Ghana Parliament approves $60m jet and €125m helicopter deal to modernize Air Force fleet
In a key development for Ghana’s defence capabilities, Parliament has approved a major procurement deal to expand and modernise the fleet of the Ghana Air Force (GAF). On 4 December 2025 lawmakers endorsed a contract for a Dassault Falcon 6X jet valued at US$60 million, along with a separate agreement with Airbus Helicopters for the supply of one H160 and three H175 helicopters at a cost of approximately €125 million.
The procurement package represents part of a broader plan to address the deteriorating condition of the Air Force’s current fleet, which officials say has faced maintenance challenges, limited readiness, and operational constraints. The new aircraft are expected to enhance military air transport, logistical support, troop and cargo movement, maritime patrols, disaster response, surveillance, and medical evacuations.
Deputy Minister of Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, laid the contract agreements before the House on 3 December 2025. The Second Deputy Speaker referred the proposals to the joint committees on Defence and Interior for review. Following committee deliberations, Parliament’s endorsement signals official approval for procurement to proceed.
Government officials and military strategists describe the acquisition as essential to restoring Ghana’s air defence readiness, improving logistical capacity, and enhancing sovereignty in national security and emergency response operations. The long-range jet will provide strategic lift capability for rapid troop and cargo deployment, while helicopters will support patrols, surveillance, search and rescue, and humanitarian missions.
However, the decision has attracted scrutiny from critics and some opposition lawmakers, who question why previous requests for similar fleet upgrades were rejected, and whether the procurement represents prudent use of public funds given other pressing economic challenges.
Still, proponents argue that maintaining an effective air force is critical for national security, disaster response, and protecting Ghana’s territorial integrity. They say the investment may also reduce long-term maintenance costs, improve service quality, and boost the country’s capacity to contribute to regional peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.
With formal approval secured, the next phase involves finalising procurement, delivery timelines, maintenance planning, and integration of the new assets into the Air Force fleet roster. Defence planners expect delivery of the aircraft over the next few years, subject to production schedules and logistical arrangements.
