Defence

Which Country Has the Largest Fleet of Fighter Aircraft?

Fighter planes are crucial for a country’s defense and military strength. They are designed to engage in aerial combat and protect national airspace. Different nations invest heavily in their air forces, leading to varying numbers of fighter jets.

Among them, the United States stands out as the country with the most fighter planes, boasting a diverse fleet equipped with advanced technology. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the fighter jet inventories of different countries, highlighting the significance of air power in modern warfare.

1. United States

The United States Air Force (USAF) ranks first in the world for the largest air force, boasting a total of 13,209 aircraft. Among these, approximately 1,854 are fighter jets, including iconic models like the F-22 Raptor and the F-35 Lightning II. These advanced fighters are essential for air dominance and ground support. The USAF’s fleet also includes various attack aircraft, logistical support planes, and helicopters, making it a cornerstone of American military power.

2. Russia

Holding the second position globally, Russia boasts a formidable fleet of 4,255 aircraft, which includes 809 fighter jets and 730 attack planes. The Russian Air Force operates a diverse range of fighters, such as the Su-57 and MiG-29. These jets are designed for air superiority and ground attack missions, reflecting Russia’s commitment to maintaining a formidable aerial presence.

3. China

In the race for air superiority, China comes in second with 3,304 aircraft. Among these, 1,207 are fighters and bombers.The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) operates advanced models like the Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-11, which are crucial for securing Chinese airspace and engaging in regional conflicts.

4. India

India ranks fourth with an impressive total of 2,296 aircraft, including around 606 fighter jets.The Indian Air Force (IAF) operates a mix of indigenous and imported fighters, such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and the Mirage 2000. The IAF plays a vital role in protecting India’s borders and maintaining regional stability.

5. North Korea

South Korea comes in 5th place with a total of 905 aircraft, including approximately 400 fighter jets. The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) uses advanced models like the F-15K and KF-21 Boramae, enhancing its ability to counter threats from North Korea and maintain air superiority.

6.North Korea ranks sixth, with a total of 947 aircraft, of which around 400 are fighter jets. The Korean People’s Army Air Force primarily operates older models, such as the MiG-15 and MiG-21, which are used for defense and limited offensive capabilities.

7. Pakistan

Pakistan ranks seventh with 820 aircraft, including around 300 fighter jets. The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) operates a mix of fighters, such as the JF-17 Thunder and F-16, which are crucial for national defense and regional security.

8.Egypt: Egypt’s Air Force ranks eighth globally with a fleet of 1,080 aircraft. The Egyptian Air Force (EAF) operates a diverse array of multirole fighters, including the F-16 and Rafale, supported by a robust helicopter fleet. EAF’s ongoing modernization efforts highlight its focus on maintaining regional stability and strengthening its strategic capabilities.
9. Japan

Japan holds the ninth position with the fleet of 1,459 aircraft, underscoring Japan’s focus on air defense and regional security. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) operates advanced fighters like the F-35 and Mitsubishi F-2, focusing on air defense and humanitarian missions.

10. Saudi Arabia

Finally, Saudi Arabia ranks tenth with 690 aircraft, including around 300 fighter jets. The Royal Saudi Air Force operates a fleet that includes advanced models like the Eurofighter Typhoon and F-15, playing a significant role in regional security and operations.

Defence

Azerbaijan is Now the 4th Nation to Obtain JF-17 Fighters from Pakistan

Azerbaijan has officially inducted the JF-17 Block III aircraft, developed jointly by Pakistan and China, into its air force.

The presentation of this advanced fighter jet was made to President Ilham Aliyev, who also serves as the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of Azerbaijan, on September 25 at Heydar Aliyev International Airport.

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This development comes at a crucial time when Azerbaijan is engaged in a tense standoff with its neighbor, Armenia, following its recent capture of the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

The acquisition of these fighter jets marks a significant shift in Azerbaijan’s defense strategy, moving away from its traditional arms supplier, Russia, and instead strengthening ties with Turkey and Pakistan. Meanwhile, Armenia has been deepening its defense ties with India, which is emerging as a key supplier for its military needs.

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Azerbaijan’s ambassador to Iran, Ali Alizada, confirmed the acquisition on social media platform X on Wednesday. Alizada, who has also served as an envoy to pakistan air force, revealed that the two countries had signed a $1.6 billion deal in February. Under this agreement, Azerbaijan will receive eight jf 17 aircraft from Pakistan, along with a supply of air-to-surface missiles.

🇦🇿@Presidentaz on JF-17C ✊

JF-17C modern multi-purpose aircraft have been included in the arsenal of the #Azerbaijan Air Force . #JF17 #JF17C pic.twitter.com/p3qPhCgwBV— Ali Alizada 🇦🇿 (@Ali_F_Alizada) September 25, 2024

The JF-17C Block III, co-produced by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and China Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC), is a lightweight, multirole fighter jet with advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground combat capabilities. Known for its high maneuverability at medium and low altitudes, this jet will significantly bolster Azerbaijan’s air force capabilities.

Pakistan, a long-time supporter of Azerbaijan, especially in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, has further solidified its ties with this latest defense collaboration.