The primary role of the BAF was to provide support and medevac services to the ground units of the Bophuthatswana army.

All surviving aircraft and helicopters were integrated into the South African Air Force after 27 April 1994.

An air component of the BDF was established on 19 March 1981 with the purchase of an Alouette III from the South African Police.

In 1982, the unit became known as Bophuthatswana Air Wing with the arrival of a 2 more Alouette IIIs and 2 Helio H-295s.

In 1987 it was the first air unit in South Africa to train and commission Black pilot officers.