Ghana Acquires Four Airbus Helicopters to Boost Emergency Response and Security Capabilities

Ghana has taken a major step towards strengthening its national emergency response and security infrastructure with the acquisition of four advanced helicopters from Airbus Helicopters, following a contract awarded by the Ministry of Defence.

The deal covers two H175M multi-mission helicopters and two Airbus Corporate Helicopters (ACH) platforms, one ACH175 and one ACH160, significantly enhancing the country’s capacity for search and rescue, emergency medical services (EMS), disaster relief and official transport operations.

Under the agreement, the government will fully finance the purchase over a four-year period. An initial instalment of €62.5 million has already been paid, with subsequent payments scheduled for May 2026, March 2027 and December 2028.

According to a press release from Airbus Helicopters, the H175M aircraft will be deployed for transport, search and rescue, emergency medical services and disaster relief missions. The platforms are expected to provide Ghana with greater operational flexibility in responding to civilian emergencies as well as security-related tasks.

Announcing the agreement, Head of the Africa and Middle East Region for Airbus Helicopters, Arnaud Montalvo, described the contract as a renewal of the long-standing relationship between Ghana and the aircraft manufacturer.

“The commitment from Ghana marks the return of Airbus Helicopters to the country with a defined focus on customer support and partnership,” he said.

Mr Montalvo explained that the choice of the H175M reflects Ghana’s operational requirements across defence, humanitarian and public service missions, while the inclusion of corporate helicopters highlights the government’s emphasis on reliable, modern and efficient transport for official duties.

“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,” he added.

The H175M is the militarised variant of the super-medium H175 helicopter, which has been in global service since 2014. It is designed to deliver long range, high payload capacity and smooth flight performance, making it suitable for disaster response, public services and military operations.

The ACH160 and ACH175 form part of Airbus’ corporate helicopter portfolio and feature enhanced cabin designs tailored for executive and government transport. The aircraft place a strong emphasis on passenger comfort, advanced technology and operational efficiency.

Airbus Helicopters did not disclose the overall cost of the contract or delivery timelines for the aircraft.

The acquisition comes at a time when African governments are increasing investment in modern air assets to support security, humanitarian and public service operations. Airbus Helicopters currently has more than 500 aircraft in service across Africa, performing roles that include law enforcement, medical evacuation, disaster response and offshore energy support.

For Ghana, the addition of the new helicopters is expected to significantly improve rapid response during emergencies and disasters, while also strengthening air mobility for defence and government operations nationwide.

Click the link Puretvonline.com | WhatsApp Channel to join the WhatsApp channel

GOT A STORY?

Contact/WhatsApp: +233243201960 or manuelnkansah33@gmail.com