GDF Air Corps boosted with new aircraft

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has made a significant advancement in its Air Corps’ recapitalisation and modernisation programme with the acquisition of a new Tecnam P2012 STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft.

The army said a senior delegation recently returned from Italy, where they conducted the final inspection and acceptance of the aircraft.

The team was led by Colonel Administration and Quartering, Commander Roger Nurse, and included the Commanding Officer of the Air Corps, Lieutenant Colonel Julian Archer, Maintenance Officer Lieutenant Colonel Damon Joseph, and Chief Pilot Major Lloyden Layne.

During the visit, the officers thoroughly examined the aircraft’s technical records, inspected all systems, and observed ground and in-flight demonstrations.

All aspects of the aircraft’s performance met the required standards, following which an aircraft acceptance agreement was signed, marking the GDF’s formal acceptance of the asset.

This acquisition, the GDF said, represents a key part of its ongoing commitment to expanding operational reach, especially in remote and underserved regions of Guyana.

The Tecnam P2012 STOL’s capability for short-field operations makes it particularly well-suited to the country’s geographic demands.

“As part of the integration process, engineer training is currently underway, to be followed by pilot training. Upon completion, the aircraft will be delivered to Guyana and inducted into active service with the Air Corps,” the GDF said.

According to the GDF, this development reflects its strategic focus on maintaining a modern, capable, and responsive Air Corps, one that supports national security, humanitarian response, and development initiatives while ensuring aviation assets remain current, effective, and mission-ready.

Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, briefing the media on the current state of events at the Guyana-Venezuela border