As a result of the war over the Ogaden region between Ethiopia and Somalia and tensions with neighboring Uganda, the Kenya Air Force ordered 10 F-5Es and 2 F-5Fs in 1976.

Deliveries took place in 1978 and give Kenya's air force an interceptor capability for the first time in its history.

In 2016 8 Bell Huey II helicopters were approved to be delivered to Kenya Air Force as part of US security cooperation program in sub-Saharan Africa.

Meanwhile, the KAF also received 9 AS550C3 helicopters that will be used for security operations as well as combat search and rescue, casualty and medical evacuation.

By October 2018 photographs had emerged showing the AS550 Fennecs fitted with weapon pylons and unguided rocket pods.

Also early 2017 Kenya signed contract for 3 C 27j & 3 AW 139 to be delivered this year[12] The United Arab Emirates' Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) signed an agreement in 2019 with the Kenya Air Force to provide maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services for its aircraft.

The F5 fighter jet developed mechanical problems and crashed in Al Shabab held territory, while the wreckage was found the pilot remained unaccounted for despite him managing to eject from the aircraft.

The unit also maintains a Forward Operating Base at Wajir Airport in North Eastern Kenya.