Finance Minister Announces Major Investments in Army, Navy, and Air Force in 2026 Budget
The Government of Ghana has announced a comprehensive retooling and modernization programme for the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) as part of the 2026 national budget, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson stated on Thursday during the presentation of the budget themed, “The Ghana We Want”, to Parliament.
Dr Forson said the initiative is aimed at strengthening the operational effectiveness of the Army, Navy, and Air Force in response to evolving security challenges across the country. “Significant investments are being made across all three Services to upgrade logistics, equipment, and infrastructure,” he added.
The Minister highlighted specific interventions for each service branch. For the Ghana Army, Dr Forson noted that a supplier’s credit agreement of US$80 million was signed in August 2020 with Messrs. ELBIT Systems Land Ltd for nineteen Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and related defence systems. However, despite US$40 million having been disbursed, the vehicles have yet to be delivered. Government will renegotiate the agreement and present it to Parliament for approval to prevent further financial loss.
Regarding the Navy, Dr Forson indicated that the service, which safeguards the nation’s maritime domain and offshore assets, faces challenges such as an ageing fleet and limited maintenance infrastructure. To address this, the 2026 budget provides for the acquisition of two 72-metre Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) equipped with helipads and combat systems to enhance long-endurance patrols, maritime security, and oil field protection.
The Air Force will also benefit from the retooling programme. The government plans to initiate procurement of four modern helicopters, one long-range, and one medium-range aircraft beginning in 2026. Delivery is expected within four years, contingent on the completion of procurement processes.
“These measures form part of a broader national strategy to enhance defence readiness and ensure the Ghana Armed Forces are equipped to meet both current and future security demands,” Dr Forson concluded.
