The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has announced the government's efforts to modernize Ghana’s Armed Forces, beginning with the retooling of the Air Force and Navy and the renegotiation of a stalled defense procurement agreement in 2026.

Presenting the 2026 Budget Statement to Parliament, the minister stated that the Ghana Air Force faces serious operational challenges due to an ageing fleet and high maintenance demands, which have affected its readiness and efficiency.

To address this, the government will commence procurement processes in 2026 for the acquisition of four modern helicopters, one long-range aircraft and one medium-range aircraft to strengthen the country’s air operations.

“The Air Force also faces significant operational challenges, including an ageing fleet and aircraft with high maintenance demands, which affect readiness and efficiency.

"Mr Speaker, the Ghana Air Force will be retooled. Beginning in 2026, the government of Ghana will initiate procurement processes for the acquisition of four modern helicopters, one long-range aircraft and one medium-range aircraft.

"Mr Speaker, these aircraft are expected to be delivered within four years, provided the procurement processes are completed in 2026,” he said.

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He added that the aircraft are expected to be delivered within four years, contingent on the timely completion of the procurement process.

Dr Ato Forson also disclosed that the government is renegotiating a supplier credit agreement signed in August 2020 with Messrs for the supply of 19 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs).

“Government has taken steps to renegotiate the existing agreement with the supplier and it will be re-presented to Parliament for consideration.

"Mr Speaker, the Ghana Navy remains a key pillar in safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, ensuring territorial integrity and protecting strategic offshore assets, including oil and gas installations,” he shared.

SP/AM