The Egyptian Air Force (EAF), known in Arabic as Al-Quwwat al-Jawwiya al-Misriya, is the aviation branch of the Egyptian Armed Forces. Established in 1932, it is one of the oldest air forces in the Middle East and Africa, boasting a rich history intertwined with regional conflicts and modernization efforts.
Initially relying on British aircraft, the EAF has diversified its fleet over the decades, sourcing equipment from various countries including the Soviet Union/Russia, France, the United States, and China. This diversification reflects Egypt’s complex geopolitical relationships and its commitment to maintaining a strong and adaptable air power.
The EAF played a significant role in the Arab-Israeli conflicts. During the 1967 Six-Day War, it suffered heavy losses, significantly impacting Egypt’s military capabilities. However, the EAF was instrumental in the opening stages of the 1973 Yom Kippur War, launching Operation Badr, a surprise attack on Israeli airfields in the Sinai Peninsula. This operation, while not achieving all of its initial objectives, demonstrated the EAF’s improved training and tactical capabilities.
Following the Camp David Accords and the subsequent peace treaty with Israel in 1979, the EAF forged closer ties with the United States, becoming a major recipient of American military aid. This relationship allowed for the acquisition of advanced US-made aircraft, including F-16 Fighting Falcons, which now form the backbone of the EAF’s fighter fleet. The EAF also operates French-built Dassault Rafale fighter jets, Russian MiG-29M/M2s, and Chinese-made Chengdu J-7s, among other aircraft.
Beyond fighter aircraft, the EAF maintains a diverse inventory including transport aircraft like the C-130 Hercules and Airbus A400M, attack helicopters such as the AH-64 Apache, and various training aircraft. It also operates a number of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for reconnaissance and surveillance purposes. The EAF is organized into multiple wings and squadrons, strategically located across Egypt to provide comprehensive air defense and support for ground operations.
The EAF’s current priorities include maintaining air superiority, protecting strategic assets, and supporting counter-terrorism efforts. It has been actively involved in operations against Islamist militants in the Sinai Peninsula and has participated in international coalition efforts. The EAF continues to modernize its fleet through acquisitions of new aircraft and upgrades to existing platforms, reflecting Egypt’s commitment to maintaining a powerful and technologically advanced air force capable of defending its national interests and contributing to regional stability.