REVEALED: MAJORITY of SA Air Force in critical condition

In a startling revelation, South Africa’s Minister of Defence (SAAF), Thandi Modise, has disclosed the alarming state of the South African Air Force (SAAF), sparking concerns over the nation’s security.

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REVEALED: MAJORITY OF SA AIR FORCE IN CRITICAL CONDITION

The shocking statistics came to light following a parliamentary question raised by DA Member of Parliament, Kobus Marais, who serves as the DA Shadow Minister of Defence and Military Veterans.

Of the 388 aircraft in the SAAF’s fleet, the figures presented by Minister Modise are nothing short of a national crisis:

• 188 aircraft are grounded or non-serviceable.
• 60 are awaiting major rebuilds.
• 3 have been discontinued due to age.
• 27 are awaiting necessary repairs.
• 6 are currently undergoing repairs.

However, the Minister’s disclosure did not end there.

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A TOTAL OF 85% OF SA AIR FORCE ARE GROUNDED

The most concerning revelation is that only 2 out of the 26 Gripen fighter aircrafts and a mere 3 out of the 24 Hawk aircrafts are available for active duty.

Perhaps the most alarming statistic of all is that a staggering 53% of the SAAF’s aircrafts are grounded due to a lack of spare parts or budget constraints to conduct vital repairs.

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THIS IS DUE TO A LACK OF SPARE PARTS OF BUDGET CONSTRAINTS FOR VIRAL REPAIRS

This crippling statistic means that, in the event of a national security crisis, over half of the air force’s fleet cannot be deployed to safeguard the country.

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“The DA firmly believes that the ANC government’s mismanagement, lack of political will, and neglect have severely compromised the South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF) combat capabilities.

“Our nation’s combat readiness has deteriorated to the point where it is no longer a mere concern; it has escalated into a national crisis. In an increasingly dangerous world, the diminishing strength of our military capability poses a severe risk to our national security.”

Kobus Marais

SAAF’S COMBAT AIRCRAFT ARE AMONG THE WORST AFFECTED

Marais said it is particularly distressing to note that the SAAF’s combat aircraft, including the Oryx, Rooivalk attack helicopters, BK 117 helicopter, and the LUH 109, are among the worst affected in terms of active duty.