Venezuela is undertaking a major re-equipment of its armed forces. One of the most significant purchases to date has been the order for 24 Su-30MKV Flanker multi-role fighters, two of which are pictured.

One of Venezuela's most potent assets is the dozen or so F-16s it has operational, which are more capable than any other fighter in the air arms of its neighbours.

Colombian Air Force Sikorsky UH-60L Black Hawks have been used extensively in the fight against FARC.

Ecuador's airforce is the last in the world to use the BAC-167 Strikemaster, two of which are illustrated. Due to rising tensions with Colombia, the air station at Lago Agrio has been upgraded to a full airbase with a permanent detachment of Strikemasters and A-37B Dragonflies.

A pre-delivery shot of a Colombian Air Force EMB-314 Super Tucano. Two of these aircraft were used to attack the FARC camp and kill the group's deputy leader Paul Reyes. This led to a major international incident with Ecuador, which was supported by Venezuela.