The Minister for Defence, Dominic Nitiwul has underscored the need to prioritise counterterrorism.
He said with threats of terrorist attack within the West African sub-region, preparing against such insurgence is only a matter of course.
Mr Nitiwul made this comment during his keynote address at the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft demonstration held at the Air Force Base in Accra on Monday February 19, 2024.
“The importance of prioritizing counter-terrorism efforts to address the evolving security landscape cannot be overemphasised. The A-29 Super Tucano aircraft presents itself as a suitable aircraft to augment the Ghana Air Force’s capabilities in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism,” the Defence Minister noted.
Organised by the Ghana Air Force in collaboration with Embraer Defence and Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), the event aimed to showcase the A-29 Super Tucano’s prowess in close air support and aerial reconnaissance missions in low-threat environments.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal Frederick Asare Kwasi Bekoe, expressed enthusiasm about the static and flight display, emphasizing the importance of acquiring light attack aircraft in the face of increasing terrorism threats within the sub-region.
He added that the partnership with SNC and Embraer was timely, considering the A-29 Super Tucano was a strategic offensive platform to enhance the Ghana Air Force’s deterrent and offensive posture within the sub-region.
Representatives from SNC and Embraer, Mr Eric Hauff and Mr Arnold Sobrero, expressed delight in the collaborative opportunity as it aligns with their objectives for future cooperation.
As a prelude to aerial display, dignitaries present had the opportunity to access the tarmac area for the static display and aircraft viewing. The audience was then treated to a mesmerizing aerial display featuring fly-pasts and impressive maneuvering drills.
Here are more photos from the event:
