Sierra Leone Defence Force Air Force

The Sierra Leone Air Force is the air force of Sierra Leone.

History
In 1973 the air force was established with Swedish help in the form of two Saab-MFI 15 two seat trainers. Saab also supplied two model 300 (269C) light helicopters for additional training with Ghanaian help, plus another was acquired as a presidential transport but was replaced in 1976 by a MBB Bo 105. In 1978 both the helicopters and light trainers were sold and the air arm disappeared; the Bo 105 was transferred to the civil register in 1985. In 1984 two Aérospatiale SA 355F Ecureuil 2 helicopters entered service with the ministry of defence. Five mercenary operated Mil Mi-24V and two Mil Mi-8 helicopters entered service from 1995.

In 1999 the it was reported that the RSL Armed Forces had five Mil Mi-24V's and two MiG-17's.

The Republic of Sierra Leone Air Force was merged with the other services to form the RSL Armed Forces from 2002. Sierra Leone has a very small air component with a limited offensive capability. The status of its equipment is unknown, but the aircraft are not operable.

Current inventory
Retired inventory: Saab MFI 15, Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17, MBB Bo 105, Mil Mi-24V, Model 300 (269C)