Ghana?s naval fleet in bad shape

The Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, Commodore Frank Dalley, has stressed the urgent need to rehabilitate equipment and refit Ghana?s Naval fleet.

Otherwise, he says, the navy?s operations will be crippled.

Commodore Dalley was speaking at an interaction with the parliamentary committee on defence in Sekondi.

Commodore Dalley disclosed that for the past 10 years Ghana naval vessels have not been refitted.

The navy?s equipment has gone without any proper maintenance for years. He said this situation does not auger well for the nation.

According to Commodore Dalley, the naval ships have become too risky for officers and the lives of those who work on these vessels are threatened every day.

He said Ghana?s entire six navy ships and picket boats have serious mechanical and equipment problems because they have exceeded their prescribed lifespan.

He said the Naval Dockyard Complex in Sekondi, which assists in the repairs of ships, has become obsolete and is unable to meet the demands of bigger naval ships.

On his part, Lieutenant Colonel Francis Sanziri, Commander of the 2BN said the forces need modern equipment, communication facilities and a rehabilitation of their barracks.

At the Air force station, Group Captain P. K. Ayisa, Commander of the station, said the runway of the air force, needed urgent rehabilitation to make it meet the increasing demand.

He said the runway would be in constant use during the CAN 2008 tournament and urged the government to do something about the situation.