The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has further strengthened its capabilities with the addition of a Tecnam P2012 aircraft valued at $711.6 million (€2.9 million).
The aircraft was commissioned on Thursday evening at the GDF hangar at Eugene F. Correia International Airport. President Dr. Irfaan Ali described the acquisition as a significant investment.
He highlighted that this is a reflection of the government’s commitment to building a modern and capable air force.
“Today [Thursday] is more than just showcasing the acquisition of a sleek aviation asset; it is a signal that the Air Corps continues to soar, continues to be stronger, and continues to be smarter. It attests to our intentions to build a more agile, better-equipped defence force,” the President said.
The Tecnam P2012 was selected for its ability to navigate challenging skies as well as its capability to land on narrow airstrips throughout the hinterland.
It will provide humanitarian assistance to hinterland communities when needed.
“When we chose this type of aircraft, it was not because it looked pretty. We chose it because it could perform because it could get in and out of those tight hinterland strips, and because it could serve as a true multi-role platform for military operations and humanitarian assistance,” the Head of State told the gathering.
According to Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Omar Khan, this is the sixth aircraft added to the army’s fleet since 2020.
Over the past five years, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) administration has invested significantly in strengthening the GDF’s capabilities.
