Students from the Artillery Young Officers Course, Technical Assistance Course, and Artillery Basic Course recently visited the Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC) in Nutekpor, Ghana. The October 2, 2026, visit was part of their professional development, aiming to deepen their understanding of naval fire support and joint military operations. The students gained practical insight into the capabilities, systems, and operational procedures of the Ghana Navy.
A key component of the engagement was a lecture on "Introduction to Naval Gunfire Support and its Integration in Joint Operations," delivered by Lieutenant Commander Kwame Ofori-Boateng. As Second-in-Command of the School of Maritime Operations (SMOPS), he introduced the students to naval gunfire support fundamentals and its application in joint operations. The lecture emphasized coordination among Services to achieve operational objectives.
The visit provided artillery students with an appreciation of how naval fire support capabilities complement land-based military operations. This is particularly important in operational environments requiring effective coordination between maritime and land forces. The students were received at the SMOPS Auditorium by the Second-in-Command of SMOPS.
Naval Captain Michael Cudjoe, Commanding Officer of SMOPS, welcomed the delegation and briefed them on the programme and facilities scheduled for the visit. The delegation toured the Lillie May Didreksen Simulation Centre, where they were introduced to simulation-based training capabilities. These capabilities create realistic and controlled environments for personnel to develop operational and decision-making skills.
The students also visited the Ship-in-a-Box facility, where they were taken through the training environment and systems designed to facilitate practical naval instruction. This enhanced the preparedness of personnel for operational duties. The visit enabled students to relate their artillery training to broader military operations.
The educational visit highlighted the importance of inter-Service training, professional exchanges, and exposure to modern military training systems. These aspects strengthen operational coordination, interoperability, and joint-force preparedness. The students gained a better appreciation of the complementary capabilities of the Ghana Armed Forces' Services in conducting joint operations.
The visit was organized by the Artillery Training School as part of the students' professional development. It formed part of the school's efforts to provide students with practical insights into various aspects of military operations. The Ghana News Agency was informed that the visit was a success.
Key points
- The visit provided artillery students with practical insight into naval fire support and joint military operations.
- A lecture on naval gunfire support was delivered by Lieutenant Commander Kwame Ofori-Boateng.
- The visit highlighted the importance of inter-Service training and exposure to modern military training systems.
