GHANA NAVY SPECIAL BOAT SQUADRON LAUNCHES 10TH ANNIVERSARY

The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) the Eastern Naval Command (ENC), Commodore Raymond Kyaano, has officially launched the 10th anniversary celebration of the Ghana Navy Special Boat Squadron (SBS) at the Eastern Naval Command on Tuesday 20 October 2026. 

The ceremony marked a decade of the squadron’s growth in specialised maritime operations, national security and the protection of Ghana’s maritime domain. Established in 2016, the unit was formed to strengthen the Navy’s capacity to respond to emerging and unconventional security threats. The anniversary launch featured capability displays and tactical demonstrations that showcased the squadron’s specialised training and operational readiness. The SBS undertakes missions including special reconnaissance, maritime interdiction, vessel boarding, search and seizure, counter-terrorism, riverine operations, personnel recovery and the protection of vital installations.

Delivering the anniversary address, Commodore Kyaano highlighted the strategic importance of Ghana’s maritime environment to national security, economic development and regional stability. He noted that threats such as piracy, armed robbery at sea, transnational organised crime and attacks on critical maritime infrastructure demand specialised skills, operational readiness and sound professional judgment. He commended past and present personnel for their discipline and commitment. He however urged personnel to use the anniversary to renew their dedication to excellence, innovation and service to the nation.

Commodore Kyaano also acknowledged the contributions of international defence partners, including the Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service, US Marine Forces Africa and the Danish Frogman Corps, to the squadron’s training and capability development. He said sustained cooperation and professional exchanges had strengthened the unit’s growth and preparedness to address evolving security challenges. He urged personnel to uphold military professionalism, teamwork and compliance with applicable laws and rules governing military operations.

The Commanding Officer of the Special Boat Squadron, Lieutenant Commander Ishmael Agomna, traced the unit’s origins, recalling that four Ghanaian naval personnel, including himself, returned from Nigeria after studying the operations of the Nigerian Navy’s special boat unit to help establish Ghana’s maritime special operations capability.

He acknowledged the sacrifices, challenges and personal commitments involved in building the squadron over the past decade, and expressed appreciation to successive naval leadership, instructors, operators, support staff and international partners. He called for greater innovation, unity and collective responsibility as the squadron pursues its future operational objectives.

Story by: Sarah Ofori Dei Appiah

Pictures by: Cpl Kyerewurah Louis and L/ Cpl Danso Alidu