Story by Warrant Officer Class 1 Amoah Noel King
Pictures by Corporal Osei Ansh

Flight Cadets of Regular Career Course 65 (RCC 65) have commenced a five-day training exercise dubbed Exercise Thunderbolt 2026 at Air Force Base Accra. The exercise, which runs from Monday, 3 August to Friday, 7 August 2026, is designed to expose the cadets to the operational environment of the Ghana Air Force and prepare them for their future roles as officers.

The exercise is intended to provide the cadets with first-hand experience of the day-to-day operations of the Ghana Air Force while giving them valuable insight into the Service's organisational structure, operational capabilities and strategic role in safeguarding the nation.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Commanding Officer of Number 4 Strike and Reconnaissance Wing, Wing Commander Frank Ato Mills, described the exercise as an integral component of the cadets' professional development and training curriculum.

He urged the cadets to approach every aspect of the exercise with dedication and a long-term career mindset, stressing that the knowledge and experience gained would have a lasting impact on their future service.

"What you learn here will shape your career. Although it may appear to be just another training visit, I encourage you to take every activity seriously and make the most of this opportunity," he said.

Wing Commander Mills further emphasised the importance of familiarising themselves with the structure, responsibilities and operations of Air Force Base Accra, noting that they would eventually serve within the same operational environment upon commissioning into the Ghana Air Force.

As part of Exercise Thunderbolt 2026, the cadets are undertaking educational visits to key formations and departments, including the Flying Group, Communications and Operations Wing, Supply Wing, Engineering Wing and Administration Wing, where they are receiving practical briefings on the roles and responsibilities of each unit.