The Government has pledged a comprehensive retooling and modernisation of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) to enhance its operational effectiveness and preparedness in the face of evolving global and regional security challenges.
The modernisation initiative, which will be rolled out fully next year, represents one of the most ambitious reforms in the history of the GAF.
The Deputy Minister for Defence, Ernest Brogya Genfi, made the announcement at the 2025 Land Combat Fire Power Demonstration (LCFPD) held at the Battle Training Camp, Bundase, last Friday(October 31)
Demonstration
The event, a major highlight on the Armed Forces’ annual training calendar, was organised by the Southern Command for students of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), Senior Division Course 47.
It was aimed at bridging the gap between theory and practice in tactical operations and strengthening coordination among the Army, Navy and Air Force.
The exercise was led by 1 Infantry Battalion and supported by 2 and 5 Infantry Battalions, 66 Artillery Regiment, 153 Armoured Regiment, 48 Engineer Regiment, 81 Signal Regiment, and the Ghana Army Special Operations Brigade, with the Navy and Air Force providing joint operational support.
It attracted high-level military officers, the Chief of the Defence Staff of the GAF, Lieutenant General William Agyapong; the Chief of the Army Staff, Major General Lawrence Kwaku Gbetanu; the General Officer Commanding Southern Command, Brigadier General Isaac Nicholas Paintsil; General Officer Commanding Northern Command, Brigadier General Worlanyo Agbebo; Brigadier General Jackson Wonje, the Commandant of the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), Brigadier General Cornelius Komla Lithur, Commandant Ghana Military Academy (GMA); the Executive Director, Veterans Administration Ghana, Brigadier General Seidu Adams (Rtd); defence attaches, and guests from partner countries, reflecting Ghana’s growing role in regional peace and security.
A new feature at this year’s event was the multi-domain battle simulation designed to test the GAF's ability to plan and execute complex joint operations under realistic battlefield conditions.
The fictional scenario involved defending Ghana’s eastern frontier through coordinated land, sea, air, cyber and space operations.
Initiative
The deputy defence minister explained that the army would focus on the establishment of new units, forward operating bases and the upgrading of existing infrastructure to improve efficiency and response capacity.
“The Ghana Armed Forces shall undergo a retooling and modernisation drive, the likes of which have never been witnessed in our history,” he stated, adding that the government would sustain the programme throughout the administration of President Mahama.
Mr Genfi noted that the retooling effort had already commenced with the acquisition of modern communication systems and advanced technologies aimed at strengthening the Armed Forces’ operational capabilities.
Mr Genfi observed that the participation of officers from six African countries in this year’s demonstration reflected Ghana’s enduring commitment to regional peace, stability, and security in line with the African Union’s vision for cohesive and operational standby forces.
Professionalism, readiness
While lauding the GAF for their professionalism, discipline, and dedication, which continued to earn Ghana international respect, particularly in peacekeeping operations, he stressed the need for all personnel to uphold the highest standards of conduct and respect for the rule of law, stressing that any act that tarnished the image of the Armed Forces would be dealt with decisively in accordance with military regulations and the laws of the republic.
The General Officer Commanding Southern Command, Brigadier General Isaac Nicholas Paintsil, in his welcoming address, said the exercise validated the GAF’s preparedness to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while remaining agile and mission-ready to address emerging regional security threats.
