Top 10 countries with the most attack helicopters

Attack helicopters in modern warfare have become essential for influencing military outcomes and discouraging enemies.

• Business Insider Africa presents the top 10 countries with the most attack helicopters.
• This list is courtesy of Global Firepower.
• The USA ranks number 1 on the list.

These rotary-wing aircraft, which are quick, nimble, well-armed, and able to carry out precise strikes, have revolutionized nation-states' conventional and asymmetric warfare tactics.

Having sizable, contemporary attack helicopter fleets gives a country a number of strategic benefits, from fast reaction to combat superiority.

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Attack helicopters are military helicopters designed to transport and deploy weaponry such as machine guns, rockets, and guided missiles.

Unlike transport or utility helicopters, attack helicopters are designed for battle, specifically against enemy tanks, armored vehicles, ground soldiers, and fortifications.

These aircraft are outfitted with modern avionics, night vision systems, electronic countermeasures, and long-range targeting sensors, making them lethal both during the day and at night, in clear or foggy battle zones.

Attack helicopters enable governments to deploy overwhelming firepower from the air, eliminating the need for fixed-wing aircraft runways.

They can hover, maneuver through tight spaces, and strike at unexpected angles.

Countries with large fleets can bombard a battlefield with aerial fire support, crippling enemy tanks and fortifications while supporting infantry operations from above.

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This air-ground synergy considerably improves a nation's offensive and defensive military capabilities, particularly in tough or urban situations where traditional airpower may be ineffective.

The mere presence of assault helicopters on a battlefield conveys a strong psychological message. Their distinct sound and devastating impact can demoralize opposing forces and deter aggression.

A country that routinely displays or deploys large helicopter fleets in drills or border patrols demonstrates both power and preparedness.

Potential rivals may think twice about fighting a state renowned for its overwhelming rotary airpower.

With that said, here are the 10 countries with the most attack helicopters, as per data from Global Firepower.

Top 10 countries with the most attack helicopters

Rank	Country	Number of attack helicopters
1.	United States	1,002
2.	Russia	557
3.	China	281
4.	Japan	119
5.	South Korea	111
6.	Turkey	111
7.	Egypt	100
8.	Taiwan	91
9.	India	80
10.	Algeria	74

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