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Mexico, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa, and Argentina are notable countries whose air forces currently lack multirole fighter jets. This list excludes light or ground fighter jets such as the F-5 Northrop and Sukhoi Su-25 Frogfoot.
Mexico's air force primarily relies on 36 light combat aircraft, including three aging F-5Es and 33 PC-7 Turbo Trainers. The country's air force was founded in 1913 (or 1915) and has around 30,000 personnel. "Perhaps the most surprising country that doesn't operate fighter jets is Mexico," notes FlightGlobal. Despite its large size as a Spanish-speaking nation, Mexico's proximity to the United States might influence its limited investment in a robust combat air force.
New Zealand does not have any combat aircraft following the disbandment of its A-4 Skyhawk and Aermacchi MB-339-equipped squadrons in 2001. The Royal New Zealand Air Force was established in 1923 and consists of approximately 2,388 personnel. During WWII, New Zealand pilots played a significant role in the Battle of Britain. Plans to lease F-16 Fighting Falcons from the United States were canceled after an election promise by the incoming Labour Government.
