The Ghana Air Force (GHF) has delivered close air support to the Ghana Army in a Land Combat Fire Power Demonstration on Friday, 1 November 2024 at the Battle Training Camp in Bundase.

The exercise which is an annual event forms an integral part of the training programme for students at the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC). It was designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the operational framework and deployment of military assets as part of a Joint Taskforce. 

The participation of the Ghana Air Force in the exercise was in line with the mission of the Air Force to deliver air power to meet national security objectives.

This year's exercise involved a comprehensive simulation of practical combat experiences aimed at equipping the students of Senior Command and Staff Course 46 with interoperability skills, highlighting GAF’s focus on inter-service collaboration and preparedness in the face of regional security challenges.

In his opening remarks, the General Officer Commanding the Southern Command of the Ghana Army, the  Joint Taskforce Commander, Brigadier General Samuel Yeboah Asare outlined the objectives of the Land Combat Power Demonstration stating that the exercise sought to deepen knowledge of the Ghana Army’s operational strategies and capabilities, build awareness of the land combat environment and associated challenges and to enhance understanding of the various components of a battle group and their coordinated roles in achieving operational success.

The Guest of Honour, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Frederick Asare Kwasi Bekoe emphasised the need for unwavering readiness given the prevailing security dynamics within the West African sub-region.

"Our resolve as a military institution is constantly tested by the security landscape surrounding us. It is therefore crucial that we stand prepared to safeguard Ghana’s territorial integrity at all times" he remarked.

AVM Bekoe praised the personnel involved in the exercise for their professionalism and commended them for the diligent execution of the complex scenarios designed to replicate real-life combat challenges.

The Assistant Commandant Senior Division of the GAFCSC, Air Commodore Thomas Niifio Okai expressed his gratitude to the Military High Command for its continuous support, particularly in providing the logistics necessary for successful training exercises.

Air Commodore Thomas Okai added that the lessons learned from the exercise would enhance the leadership skills and capacities of the students to contribute to national and international peace and security.