Defence

Why does the US buy Soviet-era combat aircraft from Russia?

In a strategic maneuver reflecting geopolitical complexities, the United States has acquired a substantial cache of Soviet-era combat planes from Kazakhstan, a key ally of Russia.

Reports indicate that the acquisition encompasses 81 obsolete aircraft, including MiG-31 interceptors, MiG-27 bombers, MiG-29 fighters, and Su-24 bombers, with a sale value declared at $2.26 million, Which implies that each aircraft was $19,300.

Kazakhstan, in its transition towards modernizing its military arsenal, has been phasing out outdated Soviet-era aircraft in favor of more advanced models like the Russian Su-30SM multi-role aircraft.

The decision to offload these aircraft, valued at one billion tenge (£1.8 million), underlines Kazakhstan’s pragmatic approach towards military modernization. The sale notice emphasized the unusable state of the aircraft, rendering their modernization economically unfeasible, and limiting their utility as sources of spare parts.

While the rationale behind the US purchase remains undisclosed, speculation suggests potential implications for Ukraine’s Armed Forces (AFU), given that the acquired aircraft types are already in service there.

There are indications that these aircraft might eventually find their way to Kyiv, where they could serve various purposes such as disassembly for spare parts or deployment as decoys at airfields. This move underscores the evolving dynamics in the region, particularly amidst heightened tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Historically, Kazakhstan has maintained close ties with Russia, stemming from their shared Soviet legacy. However, recent geopolitical shifts, exacerbated by Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine, have prompted Kazakhstan to recalibrate its alliances, drawing closer to Western nations.

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. SOUTH 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.