Ghana Places First Order for Multi-Mission Airbus Helicopters

Why It Matters

The purchase expands Ghana's operational capability across defence and civil missions and strengthens Airbus's foothold in the fast‑growing African aerospace market.

Key Takeaways

• Ghana orders four Airbus helicopters, including two H175Ms.
• H175M will support SAR, EMS, disaster relief missions.
• ACH175 and ACH160 designated for transport roles.
• Deal positions Ghana as West Africa's top Airbus client.
• ACH160 features 68 Airbus‑patented technologies, larger cabin.

Pulse Analysis

Ghana’s latest defence procurement reflects a broader shift among African nations toward modern, multi‑role aviation assets. The Ministry of Defence seeks to enhance rapid‑response capacity for both security operations and humanitarian emergencies, a need amplified by the region’s diverse terrain and frequent natural disasters. By selecting Airbus’s H175M, Ghana aligns with a platform that blends long‑range endurance, substantial payload, and advanced avionics, enabling seamless transition between troop transport, search‑and‑rescue, and medical evacuation missions.

The H175M’s super‑medium class design offers a unique blend of speed, cabin comfort, and operational flexibility, making it suitable for offshore oil‑field support as well as inland disaster relief. Meanwhile, the ACH175 and ACH160 bring corporate‑grade comfort and cutting‑edge technology to Ghana’s transport fleet. The ACH160, boasting 68 patented innovations and a cabin volume 20 % larger than legacy twins, sets a new benchmark for passenger experience and operational efficiency. These helicopters not only expand Ghana’s tactical options but also provide a platform for joint training with regional partners.

For Airbus Helicopters, the Ghana contract signals a strategic foothold in West Africa, a market traditionally dominated by legacy manufacturers. The deal showcases Airbus’s ability to deliver versatile platforms that meet both military and civil requirements, positioning the company for future sales across the continent. As neighboring states observe Ghana’s operational gains, demand for similar high‑performance rotorcraft is likely to rise, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape and accelerating Airbus’s growth trajectory in emerging markets.

Ghana places first order for multi-mission Airbus helicopters

Marignane, France, 15 January 2026 · Image: A black helicopter flies with spinning blades over a desert landscape.

Airbus Helicopters has been awarded a contract by the Ministry of Defence of Ghana for two H175Ms, one ACH175 and one ACH160. The H175Ms will be used as multi‑mission helicopters for transport, search and rescue, emergency medical services and disaster relief. The ACH175 and ACH160 will be operated for transport.

“The commitment from Ghana marks the return of Airbus Helicopters to the country with a defined focus on customer support and partnership,” said Arnaud Montalvo, Head of Africa and Middle East Region for Airbus Helicopters. “We are particularly excited that the H175M will be operated in Ghana, demonstrating the aircraft's versatility across defence and security missions. This key deal also makes Ghana a leading customer in West Africa for our premium corporate helicopters, the ACH160 and ACH175,” he added.

In service since 2014, Airbus’ H175 belongs to the super‑medium class of helicopters, combining long‑range and payload with smooth flight qualities, making it the optimal solution for a wide range of on‑shore and off‑shore mission profiles, including disaster relief, search and rescue, public services and a wide range of military missions, as well as crew change and private and business aviation.

The ACH160 is the latest member of the ACH family and is the world’s most technologically advanced helicopter, with 68 new Airbus‑patented technologies. It provides 20 % greater volume per passenger compared with previous‑generation medium twin helicopters and 35 % larger windows than its competitors, resulting in the brightest cabin in its class.

@AirbusHeli #H175M #ACH175 #ACH160