The Saudi Arabian National Guard operates as an independent military branch reporting directly to the King. Its aviation command, established in 2011, provides organic rotary-wing support for internal security, counter-terrorism, and protection of vital infrastructure.
SAUDI ARABIAN NATIONAL GUARD (AVIATION) • طيران الحرس الوطني السعودي
National Guard ε130,000 personnel. Status: Subordinate to the Ministry of National Guard. Mission: Internal security, urban combat support, and specialized rapid-response operations.
Forces by Role & Equipment by Type
National Guard Aviation Command
• HELICOPTER 71 active combat/support platforms.
Attack Helicopters 47 Atk Hel:
- 35 MD500 / AH-6i Little Bird;
- 12 Boeing AH-64E Apache (24 additional on order).
Transport Helicopters 24 Tpt Hel:
- 24 Sikorsky S-70 / HH-60 / UH-60M Black Hawk (148 additional on order).
Note: By 2026, the Saudi Arabian National Guard is in the midst of a massive expansion of its organic air power. The force is currently awaiting the delivery of 148 Black Hawk variants and 24 additional AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters, which will significantly transform it into one of the most capable rotary-wing units in the Middle East. In alignment with Vision 2030, these assets are supported by a growing domestic maintenance infrastructure; specifically, Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) has entered agreements for the local repair of helicopter engines and advanced targeting systems to ensure higher operational readiness and reduced dependency on foreign contractors.
4/5 Generation Fighters 
