Zambian Air Force

Zambia Air Force
Zambia Air Force roundel
Founded1964; 60 years ago (1964)
Country Zambia
TypeAir force
RoleAerial warfare
Part ofZambia Defence Force
HeadquartersLusaka
Motto(s)"Defend and Support"
Commanders
Current
commander
Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni
Notable
commanders
Lieutenant General Ronnie Shikapwasha
Insignia
Fin flash
Aircraft flown
FighterHongdu L-15, Shenyang J-6
HelicopterMil Mi-17, Bell 205, Bell 206
TrainerAermacchi SF.260, Hongdu K-8, Hongdu L-15, FT-6, Aermacchi MB-326
TransportHarbin Y-12, Xian MA60, Alenia C-27J Spartan


The Zambia Air Force (ZAF) is the air force of Zambia and the air operations element of the Zambian Defence Force. Following the creation of the Republic of Zambia in 1964, the former Northern Rhodesia Air Force was renamed as the Zambia Air Force.

The primary missions of the Air Force are to defend Zambia's borders and protect its airspace. In addition, it provides various forms of air support to other government departments. It also flies reconnaissance, trooping and transport missions for the police and airlifts medical supplies and personnel to inaccessible areas. Finally, the organisation provides emergency transport whenever needed.[citation needed]