Royal Lao Air Force

The Royal Lao Air Force (RLAF) was established in 1955 as the aerial branch of the Royal Lao Armed Forces, tasked with defending the Kingdom of Laos during a period of regional upheaval. Initially equipped with French-supplied aircraft, the RLAF later received significant support and training from the United States throughout the Laotian Civil War. The RLAF played a crucial role in reconnaissance, close air support, and supply missions, especially against Pathet Lao and North Vietnamese forces. Despite limited resources and challenging terrain, the RLAF remained active until the collapse of the Royal Lao Government in 1975, after which it was dissolved following the communist takeover.