A central pillar of the Black Lion Air Show & Aviation Expo 2026 was the commemoration of the 90th anniversary of the FDRE Air Force, celebrated against the backdrop of what was widely described as the most comprehensive reform and institution-building programme in the service’s history.
The anniversary observances highlighted how the Ethiopian Air Force has undergone profound transformation in line with Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed’s broader national vision of strengthening state institutions and building a resilient and inclusive nation. Senior leaders reflected on how deliberate institutional reform has repositioned the air force as a professional and technologically advanced force dedicated to Ethiopia’s constitutional order and sovereignty.
Extensive work undertaken over recent years has reshaped the Ethiopian Defence Forces, particularly the Air Force, into an institution that serves the nation impartially, free from political or ethnic bias and firmly anchored in national interests. Speakers noted that weak institutions had historically undermined political culture and democratic development and that addressing these institutional gaps was essential to long-term stability.
Reform efforts within the Air Force have therefore focused on restoring institutional strength, modernising capabilities and investing heavily in human capital. These reforms were presented as a cornerstone of national stability and a key enabler of Ethiopia’s ongoing democratic and economic development.
Key focus areas of the Air Force’s transformation were highlighted during the anniversary programme:
Technological Transition and Excellence:
The Air Force has significantly enhanced its operational capability through the introduction of modern military aircraft and unmanned systems including drones, strengthening Ethiopia’s ability to secure and control its airspace.
Manpower Development:
Investment in education, training and ethical leadership has produced a new generation of military officers and aviation professionals, improving combat readiness, professionalism and operational effectiveness.
Institutional Reform:
The Air Force has been reshaped into an inclusive national institution that reflects Ethiopia’s diversity while serving all citizens equally, reinforcing unity and national cohesion.
The strengthening of the Air Force was repeatedly linked to the broader task of nation-building. Leaders emphasised that a capable and professional air force is fundamental to safeguarding Ethiopia’s sovereignty, protecting national development efforts and ensuring that democratic processes can continue in a secure environment.
As Ethiopia advances across multiple sectors, the Air Force has emerged as a critical pillar of national security and a key contributor to the success of government-led reform initiatives. The achievements recorded over recent years were widely acknowledged as having positioned the Ethiopian Air Force among Africa’s most modern and capable air arms.
The 90th anniversary celebrations concluded with a renewed commitment to building an even stronger air force in support of a prosperous Ethiopia. The progress demonstrated during the Black Lion Air Show & Aviation Expo 2026 stood as a powerful symbol of national pride, sovereignty and the shared ambition to realise the vision of a holistically prosperous Ethiopia.
