The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Eric Agyen-Frempong, has shared his vision for the Ghana Air Force with participants of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), Senior Command and Staff Course (SCSC) 48, during the College's Air Combat Power Week at Hamidu Hall on Thursday, 29 October 2026.
The presentation focused on the Ghana Air Force Strategy for 2025 to 2030, outlining plans to modernise air capabilities, strengthen personnel development and enhance the Service's contribution to national and regional security.
The Base Commander, Air Force Base Tamale (AFB TAM), Air Commodore Kwabena Kissiedu Manukure Atiemo, who delivered the presentation on behalf of the CAS, explained that the strategy sought to transform the Ghana Air Force from a platform centred service into a capability driven force. He emphasised that effective airpower depends not only on aircraft and weapons but also on trained personnel, maintenance, logistics, infrastructure, technology, and sustainable financing. He indicated that Key priorities included the modernisation and sustainment of existing aircraft, the acquisition of unmanned aerial vehicles and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems, improved radar capabilities, enhanced air mobility, and the development of fighter and rotary wing capabilities to strengthen operational readiness.
On personnel development and operational reach, Air Commodore Atiemo highlighted plans to expand professional and technical training through the Ghana Air Force Aviation College, strengthen simulator based training, and deepen partnerships with foreign military institutions. He also outlined plans to improve infrastructure and forward operating locations, alongside a proposed restructuring of the Service into Eastern, Western and Northern Air Commands to enhance national coverage and rapid response.
He identified persistent budgetary constraints, slow technological acquisition, dependence on foreign suppliers, personnel retention challenges and infrastructure limitations as major obstacles to implementing the strategy. He emphasised the need for predictable defence funding, diversified international partnerships, greater investment in indigenous research and development, improved personnel welfare and enhanced career progression.
The Commandant of GAFCSC, Major General (Maj Gen) Jackson Wonje, expressed appreciation to Air Commodore Atiemo for delivering the presentation on behalf of the CAS, describing his presence as an honour to the College. In recognition of his contribution to the professional development of the course participants, the Commandant presented him with a plaque for onward delivery to the Chief of the Air Staff.
By Cpl Dakudji O Majorie
Pictures by Sgt Amoako Eugene and L/Cpl Nkansah Herbert