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“If the need arises, Guyana will defend its territory” – PM Phillips says
– as GDF commissions two new helicopters
(Kaieteur News) – Prime Minister (PM) Retired Brigidaier Mark Phillips on Saturday said that Guyana will defend itself if the need arises. He was at the time speaking at the commissioning ceremony for two new helicopters – Bell 407 and Bell 429- at the Guyana Defence Force Hangar at Eugene F. Correria International Airport, Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD).
The Prime Minister, who spoke on behalf of President Irfaan Ali, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Guyana’s national security, while protecting its sovereignty, and enhancing disaster-response capabilities.
According to the Department of Public Information (DPI) Phillips noted that the acquisition of the new helicopters is a reflection of deliberate and strategic investments into the modernization of the Defence Force which is in keeping with Guyana’s responsibility as a sovereign state.
The newly commissioned helicopters.
“With sovereignty comes responsibility…the most solemn of these responsibilities is the obligation to safeguard our national sovereignty and preserve, protect and defend our territorial integrity. That duty must be supported by sustained investment in our Defence Force,” Phillips said.
Acquired for $US10.1M the Bell 429 helicopter, has the capacity to seat two crew members and six passengers, with a payload capacity of 2,700 pounds, and its maximum cruise speed at 150 knots. Designed for multi-purpose roles the aircraft can be used for surveillance, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and rapid response missions.
The other aircraft, the Bell 407 helicopter, which was purchased for US$5.9 million, has the capacity to seat one crew member and six passengers, with a payload capacity of 2,300 pounds, and a maximum speed of 133 knots. This platform enhances the GDF’s ability to conduct patrols, logistical support, and operations in remote and challenging terrain.
The PM reminded that the aircraft will significantly improve the GDF’s operational reach, its responsiveness, and flexibility, allow the supporting of border patrols, aerial surveillance, search and rescue operations, disaster response, medical evacuations, and logistical support to hinterland and riverain communities.
The last five years saw the government increasing its budgetary allocations to the GDF, taking it from $13.9 billion in 2019 to $50.4 billion in 2025 which is equivalent to more than three-and-a-half times. Additionally, capital expenditure within the Defence Force has expanded substantially, enabling the acquisition of modern aircraft, vessels, vehicles, and advanced technology.
“Capital investment is where modernisation lives. It is through these investments that we fundamentally expand what the Defence Force is capable of doing,” the PM said.
He also highlighted that the government’s focus on integrating advanced surveillance systems, drone technology, and modern training, ensuring that modernisation is not limited to equipment but is embedded throughout the Force.
Phillips reaffirmed Guyana’s foreign policy posture, emphasizing that the country remains committed to peace, cooperation, and respect for international law, while maintaining the capability to defend its territory.
“Peacefulness is not passivity, and restraint is not weakness,” he said. “If the need arises, Guyana will defend its territory.”
He expressed gratitude to the government of the United States of America (U.S), the U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot, and technical teams whose cooperation facilitated the acquisition of the aircraft, noting that the purchase reflects the strong partnership between the two countries.
“May these aircraft extend the protective reach of the state, save lives in times of need, and stand as symbols of a nation determined to secure its present and safeguard its future,” the Prime Minister said.
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