-more than 1,200 ranks trained in 2025

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is accelerating its transformation into a modern, smart and resilient military, supported by strategic investments, expanded partnerships and enhanced training.

Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, made this known while delivering remarks on Thursday at the opening of the Annual Officers’ Conference 2026 at Base Camp Ayanganna.

Reflecting on a demanding 2025, Brigadier Khan reported significant progress in operational readiness, air and maritime capability, disaster response and regional cooperation. He also reaffirmed that the defence of Guyana’s territorial integrity remains non-negotiable amid a rapidly evolving regional and global security environment.

The conference, which will continue over a two-day period, brings officers together to assess performance, receive strategic guidance from President Dr. Irfaan Ali and chart operational priorities for the year ahead.

Now in its 60th year of service, Brigadier Khan stated that the Force has continued to grow, develop and, most recently, evolve to confront new threats in a changing security landscape. Understanding and preparing for this environment, he said, remains a major objective of the GDF.

As Brigadier Khan explained, the GDF is bolstering its capabilities through the acquisition of new tactical equipment slated for delivery throughout the year.

The GDF expects the addition of two fixed-wing aircraft within the next quarter. Additionally, Coast Guard ranks can look forward to the completion of a 600-foot wharf later this year. This wharf is intended to accommodate the Force’s largest ocean patrol vessel, which is scheduled to arrive in the third quarter.

Further, Brigadier Khan disclosed that the Force recently conducted river trials of newly built tactical river boats, with the vessels expected to be delivered before the end of the month. Without divulging operational details, he also noted that drilling operations are being expanded to support drone troops wherever they are deployed, while the acquisition of other strategic assets remains ongoing.

Human resource development also remains a priority, with more than 1,200 ranks having undergone training in the past year.

According to Brigadier Khan, this has strengthened not only individual competencies but also the Force’s collective capacity, improving strategic planning and operational effectiveness.

“We sustain initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of the rank-and-file, recognising that morale, welfare and operational effectiveness are inseparable and fundamental to readiness. This continues to be a constant focus across the Force, which is why heavy emphasis remains on training. For 2025, over 1,200 force members underwent training in various skills,” he said.

As a result, several ranks achieved academic milestones, including a junior rank earning an associate degree and a serving officer at the rank of major successfully completing doctoral studies in management.

Looking back at 2025, Brigadier Khan highlighted the Force’s achievements both locally and regionally. He cited last year’s elections and the collaboration with the Guyana Police Force as a major milestone, describing it as “the safest and most secure environment since our independence for the conduct of Guyana’s national and regional elections.” This, he said, reinforced the GDF’s role in defending both democracy and country.

On the regional front, the Chief of Defence Staff pointed to humanitarian operations carried out by the GDF, noting, “In keeping with our responsibilities, in 2025 we also provided timely support to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, following similar assistance to Grenada after Hurricane Beryl. Currently, we are in Jamaica, contributing personnel and expertise to relief and recovery efforts alongside other regional partners following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.”

These engagements, he added, strengthened both the Force and Guyana’s regional relationships.

Reaffirming the GDF’s mandate to protect democracy and address threats on all fronts, Brigadier Khan said the Force remains steadfast in guarding Guyana’s borders.

Referencing ongoing global conflicts and regional tensions and their impact on established norms, he emphasised that ranks will continue to defend Guyana’s borders regardless of challenges. “Through one particular lens, we continue to assess recent developments in Venezuela. And I must say, regardless of any opportunities such developments may present, we will and must continue to stand guard,” Khan stated.

Looking ahead, he said the Force’s focus will remain on modernisation and adaptability, key themes developed and emphasised by President Ali, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

Under this leadership and through continued effort, Brigadier Khan expressed confidence that the Guyana Defence Force will continue to safeguard the nation’s people, democracy and borders.