On Thursday 12 October 2023, the Ghana Air Force participated in Exercise Ogboole, an annual combined Central and West African Multinational Maritime exercise which took place in the Gulf of Guinea, Ghana.

The simulation exercise focused on increased regional cooperation, maritime safety and security.

The scenario for the exercise was based on a mass casualty evacuation which involved an airplane crash into the sea, offshore the Osu landing beach.

Over 200 participants from 35 countries and regional groupings featured in this year's exercise.

These include, Spain, France, USA, Morocco, Nigeria, Togo, Benin, Cameroon, Cote D'Ivoire, Cape Verde, International Maritime Organization (IMO), Inter-Regional Coordinating Centre and ECOWAS Regional Coordinating Centre (CRESMAO).

Akin to their role, the Ghana Air Force provided assistance for the Navy Special Boat Squadron (SBS) rescue team fast roping and air drops.

Also, the Air Force provided assistance for the SBS during their search and rescue operation.

As part of the scenario, the Air Force conducted Casualty/Medical evacuation (CASEVAC/MEDEVAC) for simulated critical medical cases from Independence Square, Accra to the 37 Military hospital.

Key to the Exercise was the coordination of events role played by the Operations Staff at the Air Force Headquarters. This ensured a seamless transition of events.

In an interview with the Officer Commanding No 3 Squadron, Air Force Base Accra, Wing Commander Charles Dawoe, he commended the Ghana Airports Company Limited and other stakeholders for the collaborative effort to test their operational readiness and improve their response capacity in tackling maritime incidents.

He added that, the Air Force was ever ready to provide disaster management relief flights and missions to support the government and safeguard the aviation airspace of the country.

Wing Commander Dawoe applauded the Pilots, Air Crew and Operations Staff for their agility and swift maneuver in carrying out their assigned task to ensure the success of the exercise.

The Air Force role was spearheaded by the Director Air Operations, Group Captain Boadu.