U206G 1 liaison
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
FUERZA AEREA DOMINICANA
The air force is based at San Isidro west of Santo Domingo where the southern zone is based. A second operating base is at Santiago where the northern zone has headquarters. The air force is a counter-insurgency and transport organisation. It has requirements for two C212-400s. Dominica is acquiring eight ex-Chilean air force T-35B Pillans. The first four were delivered in October 1999. Ten AS350B Ecureuils were acquired at around the same time.
Type No Role
A-37 Dragonfly 7 COIN
Cessna O-2 Super Skymaster 2 COIN
T-34B Mentor 8 trng
C-47 Dakota 3 trans
Commander 680 2 trans
Queen Air 80/King Air C90 2/1 comms
PA-31 Navajo 2 comms
Cessna 210/207 1/1 comms
Cessna 404 1 comms
T-41D Mescalero 5 trng
UH-1H Iroquois 9 patrol/SAR
SE3130 Alouette II 1 comms
SA316 Alouette III 2 comms/VIP
AS365 Dauphin 2 VIP
AS350B Ecureuil 10* trans
MD369 1 comms
ECUADOR
FUERZA AEREA ECUATORIANA (AIR FORCE)
Ecuador has one of the best-equipped air forces in South America due to simmering border disputes with its neighbours. It fought a short undeclared war with Peru in February 1995. The Israeli-built Kfirs have been delivered in two batches, the second of which in 1996 possibly included the Python 3 air-to-air missile. A two-Kfir attrition batch arrived in Ecuador in 1999. Discussions have been held with Kfir-manufacturer IAI to upgrade the type but no contract has been forthcoming. Ecuador held discussions with MAPO throughout most of 1998 on a 12 MiG-29 purchase, but this subsequently came to nought. Ecuador has been linked with a purchase of up to 12 ex-USMC A-4M Skyhawks. US attempts to block delivery of the 1996 Kfir batch following the border dispute do not augur well for such a buy. The other fast jet type is the Mirage F1E. Air force command is divided into two "Zona Aerea", one based at Mariscal Sucre - Quito's international airport - and the other at Simon Bolivar Airport, Guayaquil. The Quito-based I Zona Aerea is subdivided into two transport squadrons and the presidential flight, while II Zona Aerea has three wings and a flying school. The Kfirs, Jaguars and Mirage F1s each have a single squadron, all of which fall within a group based at Taura. The three COIN types also are split into three type-dedicated squadrons, while a Guayaquil-based wing includes a Twin Otter squadron, a Cessna 150 training squadron and a helicopter squadron with the JetRangers and Alouette IIIs
Type No Role
Mirage F1JE/JA 14 int
Kfir C2/TC2 17 attack/trg
Jaguar EB/ES 2/9 attack
A-37B Dragonfly 24 COIN
Strikemaster Mk89/89A 10 COIN/trng
AT-33 Shooting Star 22 COIN/trng
DHC-5D Buffalo 1 trans
C-130B/H/L100-30 4/1/1 trans
DHC-6 Twin Otter 300 3 trans
Sabreliner 40R/60 3/1 comms
Bell 206B JetRanger 10 trans
SA316B Alouette III 5 trans
T-34C Turbo Mentor 19 trng
T-41D Mescalero 2 trng
Bell 212 1 VIP
UH-1B/H Iroquois 2/24 trans
BAe 748 1/2† VIP/trans
Boeing 727-100/200 3†/3† trans
F28-4000 Fellowship 1† trans
† Tame airlines
AVIACION NAVAL ECUATORIANA (NAVY AVIATION)
Based at Simon Bolivar Airport, Guayaquil, Ecuador's naval air arm gained its first naval helicopters in 1999 when two Bell/Helidyne 412s were delivered, armed with Penguin ASMs as well as search radar, FLIR and dipping sonar. Its helicopters can operate from the navy's two frigates.
Type No Role
T-34C Turbo-Mentor 3 trng
CN235M 2 trans
Citation I 1 VIP
Super King Air 200/300 1/1 comms/VIP
Cessna 320E 1 comms
Bell 206B JetRanger 5 comms
Bell 222 2 comms
Bell/Helidyne 412 2 ASuW
SERVICIO AEREO DEL EJERCITO ECUATORIANA (ARMY AIR SERVICE)
Ecuador's army air service is subordinate to a brigade. It is divided into two air squadrons, one based with air force and navy units at Simon Bolivar airport, Guayaquil, and the second co-located with the military academy at Mariscal Sucre, Quito. They deploy with the army with a mixture of equipment depending on the tasks. Ecuador requires army helicopters in the S-70 category.
Type No Role
SA342K/L Gazelle 13 attack
CN235M 1 trans
IAI-201 Arava 6 trans
DHC-5D Buffalo 1 trans
Citation II 1 survey
King Air 100/200 1/1 survey/comms
AS350B Ecureuil 4 comms
PC-6B Turbo-Porter 3 trans
SA330L Puma 2 trans
AS332B Super Puma 4 trans
Bell 214B 1 trans
Sabreliner 40R 1 VIP
Learjet 24D 1 survey
UH-1 Iroquois 1 trans
SA315B Lama 3/1 SAR/survey
Cessna 172 3 trng
EGYPT
AL QUWWAT AL JAWWIYA IL MISRIYA (ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT AIR FORCE)
US-built combat aircraft form the backbone of the Egyptian air force, once reliant on the Soviet Union. It operates various MiGs and their Chinese derivatives and has significant numbers of F-16s in service, which have increased with a 1999 order for 24 more F-16C/D block 40s, split 50:50 between single- and twin-seat aircraft. The aircraft will be delivered with advanced IFF and an AGM-84 Harpoon ASM capability, both of which will be retrofitted to the rest of the F-16C/D fleet. Egypt's air defence network is bolstered by the six Hawkeye AEW aircraft in service since 1996, which are to be upgraded to E-2C Update II standard with the APS-145 radar. Egypt accepted its first AH-64As in 1995 and has expressed interest in having the aircraft rebuilt as AH-64D Longbow models. The Czech L-59s are equipped with AlliedSignal avionics, a HUD and a Western mission system. In 1999 it emerged that the Egyptian air force is to overhaul its trainer fleet. It is looking at a purchase of 95 new basic trainers, either S211s or the China/Pakistan K-8 Karakorum, which would be licence-built and replace L-29s and L-59s. It is also seeking an Alpha Jet advanced trainer replacement and is studying the Aero L-139/159 or the Hawk. Egypt has also held talks with Dasa about an avionics upgrade for its 30 F-4Es.
Type No Role
F-16A/B Fighting Falcon 30/6 int/attack/trng
F-16C/D Fighting Falcon 133/40* int/attack/ttrng
Mirage 2000EM/B 16/3 int/attack/ttrng
Chengdu F-7A 60 int
MiG-21PF/PM/R/U 40/10/10 recce/trng
Mirage 5DE/E2/SDR/SDD 54/16/6/5 int/recce/trng
F-4E Phantom 30 int/attack
E-2C Hawkeye 6 AEW
Shenyang F-6/FT-6 (MiG-19) 40/5 attack/trng
Alpha Jet MS1/MS2 25/13 trng/attack
AH-64A Apache 36 attack
SA342K/L/M Gazelle 65/9 attack
Mi-8/17 Hip 40/20 trans
C-130H/H-30 Hercules 19/3/2/2 trans/ELINT/VIP
Beech 1900C 6/2 ELINT/VIP
DHC-5D Buffalo 5/4 trans/nav trng
CH-47C/D Chinook 14/1/4* trans/VIP
Falcon 20 2/1 trans/VIP
Gulfstream III/IV/IV-SP 2/1/2 VIP
Agusta AS-61 2 comms
UH-60A/L Black Hawk 2/2* VIP
Commando Mk1/2/B/E 5/17/2/4 trans/VIP/ELINT
L-59E 46 trng/attack
EMB-312 Tucano 46 trng
Hiller UH-12E 17 trng
EGYPTIAN NAVY
Egypt's 10 Super SeaSprite have been remanufactured from US Navy stocks, and are the only examples of the SH-2 to be equipped with dipping sonar. First deliveries were in 1997. The Egyptian navy deploys the SH-2s aboard four frigates, while all its aircraft are shore based at Alexandria.
Type No Role
Super SeaSprite 10 ASW/ASuW
Sea King Mk47 5 ASW/ASuW
SA342L Gazelle 12 attack/ASW
EL SALVADOR
FUERZA AEREA SALVADORENA (AIR FORCE)
El Salvador suffered from a civil war from the early 1980s until a peace accord was signed in 1992. During the civil war the government was supported by the USA which supplied aircraft. El Salvador received five Chilean air force T-35Bs in 1999. It requires combat aircraft and transports in the C235/G222 category. The COIN fixed-wing types are grouped together in a single squadron based at Comalpa International Airport. It shares the COIN/internal security role with a helicopter squadron equipped with MD500s, Defenders and armed UH-1Ms. These are based at Ilopango with a squadron of UH-1H transports, as are the fixed-wing transports and the training school.
Type No Role
A-37B Dragonfly 8 COIN
AC-47/Turbo AC-47 2/2 COIN
O-2A Super Skymaster 9 COIN
Hughes 500ME 7 COIN/army sup
MD500MD Defender 14 COIN/army sup
UH-1M/H Iroquois 10/36/4 COIN/trans/SAR
CM170 Magister 6 COIN/trng
Arava 201 3 trans
C-47/Turbo C-47 4 trans
Cessna 180/182/185 6/1/1 liaison
DC-6B 1 VIP/trans
Fairchild Merlin IIIB 1 trans
Gulfstream Commander 1 trans
Socata Rallye 235M 9 trng
T-41C/D Mescalero 7 trng
T-34A Mentor 4 trng
T-35B 10 trng
EQUATORIAL GUINEA
GUARDIA NACIONAL (NATIONAL GUARD)
Tasked solely with transport duties, the service operates a VIP Falcon 900 and an An-32 Cline. A Yak-40 Codling, which was replaced by the Falcon 900, remains in storage. Both aircraft are based at the nation's capital, Malabo.
ERITREA
ERITREAN AIR FORCE
Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993, with which it has disputed border regions since. A minor war broke out in May 1998; despite a US-brokered peace deal in June 1998 it escalated into a major conflict during the first half of 1999. Both sides have suffered heavy losses. Eritrea acquired 10 MiG-29s - probably from Moldova - in late 1998/early 1999, but lost at least two during the fighting. Unconfirmed reports suggest Su-25s and MiG-21s may have reached Eritrea as well. The Eritrean fleet has been amassed since independence; the Redigo trainers were delivered in 1994 and six MB339s - one lost during the fighting in 1998 - were accepted in 1996/7. They have light attack and training roles. All aircraft are based at Asmara.
Type No Role
MiG-29 Fulcrum 8 int/attack
MB339FD 5 attack/training
Harbin Y-12 4 trans
Aermacchi Redigo 8 trainer
Mil Mi-17 4 rescue
Dornier 228 1 VIP trans
ESTONIA
EESTI OHU VAGI (ARMY AVIATION)
The Estonian air arm was re-established in 1991 after the Baltic state emerged from the Soviet Union. It is equipped with two An-2 Colts used for transport and medevac duties and two Mi-2 Hoplites for SAR and medevac work. All four aircraft are based at the Amari air base, although the Mi-2s are grounded due to a lack of funds. The Estonian border guard has a larger aircraft fleet which includes two Let 410s and four Mi-8 transport helicopters.
ETHIOPIA
YE ITYOPYA AYER HAYL (AIR FORCE)
Ethiopia emerged from civil war in May 1991 when the Mengistu regime was overthrown. In May-June 1998 the country was engaged in a border dispute with Eritrea which gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993. The conflict was rekindled in 1999, both sides launching bombing attacks and acquiring fighters in an effort to gain a decisive advantage. Ethiopia acquired 10 Su-27s from Russia. A Su-27 was lost during a display, but appears to have been replaced. Eritrea claims to have shot down an armed helicopter and around seven MiG-23, while reports from Addis Ababa reveal that air force pilots recalled to duty for the war have suffered "harassment" because of the loss of 10 aircraft during the war.
The overthrow of Mengistu's regime and the break-up of the Soviet Union meant that the latter's technical support for the air force ended almost overnight, leaving the Ethiopian air force with a poor serviceability record. A programme to upgrade at least a squadron of MiG-21s was launched in early 1998, with Israel's IAI and Elbit submitting separate bids with Russia's MAPO. Elbit won an order in July 1998, but international pressure appears to have annulled the deal.
Two Mi-14 anti-submarine helicopters, of limited value in a land-locked country, are believed to be operating simultaneously with Mi-8s and Mi-17s in the transport role with their specialised equipment removed. A small army aviation element operates three transports and a handful of helicopters.
Type No Role
Su-27A/U 8/2 int
MiG-23BN/UB Flogger 18/4 int/attack/trng
MiG-21MF/U Fishbed 16/6 int/attack/trng
MiG-17 Fresco 15 attack
An-12 Cub 11 trans
Yak-40 Codling 1 VIP
Mi-24 Hind 18 attack
Mi-8/17 Hip 21 assault/trans
Mi-14PL Haze 2 trans
An-26 Curl 1 trans
An-32 Cline 1 trans
C-130B Hercules 2 trans
SA316 Alouette III 20 trans
SF260TP 12 trng
L-39ZO Albatros 15 trng
ARMY
DHC-6 Twin Otter 2 trans
Cessna 401 1 trans
UH-1H Iroquois 5 trans
Source: Flight International
