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08.01.2008 General News

Air Force To Be Re-Equipped

08.01.2008 LISTEN
By Francis Xah - newtimesonline.com

Ghana’s Air Force will soon be modernised with the supply of a new fleet of sophisticated aircraft, Kan-Dapaah, Minister of Defence in Accra said on Friday.

He said in view of the vital role of the Ghana Airforce in the maintenance of security and other social services, cabinet will meet at the end of this month to take a firm decision on the matter.

Kan-Dapaah said this last Friday in Accra, when he addressed the Ghana Air Force West African Soldiers Social Activity (WASSA).

The WASSA celebration enables officers and men of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) to interact freely and reflect on their activities over the year.

Mr. Kan-Dapaah said the government has already ordered a K8 aircraft and a simulator, which would be delivered next month to boost the operational efficiency of the Number Four Fighter squadron.

He also said the government received proposals for re-equipping of the various squadrons and announced that a recommendation for the acquisition of a transport aircraft will also be discussed at the January cabinet meeting.

'I am optimistic that, the government will give approval in principle for the ministry to conclude negotiations for the purchase to enhance the operational capabilities of the squadrons.' He assured.

He said the programmed acquisition of aircrafts for the Airforce bgan with the delivery of MI 17 Helicopter last two years, Kan-Dapaah praised the Air Force for partnering the Army, Navy, NADMO and other diplomatic and philanthropic organisations to airlift relief items on the quiet to flood victims of the three northern regions.

He has however cautioned the Airforce to be impartial in the lifting of voting materials and officials to very remote areas during the 2008 general elections.

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