Ethiopian Air Force Turns 90

Ethiopian Air Force Turns 90: Big Celebrations, Bigger Plans

Wow, what a week it was for aviation fans in Ethiopia. From January 23rd through the 27th, 2026, all eyes were on Bishoftu air base for the Ethiopian Air Force’s (ETAF) 90th anniversary. Jets thundering overhead, crowds packed in, and speeches from heavy hitters like Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Field Marshal Berhanu Jula—it had that real electric feel. They rolled out stories of reforms, shiny new equipment, and plans to ramp things up big time. More than a milestone bash, it came off like Ethiopia drawing a line in the sand for the neighborhood and beyond. I pulled together the buzz from reliable spots like FANAMC, ENA, and Borkena to break it down.

The Festivities Take Flight in Bishoftu

Bishoftu turned into the spot for five straight days of action. Families along the fences, pilots putting on shows, and that deep sense of pride hanging in the air. Things peaked on January 27th with a graduation for new pilots and tech specialists after three solid years of training. Berhanu Jula, head of the ENDF, stepped up and called the air force’s path an “upward trajectory.” He linked it right to better prep for current challenges, stressing skills, loyalty, and ops across different zones.

They went with “Symbol of Freedom and Unity” as the theme, which lands hard when you recall the ETAF’s roots. It kicked off in the 1930s under Haile Selassie, took hits from invaders, but rebuilt strong. After years of steady investment, this event felt like a high note. Abiy hit the airshow stage warning off outsiders—don’t push Ethiopia’s buttons. Doubling combat planes by 2030, eyeing next-level tech? He put it out there. Reports kept the tone upbeat, all about progress.

Spotlight on the New Gear

The hardware steals a lot of the chatter. Fresh intel points to six Russian Yak-130 trainers arriving, marked 2301 to 2306. These handle advanced training and light roles, setting up crews for the Su-27s and Su-30Ks in service. Talk swirls around possible Su-35 additions, strengthening their position locally.

Plus, the Kronshtadt Orion drone made waves as a key pickup. It handles scouting and targeted work without crew risk. Air force head Lt. Gen. Yilma Merdasa spotlighted base upgrades and ties driving this forward. Focus lands on smart tools to protect troops, upgraded training setups—practical steps for a tough region.

Leaders Lay Out the Roadmap

Berhanu owned the 27th with praise for wide-ranging changes lifting the force. Those graduates represent tomorrow’s core strength. Merdasa pushed a mix of talent and dedication, prepped for varied scenarios.

Abiy’s airshow words packed punch: double the aircraft count, reach fifth-gen standards by 2030. Think advanced systems, seamless teamwork. From older setups, it’s a bold shift, learned from past tests like Tigray. Saves resources, cuts risks. Online shares from outfits like Addis Standard highlighted the steady approach, with solid backing in play.

Roots That Run Deep

History adds weight here. Started small in 1935, trained abroad, rebuilt after early blows. Post-war brought Western help—F-86s, trainers. Shifted Soviet in the 70s; peaked battling neighbors. Tough losses in the late 90s, then restocks. Now, full modern push. Gatherings like this stir that enduring spirit.

Regional Angle and Watchers

Moves like these echo around. Neighbors keep tabs; water projects stir old frictions. Fleet growth changes dynamics. Next-gen edges ahead locally. Partners line up for gains; older links linger. Stays framed positive in press, aiding stability efforts.

Honest Look at the Roadblocks

Cash flow’s tight after hard years—priorities compete. Top training demands investment; upkeep adds layers. Global shifts complicate supply. Still, base builds and programs show commitment. Right steps could set a high bar continent-wide.

Everyday Ties for Folks at Home

Beyond headlines, it guards communities, supports growth, creates opportunities. Local events lift moods; young talent sees paths. Shares of the shows spread wide, blending heritage with hope.

Final Skyward Note

The week’s spotlight cemented the ETAF’s role—90 years of service, set for more. New arrivals, clear visions from leaders: it’s about strength with smarts. In changing times, feels like solid footing.

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