Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has declared that starting in 2026, the government will initiate procurement procedures for the purchase of four modern helicopters, one long-range aircraft, and one medium-range aircraft to enhance the operational efficiency of the Ghana Air Force.
While presenting the 2026 Budget on Thursday, November 13, he indicated that the aircraft are anticipated to be delivered within four years following the completion of the procurement processes. He explained that this initiative is part of the government’s broader commitment to upgrading the country’s security forces and improving national defense capabilities.
He underscored the importance of the Ghana Air Force, which he described as a vital component of national defense, offering aerial surveillance, troop and logistics transport, air defense, maritime patrol support, disaster response, and medical evacuation operations.
Ato Forson pointed out the operational difficulties faced by the institution due to an aging fleet and significant maintenance requirements, which hinder readiness and efficiency. He stated that the planned acquisitions will assist in overcoming these challenges and improve the Force’s capacity to respond promptly to both security and humanitarian demands.
“The Ghana Air Force will be retooled. Starting in 2026, the Government of Ghana will commence procurement processes for the acquisition of four modern helicopters, one long-range, and one medium-range aircraft,” he remarked.
“Mr. Speaker, on August 13, 2020, the Government of Ghana entered into a supplier’s credit agreement of US$80 million with Messrs. ELBIT Systems Land Ltd for the procurement of nineteen (19) Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and associated defense systems,” he further added.
