Government to Procure New Aircraft and Helicopters for Ghana Air Force in 2026

By: Solomon Nartey Tetteh
The Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced that the government will begin procurement processes in 2026 for four new helicopters and two aircraft for the Ghana Air Force as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s defence and emergency response capabilities.
Presenting the 2026 Budget Statement to Parliament, Dr. Forson said the acquisition forms part of a broader plan to modernize Ghana’s armed forces and enhance their operational readiness.
“For the Air Force, procurement will begin immediately in 2026 for four new helicopters and two aircraft to enhance airlift, patrols, and emergency response operations,” he stated.
He emphasized that the new assets will not only boost surveillance and patrol operations but also improve the military’s capacity to respond swiftly to national emergencies and humanitarian situations.
Dr. Forson described the initiative as part of a comprehensive agenda aimed at transforming Ghana’s defence system into a modern, agile, and mission-ready force.
“This new agenda will transform Ghana’s armed forces into a modern, agile, and mission-ready defence force worthy of our sovereignty and the sacrifice of our heroes,” he affirmed.
The planned procurement underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding national security and ensuring that the armed forces are well-equipped to meet emerging security and disaster-response challenges across the country and the subregion.