The Government of Ghana has taken delivery of a new Airbus H175 helicopter from France to enhance the operational capacity of the Ghana Air Force.

The aircraft is expected to support a wide range of missions, including search and rescue operations, medical evacuation, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, maritime surveillance, and the transport of troops and logistics.

Equipped with advanced systems, the helicopter offers an extended operational range and increased payload capacity, which will significantly improve the Air Force’s endurance, flexibility and rapid response capabilities in addressing both conventional and emerging security challenges.

Officials say the aircraft will undergo a series of post-delivery procedures in line with Ghana Air Force operational requirements before it is fully deployed for service.

A ceremony to formally receive the helicopter into the Air Force fleet was attended by the Acting Minister for Defence, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson; the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza; and the Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi.

Also present were the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, senior military officers, dignitaries, and representatives from the French Embassy in Ghana.

The event featured a ceremonial water salute, the consecration of the aircraft, and an inspection of the helicopter by the dignitaries.