DBDC INTERNATIONAL DEFENCE PUBLICATIONS & EVENTS UK LTD

Photo credit: Ghana Armed Forces

The Ghana Air Force has taken delivery of a new Airbus Corporate H175 helicopter during a ceremony held at Air Force Base Accra on Thursday, 5 March 2026.

The acquisition reflects the Government of Ghana’s commitment to strengthening the operational capabilities of the Ghana Air Force, enabling it to effectively carry out its national defence and public service missions.

Upon arrival, the aircraft was welcomed with a water cannon salute, a traditional aviation ceremony marking the induction of a new aircraft into service.

The H175 helicopter will join the existing fleet of the Ghana Air Force and is expected to support a range of critical operations, including:

• Medical evacuation (MEDEVAC)
• Humanitarian assistance
• Search and rescue (SAR)
• Disaster response missions

The ceremony was attended by senior government and military officials, including Acting Minister for Defence Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Deputy Minister for Defence Hon. Ernest Brogya Genfi, Minister for Roads and Highways Hon. Governs Kwame Agbodza, and the Chief of the Defence Staff Lt Gen William Agyapong, alongside members of the Military High Command.

Airbus Helicopters Contract with Ghana

Airbus Helicopters has secured a contract with the Ministry of Defence of Ghana for a total of four helicopters, comprising:

• Two H175M multi-mission helicopters
• One ACH175
• One ACH160

The H175M aircraft will serve as multi-mission platforms supporting transport, search and rescue, emergency medical services, and disaster relief operations.

Meanwhile, the ACH175 and ACH160 corporate helicopters will primarily be used for transport missions.

Commenting on the agreement, Arnaud Montalvo, Head of Africa and Middle East Region for Airbus Helicopters, stated:

“The commitment from Ghana marks the return of Airbus Helicopters to the country with a defined focus on customer support and partnership. We are particularly excited that the H175M will be operated in Ghana, demonstrating the aircraft’s versatility across defence and security missions. This key deal also makes Ghana a leading customer in West Africa for our premium corporate helicopters, the ACH160 and ACH175.”

About the Airbus H175

Introduced into service in 2014, the Airbus H175 belongs to the super-medium class of helicopters. The platform combines long-range capability, significant payload capacity, and smooth flight characteristics, making it suitable for a wide range of missions.

Operational roles include:

• Disaster relief
• Search and rescue
• Public service missions
• Offshore operations
• Military transport and utility tasks
• Crew transport for energy sector operations
• Private and business aviation

About the ACH160

The ACH160, the newest member of the Airbus Corporate Helicopters (ACH) family, represents the most technologically advanced helicopter in its class.

The aircraft incorporates 68 patented Airbus technologies, offering significant improvements in performance and passenger comfort. Compared with previous-generation medium twin helicopters, the ACH160 provides:

• 20% greater passenger cabin volume
• 35% larger windows, delivering the brightest cabin in its category

These features make it particularly well suited for VIP, corporate, and executive transport missions.