By: Adams Perpetual
Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, has announced that the government will retool the Ghana Armed Forces and strengthen the Ghana National Fire Service starting in 2026.
Speaking during the 2026 Budget presentation in Parliament, he said the initiative, on November 13, 2025, aims to create a modern, agile, and mission-ready defence force while improving emergency response across the country.
Dr. Forson explained that the Armed Forces modernisation programme will upgrade logistics, equipment, and infrastructure across all services. For the Army, the government is renegotiating an $80 million Elbit Systems contract to acquire 19 armoured personnel carriers, boosting ground readiness. For the Navy, two 272-metre offshore patrol vessels equipped with helipads and modern combat systems have been acquired to protect Ghana’s maritime zones, offshore energy assets, and trade routes.
For the Air Force, procurement will begin immediately in 2026 for four new helicopters and two aircraft to enhance airlift, patrol, and emergency response operations. Dr. Forson said this retooling agenda will transform Ghana’s armed forces into a modern, mission-ready force, capable of safeguarding national sovereignty and addressing evolving security challenges.
The Finance Minister also announced plans to retool the Ghana National Fire Service with 100 new fire tenders and assorted fire equipment. He said the government will collaborate with the private sector to introduce high-rise fire equipment, improving the service’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, protecting lives and property.
