Скачать или смотреть The Ethiopian Air Force is the aerial warfare branch of the Ethiopian National Defense Force,

Here’s a clear, up-to-date overview of the Ethiopian Air Force (ETAF) — its history, mission, structure, equipment, and role today:
🇪🇹 Ethiopian Air Force — Key Facts
🛩️ Overview
The Ethiopian Air Force is the aerial warfare branch of the Ethiopian National Defense Force, responsible for defending Ethiopia’s airspace and supporting national security. It is one of Africa’s oldest air forces, tracing its roots back to the 1930s and playing an enduring role in national defense and regional operations. �
ENA English
📜 History & Background
The Air Force was established around 1935, making it one of the earliest military air arms in Africa. �
ENA English
It has evolved through decades, including during the Eritrean–Ethiopian War and more recent internal and regional operations. Historical aircraft such as Su-27 fighters saw combat in conflicts like the late 1990s war with Eritrea. �
Wikipedia
🎯 Mission & Vision
According to official ETAF sources, its core objectives are to:
Defend Ethiopia’s airspace and sovereignty.
Achieve and maintain air superiority and operational readiness.
Provide close air support to ground forces.
Respond rapidly to natural or man-made crises. �
etaf.gov.et
🏢 Organization & Bases
The Air Force is organized into divisions by geographic and operational function. Key air bases include:
Central Base — Harar Meda (Bishoftu)
Eastern Base — Dire Dawa
Northern Base — Mekele
Western Base — Bahir Dar
These bases host combat squadrons, transport units, and helicopter detachments. �
etaf.gov.et
Harar Meda is the principal hub for Ethiopian Air Force operations and training. �
Wikipedia
✈️ Aircraft & Capabilities
The ETAF operates a mix of combat and support aircraft:
Combat Aircraft
Sukhoi Su-27 fighters – long-range, air superiority jets historically used in major conflicts. �
Wikipedia
Newer acquisitions include Russian Su-30 variants and Turkish Akıncı unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), boosting modern strike and surveillance capabilities. �
Overt Defense
Transport & Support
C-130 Hercules transports for troop/logistics movement.
Mi-17 helicopters for multi-mission roles (transport, medevac, rescue).
UAVs (drones) for ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance) and tactical support. �
Assendelft
These aircraft provide a balanced mix of air defense, ground support, transport, and reconnaissance capabilities. �
Assendelft
👨‍✈️ Personnel & Training
The Air Force emphasizes quality training for pilots, technicians, and support crews. Its training programs include domestic and international instruction, as well as specialized programs to handle modern technology and aircraft. �
Assendelft
🌍 Operational Roles
National Defense
Protects Ethiopian airspace and supports ground and special operations when needed. �
etaf.gov.et
Regional Missions
ETAF has participated in regional security efforts, including air operations against Al-Shabaab in Somalia in coordination with Somali forces. �
The Reporter Ethiopia
⚙️ Modernization & Partnerships
In recent years, the Air Force has undergone modernization efforts to improve technology, infrastructure, and capabilities. Leadership has publicly framed these reforms as essential to making ETAF one of the most capable air forces in Africa. �
ENA English
Additionally, Ethiopia hosts forums and cooperation programs with other African air forces, aiming to share training, technology, and strategy across the continent. �
ENA English
🛡️ Strategic Importance
The Ethiopian Air Force remains a key pillar of national defense and regional security, balancing traditional fighter jets, transport aircraft, and advanced UAVs to adapt to modern operational needs. Ongoing reforms suggest Ethiopia aims to continue enhancing its aerial capabilities through technology, training, and strategic partnerships. �
ENA English
If you want, I can provide a current list of known aircraft types in use by the Ethiopian Air Force or a timeline of major operations.