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Royal Jordanian Air Force

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Royal Jordanian Air Force
  • سلاح الجو الملكي الأردني
  • Silāḥ ul-Jawu al-Malakī 'al-Urdunī
Royal Jordanian Air Force emblem
Founded25 September 1955; 69 years ago (1955-09-25)
Country Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
TypeAir Force
RoleAerial warfare, Air defense, and Counter-insurgency
Size
  • 14,000 active personnel[1]
  • 266 aircraft
[2]
Part ofJordanian Armed Forces
Air Staff OfficesTabarbour, Amman
National ColorsRed, white, black, green
       
Anniversaries25 September (Founding Day)
Engagements
WebsiteOfficial website
Commanders
Commander-in-Chief King Abdullah II
Prime Minister of Jordan Jafar Hassan
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Lieutenant General Yousef Huneiti
Commander of the Royal Jordanian Air Force Major General Mohammad Hyasat[3]
Insignia
Roundel
Fin flash
Ensign
Aircraft flown
AttackAir Tractor AT-802
Electronic
warfare		Cessna 208 (ISR variant), PZL M28 Skytruck (Electronic warfare variant)
FighterF-16 Fighting Falcon
HelicopterMil Mi-26, Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk
Attack helicopterBell AH-1 Cobra, Boeing AH-6
ReconnaissanceCessna 208 (ISR variant)
TrainerGrob G 120TP, Pilatus PC-21, Bell 505
TransportC-130 Hercules, Airbus C-295

The Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF; Arabic: سلاح الجو الملكي الأردني, Silāḥ al-Jaww al-Malakī al-ʾUrdunī) is the aerial warfare branch of the Jordanian Armed Forces. Founded in 1955,[4] the RJAF serves as the primary air defense organization in Jordan, with the mission of defending the nation’s airspace, providing ground support, and contributing to the broader national security strategy.[5] Its role has expanded over the years from purely defensive operations to include Peacekeeping,[6] humanitarian support,[7] and active participation in regional coalitions.[8]

Headquartered in Amman, the RJAF operates a variety of advanced fighter aircraft, helicopters, and transport aircraft, with bases strategically positioned across Jordan.[9] Since its establishment, the RJAF has undergone significant modernization efforts, enhancing its capabilities to address evolving security challenges.[10] The force also collaborates closely with international allies, including the United States[11] and several NATO countries, engaging in joint training exercises and defense partnerships.[12]

The RJAF has earned a respected position within the Middle East due to its skilled personnel and its contributions to stability and security in the region.[13] With a focus on training and technological advancement, the RJAF continues to enhance its readiness and operational capabilities, representing a critical component of Jordan’s defense infrastructure.[14]

Mission

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To Protect and Defend the Sovereignty and Integrity of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

The Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) is dedicated to safeguarding Jordan’s airspace and supporting both national defense and humanitarian missions. Over the years, the RJAF has broadened its role to include regional assistance, humanitarian airlifts, and international peacekeeping efforts. The following outlines the key components of the RJAF’s mission, extended responsibilities, and recent involvement in humanitarian operations.

Core Mission Components

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  • Precision Engagement
The RJAF prioritizes selective application of force, emphasizing accuracy and control to limit collateral damage. This precision-based approach allows the RJAF to respond to diverse regional challenges with targeted, effective military actions, often in cooperation with coalition forces.[15]
  • Information Superiority
Maintaining information superiority is critical for RJAF’s operational success. The RJAF integrates real-time intelligence and surveillance to provide joint force commanders with actionable insights, enabling informed strategic and tactical decisions.[16]
  • Agile Combat Support
Agility in logistics and combat support enables the RJAF to deploy and sustain operations effectively, whether from fixed bases or rapid-response units. The RJAF’s support structure ensures readiness for defensive actions and expeditions alike, reinforcing Jordan’s national defense and extending to international missions.[17]
  • Core Values
The RJAF operates with a commitment to integrity, service, and excellence, underpinning its core competencies and distinct capabilities.

Secondary and Additional Tasks

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The RJAF’s mission includes essential support roles beyond its core defense responsibilities. These tasks encompass:

  • Supporting Land Forces: Providing air support in defense operations and assisting in any armed conflict with external powers.
  • Internal Security: Assisting security forces in maintaining internal security, counter-smuggling efforts, and border surveillance.
  • Additional Tasks
    • Air lift operations.
    • Search and rescue.
    • Medical evacuation.
    • Relief operations.
    • Evacuation of citizens from areas of conflict.

Humanitarian and Peacekeeping Missions

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The RJAF has played an increasingly active role in peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance. Despite limited resources, Jordan has committed its air force to peacekeeping operations and humanitarian missions across various continents. In 1994, the RJAF began participating in United Nations airlift operations, supporting Jordanian troops on peacekeeping assignments. As of recent years, the RJAF has logged over 200 flight hours in peacekeeping support worldwide.[18]

History

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Early Foundations and British Influence (1931–1955)

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A de Havilland Vampire FB.6 illustrating the markings of the Royal Jordanian Air Force

Jordan gained independence in 1946, but its first air bases were established as early as 1931 by the Royal Air Force to protect British interests and maintain stability in the region.[19] Initially, Jordan’s air defense was limited to observation and reconnaissance, with British personnel assisting in the development of this early force. By 1948, Jordan began forming a small air unit known as the Arab Legion Air Force (ALAF), with assistance from the RAF in terms of training and equipment. The ALAF's primary fighter aircraft was the de Havilland Vampire, a British jet fighter, and a Vickers VC.1 Viking was used as a VIP transport for the King of Jordan.[20]

In 1955, King Hussein recognized the need for a more autonomous and capable air force as part of Jordan’s modernization goals, officially establishing the RJAF on 25 September 1955.[21] The same year, Jordan received its first modern training aircraft from the United Kingdom, solidifying early efforts in pilot training and technical skills. By 1958, British forces had fully departed Jordan, and the RJAF assumed complete control over the nation’s airfields, marking a shift toward self-reliance.[22]

The Six-Day War and Aftermath (1960s)

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In the early 1960s, the RJAF expanded its capabilities with the acquisition of Hawker Hunter aircraft for air defense, strengthening Jordan's combat abilities as regional tensions mounted.[23] In December 1964, the RJAF engaged in a notable air combat incident over the West Bank, where four Israeli Air Force Mirages encountered RJAF Hunters, resulting in damage to one Mirage with no Jordanian losses.[24] The RJAF’s role during the Six-Day War in 1967 was met with severe challenges as Israeli air raids destroyed most of Jordan’s aircraft on the ground, resulting in the near-total loss of the fleet.[25][26] Despite these losses, the RJAF quickly began efforts to rebuild, receiving assistance from the United Kingdom, which provided additional Hunters and training support.[27]

Modernization and Regional Alignments (1970s)

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Hunter F.58 of the Royal Jordanian Air Force

After the heavy losses of the 1967 war, the RJAF undertook substantial modernization efforts. In the early 1970s, it acquired Lockheed F-104 Starfighters from the United States, although these were later deemed unsuitable for Jordan’s defense needs due to their high operational costs and maintenance complexity. By 1977, these were transferred to the Pakistan Air Force, leaving the RJAF to seek alternative solutions.[28]

During this period, the RJAF also procured Northrop F-5 Tiger jets from Iran, as part of Jordan’s strategic alliance with Iran during the Shah’s reign. These aircraft became vital to Jordan’s defense strategy, enabling a higher degree of regional operational capacity.[29] Additionally, the RJAF began using Cessna T-37 Tweets for advanced training, which helped establish a domestic pipeline for skilled pilots and technical staff.[30] In 1975, the RJAF retired its fleet of Hawker Hunters, transferring them to the Omani Air Force after unsuccessful attempts to sell the aircraft elsewhere.[31]

The Iran-Iraq War and Continued Upgrades (1980s)

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Following the Egypt–Israel peace treaty in 1979, the RJAF embarked on further modernization efforts supported by financial aid from several Arab states. The RJAF selected the Dassault Mirage F1 over the General Dynamics F-16/79 to serve as its frontline fighter due to its advanced avionics and agility in air-to-air combat.[32]

During the Iran-Iraq War, Jordan remained a regional ally of Iraq, providing training support for Iraqi pilots. The RJAF participated in joint training exercises, allowing Jordanian and Iraqi pilots to operate side-by-side in combat simulations. However, there is no confirmed evidence that RJAF personnel directly engaged in combat missions.[33] During this period, the RJAF also acquired Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft, which became instrumental in supporting Jordan’s international peacekeeping missions, as well as humanitarian efforts throughout the Middle East and North Africa.[34]

The Gulf War and Resource Constraints (1990s)

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Jordan’s complex political relationship with Iraq during the Gulf War left the RJAF in a difficult position, as Jordan chose not to commit forces to combat. However, the aftermath of the war led to economic strains that impacted the RJAF, resulting in a shift towards modernization through upgrades rather than acquiring new aircraft.[35] In a bid to sustain operational readiness, the RJAF sold seven of its F-5E jets to Singapore, utilizing the proceeds to fund upgrades to its remaining fleet. This included the installation of the AN/APG-67 radar, advanced fire control systems, and upgraded weapons systems, which allowed the F-5s to maintain relevance in modern air combat despite lacking beyond-visual-range capabilities.[36]

By the late 1990s, the RJAF had established itself as a capable regional air force focused on maintaining a balance between operational readiness and cost-effectiveness. Continued support from international allies, including the United States and NATO members, played a significant role in helping Jordan sustain its air defense infrastructure amid limited resources.[37]

Modern era

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Jordanian F-16s

Following the Gulf War, the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) initiated a broad modernization program to address regional security challenges and enhance its strategic capabilities. As part of these efforts, Jordan acquired a range of transport, combat, and special operations aircraft.

In the early 1990s, Jordan procured two Airbus C-295 light transport aircraft to support logistics and tactical operations. The acquisition of several Antonov An-32 aircraft from Ukraine provided the RJAF with enhanced STOL capabilities, allowing rapid transport for the Royal Special Forces in remote or challenging environments.[38] However, the operational status of the An-32s has been uncertain in recent years, with the focus shifting to newer models.[39] In 1997, Jordan further enhanced its tactical airlift with the addition of a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, critical for both domestic operations and regional humanitarian missions.[40]

To improve heavy lift and logistics capabilities, the RJAF acquired two Ilyushin Il-76MF freighters from Russia in 2006. These aircraft have been instrumental in supporting Jordan’s extensive peacekeeping missions and other international deployments.[41] Additionally, the RJAF began to explore multi-role gunships, converting two CASA/IPTN CN-235 aircraft into AC235 gunships in collaboration with the King Abdullah II Design and Development Bureau (KADDB) and U.S. defense company Orbital ATK. These gunships, equipped with advanced sensors and precision weaponry, are intended to support special operations and counter-insurgency efforts.[42] The RJAF later explored the gunship version of the Airbus C-295 to further expand its close air support capabilities.[43]

The Jordanian Special Operations Aviation Brigade, created to support high-priority missions, has operated Sikorsky UH-60L Black Hawk and MD Helicopters MD-530F helicopters for special operations and border security missions. In the late 1990s, the RJAF received two squadrons of AH-1F Cobra gunships from the U.S. Army, later transferring some to Pakistan as Jordan transitioned to new platforms, including the Boeing AH-6 light attack helicopter.[44]

Under the U.S. Military Assistance Program, Jordan received 18 surplus Bell UH-1H helicopters in 1994, followed by an additional 18 in 1996. The UH-1H helicopters were subsequently transferred to the Iraqi Air Force as Jordan moved to acquire newer platforms.[45] In recent years, Jordan acquired eight UH-60A Black Hawks through a U.S. no-cost lease, and a further eight UH-60M Black Hawks were delivered in 2017 as part of a U.S. grant valued at $200 million.[46]

The RJAF maintains close military cooperation with neighboring air forces, providing training for Bahraini pilots and logistical support to the Iraqi Air Force. The RJAF also plays a critical role in joint operations with the United States Air Force, conducting routine exercises to enhance regional interoperability and readiness.[47] The current commander of the Royal Jordanian Air Force is Brigadier General Mohammad Hyasat.[48]

Operations in Syria and Regional Conflicts (2014–Present)

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Jordanian F-5 Tiger II aircraft

The RJAF has been active in regional conflicts, notably in the fight against ISIS and other terrorist organizations in Syria. On 16 April 2014, Jordanian fighter jets conducted airstrikes on vehicles attempting to cross from Syria into Jordan.[49] The following September, the RJAF joined U.S.-led Operation Inherent Resolve airstrikes against ISIS, marking Jordan's commitment to regional security.[50]

In December 2014, a Jordanian F-16 crashed near Raqqa, Syria, resulting in the capture of the pilot, Flight Lieutenant Moaz Youssef al-Kasasbeh, by ISIS militants. Despite diplomatic efforts, al-Kasasbeh was executed in early 2015, leading to a renewed commitment by Jordan against ISIS.[51] On 5 February 2015, the RJAF launched intensified strikes against ISIS positions in Syria, deploying 20 F-16s in operations supported by U.S.-supplied munitions, including JDAM precision bombs.[52]

In 2015, Israel transferred 16 Bell AH-1E/F Cobras to Jordan, further bolstering the RJAF’s counterinsurgency capabilities along Jordan’s borders.[53] While active in Syria, in late 2015 the RJAF shifted some resources to support Saudi-led operations against Houthi rebels in Yemen, although Jordan maintained a limited presence in Syria.[54]

In late January 2024, the Royal Jordanian Air Force was actively involved in a coordinated response following the Tower 22 drone attack on a U.S. base in northeastern Jordan. This attack, attributed to an Iranian-supplied drone launched by Iranian-backed militias, resulted in the deaths of three American soldiers and injured over 40 others. The drone struck Tower 22, a logistics and support base near the Syrian border, underscoring the increasing threats posed by regional militias.[55]

On February 3, 2024, as part of the U.S.-led retaliation, RJAF F-16s joined American B-1B bombers and other aircraft in a series of airstrikes targeting strategic militia positions across Syria and Iraq. The operation, involving over 125 precision-guided munitions, was aimed at weakening the operational capabilities of the militias responsible for the Tower 22 attack. The RJAF provided air support along the Syria-Iraq border, focusing on surveillance and striking secondary targets to limit militia movements and escape routes.[56][57]

In Syria, the strikes targeted several high-value facilities in Deir ez-Zor and al-Bukamal, including weapons depots, intelligence centers, and militia command posts affiliated with pro-Iranian forces. These locations served as vital hubs for arms and personnel, enabling cross-border operations by militias. The RJAF's involvement marked its expanded role in regional counterterrorism and security efforts, signaling its commitment to supporting coalition forces against Iranian influence.[58]

RJAF’s role in these strikes highlighted Jordan’s expanding security alliance with the United States, reflecting a proactive stance on countering threats from Iranian-aligned militias. Analysts have noted that this operation demonstrates Jordan’s strategic importance in regional security, as well as the RJAF’s growing capacity to participate in complex, multilateral defense operations.[59]

Humanitarian Airlifts to Gaza (2023-Present)

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In response to the humanitarian crisis during the war in Gaza, the RJAF coordinated critical aid missions to deliver supplies to affected areas. As part of Jordan’s commitment to supporting Palestinian civilians, the RJAF carried out multiple air drops of food, medical supplies, and essential relief items to Gaza, under challenging conditions and amidst ongoing regional conflict.[60] This mission underscored Jordan’s role in regional humanitarian assistance, with the RJAF working closely with international agencies to ensure safe passage and distribution of aid.[61]

Through these operations, the RJAF continues to fulfill its dual mission of national defense and regional support, showcasing its versatility and commitment to both security and humanitarian principles.

Organization

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The Royal Jordanian Air Force has a strength of 14,000 active personnel.[1] It contains six major airbases in addition to nineteen air squadrons, fourteen I-Hawk Batteries, and two training schools (a fighter aviation training school and a school of air combat). The Royal Jordanian Air Force Headquarters is at King Abdullah I Airbase in Amman.

Base Squadron Aircraft
King Abdullah I Air Base[62]
Amman Civil Airport
Marka, Amman, Jordan
 3 Squadron C-130H, M28, C-145
7 Squadron AS332M-1, UH-60A, EC-635T1
Royal Squadron UH-60M VIP, AW-139
Air Ambulance Center AW-139
King Abdullah II Air Base[62]
Al Ghabawi, Jordan 		8 Squadron UH-60M
9 Squadron S-100,
10 Squadron AH-1F SES
12 Squadron AH-1F
14 Squadron UH-60A
15 Squadron Ce208B-ISR
25 Squadron AT-802U, AT-802i Block 1B
28 Squadron MD530FF
30 Squadron UH-60L
Zarqa Air Base[62]
Sahel Nassab, Zarqa, Jordan 		9 Squadron CH4B (withdrawn from use)
26 Squadron Mi-26T2
King Hussein Air Base[62]
Mafraq, Jordan 		4 Squadron G120TP
5 Squadron R44-II
11 Squadron PC-21
Flight Instructor School G120TP
Muwaffaq Salti Air Base[62]
Azraq, Zarqa, Jordan 		1 Squadron F-16AM/BM
2 Squadron (OCU) F-16AM/BM
6 Squadron F-16AM/BM
Prince Hassan Air Base[62] 17 Squadron Hawk Mk 63 (withdrawn from use)
Rweished Air Base[62] 10/12 Squadron (det.) AH-1F
15 Squadron (det.) Cessna 208B-ISR

Squadrons

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  • No. 1 Squadron RJAF – the Squadron was formed in 1958 with the Hawker Hunter and later equipped with F5s, the Mirage F1, and now the General Dynamics/Lockheed F-16.[62] It has been based in Amman, Mafraq and now Azraq, with short periods at H5, and Habbaniya (Iraq).[63]
  • No. 2 Squadron RJAF – was first formed in 1958 with de Havilland Vampires then with Hunters and later in 1974 with F5As and Bs as an advanced training squadron at King Hussein Air Base, Mafraq. It subsequently flew from Amman and Mafraq as a fighter squadron, then flew again from Mafraq, renamed in 1978 as the King Hussein Air College, with the CASA C-101 as the advanced jet trainer.[64] It is now at MSAB equipped with the F-16.[62]
  • No. 3 Squadron RJAF – was formed in 1959 and was a mixture of fixed-wing and helicopter until February 1973 when a helicopter squadron was formed. Its aircraft have included the de Havilland Dove; Heron; Ambassador; C47; C119; Brittan Norman Islander; CASA 212 and 235, with a helicopter flight of Westland Whirlwind; Widgeon; Scout and Alouette III. The Squadron belongs to the Air Lift Wing and is based at KAAB, Amman (Amman Civil Airport).[65] It is now equipped with the Lockheed C-130 Hercules and CASA 295.[62]

Royal Jordanian Air Defence

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  • Royal Jordanian air defense is part of the Royal Jordanian Air Force is equipped with Surface-to-Air missiles and Anti-Aircraft guns and Radar stations, as well as modern Electronic Warfare center and electronic countermeasure which is linked to command and control (C2) centers.
  • Jordan provided with an integrated, real-time air picture across multiple command centers and many remote sites to better protect the country's airspace. The system, known as Omnyx™, will combine sensor, voice and data communications to provide interoperability throughout the Royal Jordanian Air Force and other elements of Jordan's armed forces. With input from radars and other data links, the system will assist in detecting incoming air traffic and also provide the capabilities needed for airspace management, air sovereignty and air defense missions.[66]
  • RJAF C2 and EW Capability
    • Omnyx™ System enabling Jordanian Air Force to track and identify aircraft, evaluate any threats, initiate or monitor airborne engagements and enhance situational awareness of Jordanian airspace at all times.[66][67]
    • Jordan have a C4ISR subsystem capable of serving multiple internal services and agencies within Jordan and An Air Defense subsystem capable of early warning of air attack and real-time Command and Control (C2) of national air defense forces.[68][69][70][71]
    • RADIANT C4I National EW network, connecting regional control centers, ground radars and AD assets.
    • Jordan has the ability to detect cruise missiles, aircraft and unmanned drones at long distances through the project linking five U.S. 3D radars (1 FPS-117, 4 TPS-77), QAIA Radar and Gap-filler radars with ADSI (Air Defence System Integrator),[72] Airbases and all Fire Units to build air defence umbrella (IADS).
  • Air Surveillance Radars
    • 1 AN/FPS-117 3D Radar [73]
    • 4 AN/TPS-77 3D Radar
    • 5 AN/TPS-63 Tactical 2D Radar
    • 5 Marconi S711 Radar (Upgraded by AMS UK in 2005)
    • Gap-filler & Border Surveillance radars
  • Medium & Long Range Air Defence
    • 24 MIM-23B Phase III I-Hawk[74] (upgraded in 2016)[citation needed]
      • In the period from 2004 to 2012 the components of 8 Hawk Phase III batteries were acquired gradually and some old Hawk batteries were modernized to Phase III,[75] Jordan received more than 400 MEI-23E missiles in 2014 and 2016.[citation needed]

Equipment

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Current inventory

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An F-16 flying an air refueling mission
Jordanian Bell AH-1 Cobra
A C-130 Hercules fly over at the 2004 RIAT
Aircraft Origin Type Variant In service Notes
Combat aircraft
F-16 Fighting Falcon United States multirole F-16A Block 20 MLU 43[76] Backbone of RJAF; upgraded with MLU[77] for improved avionics, radar, and compatibility with modern weaponry.[78] Some equipped with Glass V Paint. [79]
F-16B Block 20 MLU 18[76] Dual-seat variant, also upgraded to MLU standard;[80] used for both operational missions and training. Some equipped with Glass V Paint. [81]
F-16 Block 70/72 0 (12 on order)[82] Pending delivery by 2027;[83] will feature advanced AESA radar and upgraded avionics.[84]
Special Mission
Cessna 208 United States ISR / ELINT 4[76]
Air Tractor AT-802 United States ISR 6[76]
Air Tractor AT-802 United States water bomber AT-802F 4[85] Equipped for firefighting capabilities.
Transport
C-130 Hercules United States tactical airlifter C-130E/H 7[76] Used extensively for transport and logistics
PZL M28 Skytruck Poland utility / transport 2[76] One configured for electronic warfare
Cessna 208 United States light transport 2[76] Being upgraded to the ISR variant[86]
CASA C-295 Spain transport 1[76]
Ilyushin Il-76 Russia tactical airlifter 1[76]
Helicopters
Bell AH-1 United States attack AH-1E/F 43[76] Primary attack helicopter
Boeing AH-6 United States light attack AH-6I 0[76] 24 on order[76]
Bell UH-1 United States utility UH-1H 36[76] Multi-role utility helicopter
Sikorsky UH-60 United States SAR / COIN UH-60L/M/70i 31[76] Used for search and rescue operations
Eurocopter EC635 France light utility 7[76] Utility missions, medical evacuation
Eurocopter AS332 France utility / transport 10[76] Utility and heavy-lift operations
Mil Mi-26 Russia heavy lift Mi-26T2 4[76] Capable of transporting heavy loads
Trainer aircraft
Pilatus PC-21 Switzerland advanced trainer 12[76] Advanced trainer for fighter pilots
Grob G 120TP Germany basic trainer 12[76] 1 crashed in February 2024.[87]
T67 Firefly United Kingdom basic trainer 2[76]
Bell 505 United States rotorcraft trainer 10[88] Completed delivery in July 2024[89]
Eurocopter AS350 France rotorcraft trainer 2[76]
Robinson R44 United States rotorcraft trainer 12[76]

Retired Aircraft

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Over the years, the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) has operated a variety of aircraft that have since been retired from active service. These aircraft contributed significantly to training, combat, transport, and reconnaissance missions, and reflect the development of the RJAF’s capabilities over time. Notable retired aircraft include:

Fighter and Combat Aircraft:

  • de Havilland Vampire – The Vampire was one of the RJAF’s earliest jet fighters, entering service in the 1950s and eventually retired to Jordanian museums, including the Royal Tank Museum and the RJAF Museum.[90]
  • F-104 Starfighter – This high-speed interceptor served during the Cold War and is notable for its unique design and supersonic capabilities.[91]
  • Dassault Mirage F1 – A multi-role fighter used extensively in defense roles, retired as the RJAF modernized its fleet with F-16s.[92]

Training and Liaison Aircraft:

  • Cessna T-37 – A primary trainer widely used to prepare RJAF pilots for advanced jet training.[93]
  • Bulldog 125 – Used for basic flight training and pilot development in the RJAF.
  • de Havilland Dove – Originally used for training and transport roles, with some preserved in Jordanian museums as part of the nation’s aviation heritage.[94]

Transport and Utility Aircraft:

  • Boeing 727 – A medium-range jetliner repurposed for transport within the RJAF.
  • Gulfstream III – Used for VIP transport and liaison roles.
  • An-12 Cub – A medium-lift transport aircraft utilized for logistical support and regional transport operations.[95]
  • CASA C-235 – A light tactical transport aircraft used in logistics and support missions within the RJAF.

Helicopters:

  • Alouette III – A light utility helicopter used for search and rescue, medical evacuation, and transport.
  • Aérospatiale Gazelle – Served in reconnaissance and light utility roles, notable for its agility and versatility.
  • Sikorsky S-76 – Utilized in transport and air support, with some preserved in Jordanian museums.[93]

Several of these retired aircraft, including the de Havilland Vampire, de Havilland Dove, and others, have been preserved in museums across Jordan, such as the Royal Tank Museum and the RJAF Museum, celebrating Jordan's aviation history and the RJAF’s heritage.[96]

Future Developments

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The Royal Jordanian Air Force has been on a dynamic journey of modernization, acquiring new aircraft, phasing out older models, and pushing forward with advanced upgrades to maintain an edge in the region. Here’s a timeline of RJAF’s recent strategic advancements and milestones:

On 24 July 2019, the RJAF Commander, Major General Yousef Huneiti, received a significant promotion to serve as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Jordanian Armed Forces, underscoring his valuable contributions to Jordan's military.[97] Brigadier General Zaid Al-Najrish was appointed as the new Commander of the RJAF, with a commitment to continue the path of professionalism established by his predecessor.

On 3 March 2020, news broke that the RJAF had shifted its plans from upgrading older F-16s to procuring the latest F-16 Block 70/72 models. The RJAF aimed to replace its aging fleet with these state-of-the-art fighters featuring advanced radar, enhanced avionics, and extended capabilities.[98]

In September 2020, the RJAF began working closely with the U.S. Air Force’s Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio on a study for the Block-70 operational upgrade program, further affirming Jordan’s commitment to cutting-edge aviation capabilities.[99]

On 28 July 2021, the RJAF unveiled its upgraded F-16 MLU (Mid-Life Upgrade) fighters, which have been enhanced to MLU levels 5 and 6.5. This upgrade is approximately equivalent to the capabilities of the F-16C/D Block 50/52 series, equipping the jets with advanced munitions like GBU bombs, JDAM kits, AAM, and ASM weapons, as well as targeting and reconnaissance pods. The Ministry of Defense showcased the RJAF pilots training on these upgraded aircraft.[100]

Following these upgrades, on 14 November 2021, it was announced that the latest F-16 MLU 6.5 fighters were painted with Glass V Paint, a radar-absorbent coating designed to enhance the aircraft’s stealth capabilities. This paint is part of Jordan's strategy to bolster the survivability of its F-16 fleet in a high-threat environment.[101]

On 3 February 2022, the United States Department of State authorized a potential Foreign Military Sale of up to 16 F-16 C/D Block 70 aircraft to Jordan, valued at approximately $4.21 billion. This includes a mix of 12 single-seat F-16Cs and four twin-seat F-16Ds, along with 21 F100 engines (with five spares) and additional systems and armament.[102][103]

As part of its long-term modernization strategy, in January 2023, the RJAF confirmed the phased retirement of older aircraft types while prioritizing the F-16 Block 70 deliveries expected to begin in late 2024. The Block 70, known for its AESA radar and advanced avionics, will bring a significant boost in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat capabilities.[104]

In March 2024, the RJAF unveiled its enhanced fleet readiness, stating that it had increased operational training hours in preparation for the arrival of the Block 70s. This focus on training aims to ensure a smooth transition as the advanced jets join the operational fleet, further strengthening Jordan’s air defense capabilities.[105]

The RJAF’s modernization continues into November 2024, with the first batch of F-16 Block 70s anticipated by year’s end. This acquisition will cement Jordan’s air superiority role in the region, equipping it with a versatile fighter capable of handling modern threats across a range of mission profiles.[106]

Personnel

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Commanders

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US General Martin E. Dempsey (left) with Major General Malek Al-Habashneh, the chief of the RJAF in 2013.

The Royal Jordanian Air Force is headed by the Commander. The chiefs of the RJAF are as follows:[107]

  1. 1956–1962 Major (Colonel) Ibrahim Osman
  2. 1962 Major Jereis Musharbash
  3. 1962 Major Sahal Hamzeh
  4. 1962–1970 Major (Major-General) Saleh El Kurdi
  5. 1971–1973 Brigadier Walid Sharafuddin
  6. 1973–1976 Brigadier Abboud Salem Hassan
  7. 1976–1980 Major (Major-General) Saleh El Kurdi
  8. 1980–1982 Brigadier (Major-General) Tayseer Zarour
  9. 1983–1993 Brigadier (Lieutenant-General) Ihsan Shurdom
  10. 1993–1994 Brigadier (Major-General) Awni Bilal
  11. 1994–1995 Brigadier (Major-General) Mohammed El Qudah
  12. 1995–1999 Brigadier (Major-General) Mohammed Khair Ababneh
  13. 1999–2002 Brigadier (Major-General) So'oud Nuseirat
  14. 2002–2004 Brigadier (Major-General) His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Hussein
  15. 2004–2006 Brigadier (Major-General) Hussein Al Biss
  16. 2006–2010 Brigadier (Major-General) Hussein Shodash
  17. 2010–2013 Brigadier (Major-General) Malek Al-Habashneh
  18. 2013–2016 Brigadier (Major-General) Mansour Al-Jbour
  19. 2016–2019 Brigadier (Major-General) Yousef Huneiti
  20. 2019–2021 Brigadier (Major-General) Zaid Naqrash
  21. 2021–Present Brigadier (Major-General) Mohammad Hyasat

Notable persons

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b International Institute for Strategic Studies (15 February 2023). The Military Balance 2023. London: Routledge. p. 335. ISBN 9781032508955.
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