PM Abiy: Ethiopian Air Force Stronger Than Ever, Bound for Fifth-Generation by 2030

Addis Ababa, January 24, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the Ethiopian Air Force (EAF), which has developed a formidable fourth-generation combat capability, will transition to fifth-generation capacity by 2030.

He added that the expansion will also see the combat aircraft fleet double in size, strengthening the country’s aerial defense with enhanced sophistication and resilience.

Speaking at the celebration marking the 90th Anniversary of the Ethiopian Air Force on Friday, the Prime Minister underscored the force’s historic and contemporary role in safeguarding Ethiopia and contributing to peace and security across Africa.

He noted, however, that despite its long history and expanding responsibilities, the Air Force had not consistently received adequate and sustained capacity-building support.

Over the past five years, significant progress has nonetheless been achieved through targeted investments in advanced technologies, human capital development, and modern air-defense systems capable of shielding Ethiopia from aerial threats.

“At present, the Government of Ethiopia has planned and identified partners to double the current air force capacity,” the Prime Minister revealed.

“Our objective is to achieve victory by minimizing human loss through advanced technology, precision strikes, and superior capability,” PM Abiy stressed.

Recalling the history of the Air Force, he highlighted the EAF’s pivotal role in defending African airspace during the colonial era.

The Prime Minister described the Ethiopian Air Force as one of Africa’s most respected institutions, shaped by the cumulative efforts of successive generations and governments, and noted that it now stands stronger than at any point in its 90-year history.

Honoring legendary figures of the Air Force, he paid tribute to renowned commanders and pilots whose courage and professionalism laid the foundation of the institution, while calling for greater emphasis on strengthening human capital.

“Advanced aircraft alone do not create a decisive air force,” he said. “Without skilled, disciplined, and patriotic professionals, machines cannot deliver victory.”

The Prime Minister also linked national security directly to economic performance, noting that Ethiopia’s recent 9.2 percent economic growth and the projected 10.3 percent growth for the current year can only be sustained through a strong and balanced security architecture.

Emphasizing the importance of economic strength, he added that diplomacy, politics, and military capability must advance in tandem, stating that only such balance can ensure lasting stability, respect, and strength for future generations.

He further underscored that Ethiopia remains open to friendship, cooperation, and shared growth, reaffirming the country’s commitment to working closely with partners on the basis of mutual respect and common interests.

At the same time, the Prime Minister emphasized that Ethiopia will firmly safeguard its sovereignty. “While the nation keeps its doors open to friends, it must also ensure that its doors are securely closed to those who threaten its unity, dignity, and national interests,” he said.

Ethiopia has learned from history and remains determined to prevent the recurrence of challenges posed by external and internal forces through strength, vigilance, and unity, he emphasized.

PM Abiy added that both friends and adversaries must clearly understand that Ethiopia today is far stronger, more capable, and more advanced than outdated perceptions suggest.

Ethiopia’s development trajectory is irreversible, he said, explaining that while challenges and obstacles may arise, they will serve to accelerate progress rather than impede it.