[10] The force also collaborates closely with international allies, including the United States[11] and several NATO countries, engaging in joint training exercises and defense partnerships.

[13] With a focus on training and technological advancement, the RJAF continues to enhance its readiness and operational capabilities, representing a critical component of Jordan’s defense infrastructure.

[22] In the early 1960s, the RJAF expanded its capabilities with the acquisition of Hawker Hunter aircraft for air defense, strengthening Jordan's combat abilities as regional tensions mounted.

[24] The RJAF’s role during the Six-Day War in 1967 was met with severe challenges as Israeli air raids destroyed most of Jordan’s aircraft on the ground, resulting in the near-total loss of the fleet.

In the early 1970s, it acquired Lockheed F-104 Starfighters from the United States, although these were later deemed unsuitable for Jordan’s defense needs due to their high operational costs and maintenance complexity.

[33] During this period, the RJAF also acquired Lockheed C-130 Hercules aircraft, which became instrumental in supporting Jordan’s international peacekeeping missions, as well as humanitarian efforts throughout the Middle East and North Africa.

Continued support from international allies, including the United States and NATO members, played a significant role in helping Jordan sustain its air defense infrastructure amid limited resources.

[37] Following the Gulf War, the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) initiated a broad modernization program to address regional security challenges and enhance its strategic capabilities.

The acquisition of several Antonov An-32 aircraft from Ukraine provided the RJAF with enhanced STOL capabilities, allowing rapid transport for the Royal Special Forces in remote or challenging environments.

In the late 1990s, the RJAF received two squadrons of AH-1F Cobra gunships from the U.S. Army, later transferring some to Pakistan as Jordan transitioned to new platforms, including the Boeing AH-6 light attack helicopter.

The RJAF also plays a critical role in joint operations with the United States Air Force, conducting routine exercises to enhance regional interoperability and readiness.

[54] In late January 2024, the Royal Jordanian Air Force was actively involved in a coordinated response following the Tower 22 drone attack on a U.S. base in northeastern Jordan.

[55] On February 3, 2024, as part of the U.S.-led retaliation, RJAF F-16s joined American B-1B bombers and other aircraft in a series of airstrikes targeting strategic militia positions across Syria and Iraq.

The RJAF provided air support along the Syria-Iraq border, focusing on surveillance and striking secondary targets to limit militia movements and escape routes.

[56][57] In Syria, the strikes targeted several high-value facilities in Deir ez-Zor and al-Bukamal, including weapons depots, intelligence centers, and militia command posts affiliated with pro-Iranian forces.

The RJAF's involvement marked its expanded role in regional counterterrorism and security efforts, signaling its commitment to supporting coalition forces against Iranian influence.

[58] RJAF’s role in these strikes highlighted Jordan’s expanding security alliance with the United States, reflecting a proactive stance on countering threats from Iranian-aligned militias.

As part of Jordan’s commitment to supporting Palestinian civilians, the RJAF carried out multiple air drops of food, medical supplies, and essential relief items to Gaza, under challenging conditions and amidst ongoing regional conflict.

[60] This mission underscored Jordan’s role in regional humanitarian assistance, with the RJAF working closely with international agencies to ensure safe passage and distribution of aid.

The Royal Jordanian Air Force has been on a dynamic journey of modernization, acquiring new aircraft, phasing out older models, and pushing forward with advanced upgrades to maintain an edge in the region.

This upgrade is approximately equivalent to the capabilities of the F-16C/D Block 50/52 series, equipping the jets with advanced munitions like GBU bombs, JDAM kits, AAM, and ASM weapons, as well as targeting and reconnaissance pods.

[123][124] As part of its long-term modernization strategy, in January 2023, the RJAF confirmed the phased retirement of older aircraft types while prioritizing the F-16 Block 70 deliveries expected to begin in late 2024.

This acquisition will cement Jordan’s air superiority role in the region, equipping it with a versatile fighter capable of handling modern threats across a range of mission profiles.