Africa’s 10 least helicopter-powered countries in 2025

Some African countries have small helicopter fleets due to budget constraints and national priorities, affecting emergency response, security, and medical evacuations. Helicopters provide access to remote areas and support disaster relief, military operations, and border security.

A shortage limits troop deployment, reconnaissance, and air support, increasing exposure to smuggling and insurgencies. In emergencies, helicopters enable faster response to disasters and public health crises. Without them, governments rely on slower ground transport, delaying aid and worsening the impact on affected communities.

Read also: 10 countries in Africa with the most helicopter fleets in 2025

According to Global FirePower, here are Africa’s 10 least helicopter-powered countries in 2025

1. Somalia

Somalia has no recorded helicopter fleet in 2025. The country continues to face security challenges, and its defence infrastructure remains limited. The lack of helicopters impacts emergency response and military operations.

2. Liberia

Liberia also has no helicopters in its fleet. The country prioritises other areas of development, and its military and emergency response units rely on alternative means of transportation.

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3. Central African Republic

The Central African Republic does not have any helicopters. Ongoing instability and economic challenges contribute to the absence of an aerial fleet, affecting mobility and response capacity.

4. Sierra Leone – 1

Sierra Leone has one helicopter in service. The limited fleet restricts rapid response to emergencies, including medical evacuations and disaster relief.

5. Mauritania – 4

Mauritania operates four helicopters. These are primarily used for security operations and surveillance, but the small fleet limits the country’s operational capacity.

Read also: Top 10 African countries with largest military aircraft fleets

6. Madagascar – 5

Madagascar has five helicopters in its fleet. As an island nation, helicopters could be crucial for disaster response and medical evacuations, but limited resources affect fleet expansion.

7. Benin – 5

Benin has five helicopters available for use. While the country continues to invest in security and emergency response, the small fleet limits its ability to address large-scale incidents.

8. Republic of Congo – 7

The Republic of Congo operates seven helicopters. These aircraft support military and civilian operations, but the country faces challenges in expanding and maintaining its fleet.

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9. Namibia – 7

Namibia also has seven helicopters. The country’s vast landscapes require aerial support for surveillance and rescue missions, but the limited fleet affects efficiency.

10. Mozambique – 8

Mozambique has eight helicopters in service. The country’s need for helicopters has increased due to security concerns and natural disasters, but resources for expansion remain limited.