Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated that the Ethiopian Air Force is a long-established and resilient institution that is making a significant contribution to peace and stability not only within Ethiopia but also globally, particularly across many African countries.

The Prime Minister made these remarks today while officially inaugurating an international air show organized to mark the 90th anniversary of the establishment of the Ethiopian Air Force.  

The air show, which also featured participation from the United Arab Emirates Air Force, was attended by senior government officials, invited diplomats, and other distinguished guests.

The anniversary is being commemorated from January 23 to 27, 2026, highlighting the Air Force’s long history, sacrifices, and transformative achievements over nine decades.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Abiy noted that the Ethiopian Air Force has evolved into a stronger institution than ever before, equipped with advanced technology and a highly organized professional workforce. He expressed deep appreciation to former Air Force leaders for their contributions to this transformation.

He also announced that concrete preparations are underway to double the current capacity of the Air Force within the next five years, and that implementation has already begun.

“Our Air Force is a great institution that, throughout its long history and at many critical moments, has been a source of national pride and a shield for the country, and has been able to defeat the forces that attempted to attack Ethiopia," he noted.

Beyond Ethiopia, the Prime Minister recalled the Air Force’s historic role in Africa, particularly during the colonial era, citing its contribution to defending Tanzania’s airspace against Portuguese aggression.

He emphasized that Ethiopia’s Air Force has earned a distinguished reputation by contributing to peacekeeping missions across many African countries, alongside special forces and ground troops, making it a vital pillar of continental peace.

Prime Minister Abiy further stated that Ethiopia—known for opening its doors and working cooperatively with friendly nations—has built the capacity necessary to deter and defeat forces seeking to undermine its national interests.

He stressed that there will be no rest in safeguarding this capability. Ethiopia, he said, is not a nation standing still in the past, but one that is working tirelessly, with strength and determination, to secure its future.