The Ghana Air Force has taken delivery of a newly acquired Airbus H175 from France as part of efforts to modernise its operational fleet and strengthen national security capabilities.

The helicopter arrived in Accra on Thursday, March 5, 2026 after completing its delivery journey from Marignane in southern France, where it was manufactured by Airbus Helicopters. The aircraft had earlier undergone all required technical acceptance procedures before its transfer to Ghana.

According to military officials, the delivery represents an important milestone in the ongoing retooling of the Ghana Armed Forces under the administration of John Dramani Mahama. The broader procurement programme aims to strengthen operational readiness while addressing the challenges posed by an ageing fleet of aircraft.

The newly acquired helicopter was ferried to Ghana through a carefully planned international route designed to ensure safe and efficient delivery. After departing from Marignane in France, the aircraft travelled through Spain before continuing across North West Africa.

From there, the helicopter followed the Atlantic coastline through several West African countries before finally landing in Accra. The long delivery route was completed successfully, marking the aircraft’s official arrival in Ghana.

Officials from the Ghana Air Force indicated that the successful delivery reflects the close coordination between the manufacturer and Ghanaian aviation teams throughout the process.

Part of Wider Aircraft Procurement Programme

The arrival of the Airbus H175 forms part of a broader aircraft acquisition initiative approved by Parliament to strengthen the operational capacity of the country’s air force.

Under the programme, Ghana is expected to acquire several aircraft including one Airbus H160 and three Airbus H175 helicopters from Airbus Helicopters. The procurement plan also includes a Dassault Falcon 6X manufactured by Dassault Aviation.

The programme was designed to address operational limitations associated with older aircraft within the Air Force fleet while improving mission readiness and operational flexibility.

Military officials say modern aircraft will provide enhanced capabilities for a wide range of missions including emergency response and national security operations.

Ceremonial Welcome at Air Force Base

Upon its arrival at the Air Force Base in Accra, the aircraft was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute. This aviation ceremony involves airport fire trucks spraying arcs of water above an arriving aircraft to form a symbolic arch as the aircraft taxis beneath it.

The gesture is widely recognised in both civil and military aviation as a sign of honour and celebration for newly delivered aircraft or those joining an operational fleet.

Following the ceremonial welcome, the helicopter was consecrated by clergy led by Brigadier General Benjamin Godson Kumi Wood, Director General of Religious Affairs within the Ghana Armed Forces.

Several senior government officials and military leaders attended the reception ceremony, highlighting the strategic importance of the aircraft acquisition.

Among those present were the Acting Minister for Defence, Cassiel Ato Forson, and the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza. Also in attendance was the Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi.

The event was further attended by the Deputy Head of Mission at the French Embassy in Ghana, His Excellency Raphael Pont, alongside senior officers of the Ghana Armed Forces including the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, and other service chiefs.

Their presence reflected the importance of defence cooperation between Ghana and France as well as the broader goal of strengthening Ghana’s military capabilities.

Expanded Operational Capabilities Expected

The addition of the Airbus H175 is expected to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Ghana Air Force across a wide range of missions.

Military authorities say the aircraft will support activities such as search and rescue operations, medical evacuation, humanitarian assistance, disaster response and maritime surveillance. It will also be used for troop movement and logistics support during military operations.

The helicopter is equipped with advanced avionics systems, extended operational range and increased payload capacity. These features allow it to operate more efficiently in diverse environments while providing improved endurance during long missions.

Officials believe the aircraft will strengthen the Air Force’s ability to respond quickly to both conventional and emerging security challenges.

Post Delivery Procedures Before Deployment

Before entering active service, the helicopter will undergo several standard post delivery procedures in accordance with Ghana Air Force operational guidelines.

These procedures include comprehensive technical inspections, documentation verification and ground testing to confirm that the aircraft meets all operational standards. Engineers will also conduct functional checks and configuration assessments as part of the induction process.

Aircrew conversion training will be carried out to ensure pilots and technical personnel are fully familiar with the aircraft’s systems and operational characteristics. Engineering teams will also undergo specialised training to support maintenance and servicing.

Following these processes, the helicopter will be formally integrated into the Air Force’s operational inventory and command structures. Military authorities say the acquisition reflects the Ghana Air Force’s continuing commitment to strengthening operational capacity and maintaining readiness in support of national security objectives.

By modernising its fleet and improving operational flexibility, the Air Force aims to enhance its ability to respond to emergencies, protect national interests and support humanitarian missions when required.

Officials believe the addition of modern aircraft will also improve the Armed Forces’ contribution to national development efforts and regional security cooperation.