Ethiopian Air Force to Mark 90th Anniversary of Its Establishment

By Asho Elmi - Reporter

Ethiopia, 15 December 2026 — The Commander of the Ethiopian Air Force, Lieutenant General Yilma Merdassa, said the 90th anniversary of the Air Force will be celebrated in a manner befitting Ethiopia’s regional and international standing, showcasing its expanding capabilities and resources.

Speaking during a meeting with senior Air Force officers, Lt. Gen. Yilma stated that the anniversary celebrations will take place from 23 to 27 January 2026 and will feature a comprehensive programme of military, aerial display, and professional activities aimed at highlighting the Air Force’s long history and its central role in safeguarding national sovereignty.

He noted that final preparations are underway for what he described as a historic occasion, stressing that the Ethiopian Air Force has, over the past nine decades, stood as a symbol of modernity and national sovereignty. He added that the 90th anniversary should reflect this legacy as well as the country’s growing defence capabilities.

According to the Air Force commander, the anniversary provides an important opportunity to demonstrate the advanced levels of technological development and operational readiness the force has achieved, describing it as a clear expression of state power and Ethiopia’s ability to defend its national interests.

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Lt. Gen. Yilma emphasized that the celebrations go beyond commemorating history, carrying a broader message to the international community about the stature of the Ethiopian Air Force, while also contributing to knowledge transfer, expertise sharing, and technological advancement, and reinforcing public confidence in the military institution.

He added that one of the key objectives of the anniversary events is to highlight the Air Force’s high state of readiness and its deterrent role against any attempts to undermine Ethiopia’s sovereignty or national security.

The commander also noted that the 90th anniversary comes at a time when the military institution is undergoing comprehensive reforms and continuous modernization of equipment and armaments, giving the occasion added significance. He concluded that the Ethiopian Air Force is today more prepared and disciplined than ever to mark this historic milestone with a high level of professionalism and efficiency.

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