Accra: President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has asked the Ghana Air Force to sustain its collaboration with state institutions to safeguard the country’s energy infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of protecting these critical facilities to uphold the nation’s territorial integrity and economic interests.
According to Ghana News Agency, the President made these remarks while addressing the 2024 Wings Parade of the Ghana Air Force in Accra. He highlighted the crucial partnership between the Ghana Armed Forces and entities like the Volta River Authority (VRA) and Ghana Gas Company, which has been instrumental in safeguarding essential resources.
In efforts to enhance operational capability, combat efficiency, and logistics, the Akufo-Addo administration has taken significant steps to restructure and retool the Armed Forces. The government has acquired a variety of advanced military equipment, including 163 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), combat vehicles, trucks, and general vehicles, to boost the
army’s effectiveness.
Additionally, the military has been equipped with new surveillance and communication technologies, such as optical systems and night vision technology, to improve operational performance. President Akufo-Addo also announced plans to further strengthen the Air Force by procuring six L-39 Ground Fighter Aircraft, two additional Ground Power Units, and various aircraft, including Casa C2A5 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Mi-71SH Military Airlift Helicopters, VIP Transport Helicopters (H-225), and four H-125 Reconnaissance Light Attack helicopters.
These investments aim to support Special Forces operations and enhance the overall military capability. President Akufo-Addo stated, “All these investments are to ensure that the Armed Forces are well equipped and motivated to deliver on their primary mandate of safeguarding the peace, integrity and security of the nation.”
The government expects that retooling military personnel will enhance intelligence gathering, provide better protection, and imp
rove mobility and firepower for troops engaged in security operations. The 2024 Wings Parade, reviewed by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the GAF, saw the presentation of Air Crew Badges and awards to twelve pilots at the Ghana Air Force Base, Burma Camp, Accra.
