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Ghana’s Ministry of Defence has awarded contract to Airbus Helicopters for the supply of two H175Ms, one ACH175 and one ACH160 helicopters.
Airbus Helicopters confirmed the purchase of the helicopters in a statement issued on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
The prices for these helicopters have not yet been disclosed by either the company or Government.
Airbus Helicopters says the H175Ms will be used as multi-mission helicopters for transport, search and rescue, emergency medical services and disaster relief while the ACH175 and ACH160 will be operated for transport.
Arnaud Montalvo, Head of Africa and Middle East Region for Airbus Helicopters said the deal “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,” he added.
Airbus’ H175 which has been in service since 2014 belongs to the super-medium class of helicopters, combining long-range and payload with smooth flight qualities, making it the optimal solution for a wide range of onshore and offshore mission profiles, including disaster relief, search and rescue, public services and a wide range of military missions, as well as crew change and private and business aviation.
According to Airbus, the ACH160 is the latest member of the ACH family and is the world’s most technologically advanced helicopter, with 68 new Airbus patented technologies.
It provides 20% greater volume per passenger compared to previous generation medium twin helicopters and 35% larger windows than its competitors, resulting in the brightest cabin in its class.
Background
In the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy presented in November 2025, Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced a significant retooling of the Ghana Armed Forces.
This plan includes the immediate procurement of four modern helicopters and two aircraft to enhance the military’s airlift, patrol, and emergency response capabilities starting in 2026.
Parliament further approved an agreement worth €125.97 million ($136.5 million) with Airbus Helicopters SAS for these four helicopters.
The aircraft are expected to be delivered over a four-year period, beginning in 2026.
The fleet will support aerial surveillance, search and rescue, medical evacuations, and troop transport, addressing the operational challenges of an aging fleet.
SOURCE:3newsgh.com