TheSouth African Air Force (SAAF) is theair warfare branch ofSouth African National Defence Force, with its headquarters inPretoria. The South African Air Force was established on 1 February 1920. The Air Force saw service inWorld War II and theKorean War. From 1966, the SAAF was involved in providing infantry support in the low-intensityBorder War inAngola,South-West Africa andRhodesia. As the war progressed, the intensity of air operations increased, until in the late 1980s when the SAAF were compelled to fly fighter missions against Angolan aircraft in order to maintain tactical air superiority. On conclusion of the Border War in 1990, aircraft numbers were severely reduced due to economic pressures as well as the cessation of hostilities with neighbouring states.
After a visit to observe the 1912 military manoeuvres in Europe, Brig. Gen.C.F. Beyers (who was then Commandant-General of the Defence Force) gave an extremely positive report on the future use of aircraft for military purposes toGeneral Smuts. Smuts initiated an arrangement with private fliers in the Cape and established a flying school[3] at Alexandersfontein[a] near Kimberley, known as the Paterson Aviation Syndicate School, to train pilots for the proposed South African Aviation Corps.[4] Flying training commenced in 1913 with students who excelled on the course being sent to theCentral Flying School atUpavon inGreat Britain for further training. The first South African military pilot qualified on 2 June 1914.[5]
On the outbreak of theFirst World War, the Union Defence Force had realised the urgent need for air support which brought about the establishment of the South African Aviation Corps (SAAC) on 29 January 1915.[5] Aircraft were purchased from France (Henri Farman F-27) while the building of an airfield atWalvis Bay commenced in earnest in order to support operations against German forces inGerman South West Africa.[6] By June 1915 the SAAC was deployed to its first operational airfield at Karibib in German South West Africa in support of Gen. Botha's South African ground forces. The SAAC flew reconnaissance and leaflet dropping missions fromKaribib and later fromOmaruru, where improvised bombing missions were added when pilots started dropping hand grenades and rudimentary bombs by hand.[7] On 9 July 1915, the German forces capitulated and most of the pilots and aircraft of the SAAC were sent to Britain in support of the Imperial war effort.
Although the SAAC remained active, its activities were limited to ground training at the Cape Town Drill Hall, while the pilots who had been detached to theRoyal Flying Corps (RFC) were grouped to formNo. 26 Squadron RFC and later becoming an independent squadron on 8 October 1915. No. 26 Squadron was equipped with Henri Farman F-27's andB.E.2c's and was shipped to Kenya in support of the war effort inGerman East Africa, landing in Mombasa on 31 January 1916.[8] The squadron flew reconnaissance and observer missions throughout the campaign until February 1918[9] when the squadron returned to the UK via Cape Town and arrived at Blandford Camp on 8 July 1918 and was disbanded the same day.[10] While the SAAC were engaged in German South West Africa and 26 Sqdn RFC in East Africa, many South Africans traveled to the United Kingdom to enlist with the Royal Flying Corps.[11] The number of South Africans in the RFC eventually reached approximately 3,000 men and suffered 260 active-duty fatalities over theSomme during the war. Forty-six pilots becamefighter aces.[12][13]
On conclusion of the First World War, the British Government donated surplus aircraft plus spares and sufficient equipment to provide the nucleus of a fledgling air force to each of itsDominions. As part of this donation, which was to become known as theImperial Gift,[14] South Africa received a total of 113 aircraft from both the British Government (100 aircraft) as well as from other sources (13 aircraft).[14][b]
On 1 February 1920 ColonelPierre van Ryneveld was appointed as the Director Air Service with the task of forming an air force, the date is used to mark the founding of the South African Air Force. In December 1920 the South African National insignia was added to aircraft for the first time. An Orange, Green, Red and Blueroundel was added to anAvro 504K for trial purposes but the colours were found to be unsuitable and were replaced with a Green, Red, Lemon, Yellow and Blue roundel in December 1921. These colours remained until 1927 when they were replaced with the Orange, White and Blue roundels.[15]
The first operational deployment of the newly formed Air Force was to quell internal dissent, when in 1922 aminer's strike on the Johannesburg gold mines turned violent and led to the declaration of martial law. 1 Squadron was called to fly reconnaissance missions and to bombard the strikers' positions. Sorties in support of the police amounted to 127 flight hours between 10 and 15 March and this inauspicious start for the SAAF led to two pilot losses, two wounded and two aircraft lost to ground fire.[16] The SAAF was again deployed to suppress theBondelzwart Rebellion atKalkfontein between 29 May and 3 July 1922.[17]
At the outbreak of theSecond World War, South Africa had no naval vessels and the UDF's first priority was to ensure the safety of the South African coastal waters as well as the strategically important Cape sea-route. For maritime patrol operations, the SAAF took over all 29 passenger aircraft ofSouth African Airways: 18Junkers Ju 86Z-ls for maritime patrols and elevenJunkers Ju 52s for transport purposes.[18] SAAF maritime patrols commenced on 21 September 1939 with16 Squadron flying three JU-86Z's from Walvis Bay.[19] had been established, eventually consisting of6,10,22,23,25,27 and29 Squadrons.[20]
By the end of the Second World War in August 1945, SAAF aircraft (in conjunction with British and Dutch aircraft stationed in South Africa) had intercepted 17 enemy ships, assisted in the rescue of 437 survivors of sunken ships, attacked 26 of the 36 enemy submarines that operated around the South African coast, and flown 15,000 coastal patrol sorties.[18]
In December 1939,The Duke of Aosta had sent a report toMussolini recording the state of chronic unpreparedness of the Allied Forces inEast Africa. The collapse ofFrance in 1940 had prompted Mussolini to join the war on the side of the Axis and as a result, air force elements were moved to forward positions in occupied Ethiopia to mount air attacks on Allied forces before they could be re-inforced.[21] These deployments prompted Allied action and on 13 May 1940,1 Squadron pilots were sent toCairo to take delivery of 18Gloster Gladiators and to fly them south to Kenya, for operations inEast Africa.11 Squadron, equipped withHawker Hartebeests, followed toNairobi on 19 May 1940 and were joined by theJunkers Ju 86s of12 Squadron on 22 May 1940.[21]
TheKingdom of Italy declared war on 10 June 1940 and on the following day, the Ju 86s of 12 Squadron led the first air attack by the SAAF in the Second World War.[21] During the campaign, numerous SAAF aircraft were involved in air combat with the ItalianRegia Aeronautica and provided air support to South African and Allied forces in the ground war. By December 1940, ten SAAF squadrons plus 34 Flight, with a total of 94 aircraft, were operational in East Africa (1 Squadron,2 Squadron,3 Squadron, 11 Squadron,12 Squadron,14 Squadron,40 Squadron,41 Squadron,50 Squadron and60 Squadron).[22] During this campaign, the SAAF formed a Close Support Flight of four Gladiators and four Hartebeests, with an autonomous air force commander operating with the land forces. This was the precursor of theDesert Air Force/Tactical Air Force "cab-rank" technique which were used extensively for close air support during 1943–1945.[23] The last air combat took place on 29 October and the Italian forces surrendered on 27 November 1941. A reduced SAAF presence was maintained in East Africa for coastal patrols until May 1943.[24]
SAAF fighter, bomber, and reconnaissance squadrons played a key role in the Western Desert and North African campaigns from 1941 to 1943.[16] One memorable feat was theBoston bombers of 12 and 24 Squadrons dropping hundreds of tons of bombs onAxis forces pushing theEighth Army back towards Egypt during the"Gazala Gallop" in mid-1942.[16] SAAF bombers continually harassed retreating forces towards the Tunisian border after theSecond Battle of El Alamein; the South African fighters of No. 223 Wing RAF helped theDesert Air Force gain air superiority over Axis air forces.[16] Between April 1941 and May 1943, the eleven SAAF squadrons[c] flew 33,991 sorties and destroyed 342 enemy aircraft.[16]
Conditions were however not ideal and pilots and crew were required to operate under critical conditions at times. Pilots were frequently sent home to the Union after gaining experience and did not return for many months, after which conditions in the desert had changed significantly and they were required to regain experience on different aircraft, different tactics and operations from different bases. There were cases where experienced fighter pilots were sent back to the Western Desert as bomber pilots for their second tour – compounding the lack of continuity and experience.[26] The South Africans did however command the respect of their German adversaries.[27]
The South Africans had the distinction of dropping the first and last bombs in the African conflict – the first being on 11 June 1940 on Moyale in Ethiopia and the last being on the Italian 1st Army in Tunisia.[28] The SAAF also produced a number ofSAAF Second World War air aces in the process, includingJohn Frost andMarmaduke Pattle.[29]
In fear of Japanese occupation and subsequent operations in the Indian Ocean in close proximity to South African sea lanes,Field Marshal Smuts encouraged the preemptive Allied occupation of the island ofMadagascar.[30] After much debate and further encouragement byGeneral de Gaulle (who was urging for aFree French operation against Madagascar), Churchill and the Chiefs of Staff agreed to an invasion by means of a strong fleet and adequate air support.[31] In March and April 1942, the SAAF had been conducting reconnaissance flights over Diego-Suarez and 32, 36 and 37 Coastal Flights[d] were withdrawn from South African maritime patrol operations and sent toLindi on the Indian Ocean coast ofTanzania, with an additional elevenBristol Beauforts and sixMartin Marylands to provide ongoing reconnaissance and close air support for the planned operation – to be known asOperation Ironclad.[33]
During the amphibious / air assault carried out by theRoyal Navy and Air Force on 5 May, the Vichy French Air Force consisting mainly of Morane fighters and Potez bombers had attacked the Allied fleet but had been neutralised by theFleet Air Arm aircraft from the two aircraft carriers. Those remaining aircraft not destroyed were withdrawn by the French and flown south to other airfields on the island.[32] Once the main airfield at Arrachart aerodrome inDiego-Suarez had been secured (13 May 1942), the SAAF Air Component flew from Lindi to Arrachart. The air component consisted of thirty-four aircraft (6 Marylands, 11 Beaufort Bombers, 12Lockheed Lodestars and 6Ju 52's transports).[32] By September 1942, the South African ground forces committed toIronclad had been party to the capturing the southern half of Madagascar as well as the small island of Nossi Be with the SAAF air component supporting these operations. During the campaign which ended with an armistice on 4 November 1942, SAAF aircraft flew a total of 401 sorties with one pilot killed in action, one killed in an accident and one succumbing to disease. Seven aircraft were lost, only one as a result of enemy action.[34]
By the end of May 1943, the SAAF had two Wings and sixteen squadrons in the Middle East and North Africa with 8,000 men. With the end of the North African campaign, the SAAF role underwent change – becoming more active in fighter bomber, bomber and PR operations as opposed to the fighter role performed in the desert.[35]
Five SAAF squadrons were designated to support the July 1943 invasion of Sicily –1 Squadron operated combat air patrols over the beaches for theOperation Husky landings[35] while2,[36]4[37] and5[38] Squadrons provided fighter bomber support during the Sicilian campaign.30 Squadron (flying asNo. 223 Squadron RAF during the campaign) provided light bomber support from Malta[39] and60 Squadron was responsible for photo reconnaissance flights in support of all Allied forces on the island.[40] After successfully invading the island, a further three squadrons were moved to Sicily and the eight squadrons on the island were tasked with supporting the invasion of Italy: 12 and 24 Squadrons were responsible for medium bomber missions to "soften up" the enemy prior to the invasion while 40 Sqn was responsible for tactical photo-reconnaissance. 1 Squadron provided fighter cover for the 3 September 1943 landings while 2 and 4 Squadrons were responsible for bomber escort.[35]
The South African Air Force participated in the Allied campaigns in the following theaters:
The Mobile Air Force Depot (MAFD) was based inPretoria. Its role during theSecond World War was as a location where Air Crew could be stationed, on stand-by, prior to being posted to a more active squadron.
Post-war, the SAAF also took part in theBerlin airlift of 1948 with 20 aircrews flyingRoyal Air ForceDakotas. 4,133 tons of supplies were carried in 1,240 missions flown.[41]
At the outbreak of theKorean War, theUnited Nations Security Council passed a resolution calling for the withdrawal of North Korean forces inSouth Korea. A request was also made to all UN members for assistance. After a special Cabinet meeting on 20 July 1950 the Union Government announced that due to the long distance between South Africa and Korea, direct ground-based military participation in the conflict was impractical and unrealistic but that a SAAF fighter squadron would be made available to the UN effort. The 50 officers and 157 other ranks of 2 Sqn[42] SAAF sailed from Durban on 26 September 1950 – they had been selected from 1,426 members of the Permanent Force who had initially volunteered for service. This initial contingent was commanded by CmdtS. van Breda TheronDSO, DFC, AFC and included many World War II SAAF veterans.[43] The squadron was moved toJohnson Air Base near Tokyo on 25 September 1950 for conversion training on theF-51D Mustangs supplied by the US Air Force.[44]
On completion of conversion training, the squadron was deployed as one of the four USAF18th Fighter-Bomber Wing squadrons[44] and on 16 November 1950 an advance detachment consisting of 13 officers and 21 other ranks (including the Squadron Commander and his four Flight Commanders who made the crossing in their own F-51D Mustangs) left Japan forPusan East (K-9) Air Base within thePusan Perimeter in Korea to fly with the USAF pilots in order to familiarise themselves with the local operational conditions.[43] On the morning of 19 November 1950, Cmdt Theron and Capt G.B. Lipawsky took off with two USAF pilots to fly the first SAAF combat sorties of the Korean War from K-9 andK-24 airfields at Pyongyang.[43]
On 30 November the squadron was moved further south toK-13 airfield due to North Korean and Chinese advances. It was again moved even further south after the UN forces lost additional ground to the North Koreans toK-10 airfield situated on the coast close to the town of Chinhae. This was to be the squadron's permanent base for the duration of their first Korean deployment. During this period (while equipped with F-51D Mustangs) the squadron flew 10,373 sorties and lost 74 aircraft out of the total 95 allocated. Twelve pilots were killed in action, 30 missing and four wounded.[44]
In January 1953 the squadron returned to Japan for conversion to the USAFF-86F Sabre fighter-bombers. The first Sabre mission was flown on 16 March 1953 from theK-55 airfield in South Korea, being the first SAAF jet mission flown. 2 squadron was led by ace pilot, Major Jean de Wet from AFB Langebaanweg. The squadron was tasked with fighter sweeps along the Yalu and Chong-Chong rivers as well as close air support attack missions. The squadron flew 2,032 sorties in the Sabres losing four out of the 22 aircraft supplied.[44]
The war ended on 27 July 1953, when theKorean Armistice Agreement was signed. During the first phase of the war, the main task of the squadron Mustangs was the interdiction of enemy supply routes which not only accounted for approximately 61.45% of SAAF combat sorties, but which reached an early peak from January to May 1951 (78% and 82%). A typical interdiction mission was an armed reconnaissance patrol usually undertaken by flights of two or four aircraft armed with two napalm bombs, 127 mm rockets and 12.7 mm machine guns.[43] Later, after the introduction of the Sabres, the squadron was also called on to provide counter-air missions flying as fighter sweeps and interceptions against MiG-15's, but interdiction and close air support remained the primary mission.[43] Losses were 34 SAAF pilots killed, eight taken prisoner (including the future Chief of the Air Force, General D Earp) with 74 Mustangs and 4 Sabres lost.[44] Pilots and men of the squadron received a total of 797 medals including 2Silver Stars, the highest US military award given to foreigners, 3Legions of Merit, 55Distinguished Flying Crosses and 40Bronze Stars.[45] In recognition of their association with 2 Squadron, the OC of 18th Fighter-Bomber Wing issued a policy directive "that all retreat ceremonies shall be preceded by the introductory bars of the South African national anthem. All personnel will render the honour to this anthem as our own."[44]
On conclusion of hostilities, the Sabres were returned to the USAF and the squadron returned to South Africa in October 1953. During this period, the Union Defence Forces were reorganised into individual services and the SAAF became an arm of service in its own right, under an Air Chief of Staff (who was renamed "Chief of the Air Force" in 1966). It adopted a blue uniform, to replace the army khaki it had previously worn.
The SAAF loaned aircraft and flew occasional covert reconnaissance, transport and combat sorties in support of theRoyal Rhodesian Air Force (RRAF; renamed in 1970 as the Rhodesian Air Force (RhAF)) and the rest of theRhodesian Security Forces from 1966 onwards. Notable operations includedOperation Uric andOperation Vanity in 1979.
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From 1966 to 1989, the SAAF was committed to theBorder War, which was fought in northernSouth West Africa and surrounding states. At first, it provided limited air support to police operations against thePeople's Liberation Army of Namibia (the military wing ofSWAPO, which was fighting to end South African rule of South West Africa). Operations intensified after the defence force took charge of the war in 1974. In July 1964, South Africa placed a development contract withThomson-CSF for a mobile, all-weather, low-altitude SAM system after a South African order for theBloodhound SAM system was refused by the UK government.[46] This became theCrotale, or 'Cactus' in South African service. The South African government paid 85 per cent of the development costs of the system with the balance being paid for by France. The system was in service with120 Squadron SAAF from 1970 until the late 1980s without any successful combat shootdowns.[47]
The SAAF provided air support to the army during the 1975–76Angola campaign, and in the manycross-border operations that were carried out against PLAN bases in Angola andZambia from 1977 onwards.
During the bush war period, South Africa manufactured six air-deliverable tactical nuclear weapons of the "gun-type" design between 1978 and 1993. Each of the devices contained 55 kilograms ofHEU with an estimated yield of 10–18 kilotons[48] designed for delivery byBlackburn Buccaneer orEnglish Electric Canberra aircraft. SeeHistory of the South African Air Force#Nuclear and ballistic weapons.
At least twoMIG-21s of theAngolan Air Force were shot down by3 Squadron SAAFMirage F1s in 1981 and 1982.[49]
From 1980 to 1984, the command structure was reorganised. Instead of units of the separate Strike Command,Transportation Command SAAF, andMaritime Air Command SAAF often being based at the same base but responsible to different chains of command, regional commands were established.Main Threat Air Command (MTAC) was made responsible for the northern half of the country, andSouthern Air Command SAAF andWestern Air Command SAAF for those areas. MTAC was co-located with the Air Force Command Post atPretoria, with 20 subordinate squadrons (8 reserve). Southern Air Command atSilvermine was allocated nine squadrons (three reserve), based atAFS Port Elizabeth,Cape Town Airport, andAFB Ysterplaat, including 16 Squadron SAAF (Alouettes), 25 Squadron flying Dakotas from Ysterplaat, 27 Squadron SAAF (Piaggio 166), 35 Squadron SAAF (Avro Shackleton), and88 Maritime Training School.[50] Western Air Command atWindhoek relied on aircraft temporarily detached from MTAC and SAC.Airspace Control Command, Training Command and Air Logistics Command remained largely unchanged.
The SAAF was also heavily involved in the 1987–88 Angola campaign, before theNew York Accords that ended the conflict. The internationalarms embargo imposed against the then-apartheid government of South Africa, meant that the SAAF was unable to procure modernfighter aircraft to compete with the sophisticated Soviet-supplied air defence network andCubanMikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23s fielded in the latter part of this conflict. South Africa was able to secure the transfer of technology from Israel through theIsrael–South Africa Agreement, thereby allowing the Cheetah derivative of theIAI Kfir to be produced.
From 1990 with the perceived reduction in threat, SAAF operational strength began to be reduced.[51] The first short term steps entailed the withdrawal of several obsolete aircraft types from service, such as the Canberra B(1)12, theSuper Frelon andWestland Wasp helicopters, the Kudu light aircraft and the P-166s Albatross coastal patrol aircraft. Other initial measures included the downgrading of Air Force Base Port Elizabeth and the disbanding of12,16,24,25, and27 Squadrons. Two Commando squadrons –103 Squadron SAAF at AFB Bloemspruit and114 Squadron SAAF at AFB Swartkop – were also disbanded.
The 250 Air Defence Artillery Group, also known as the 250 Air Defence Unit (ADU), was a group of air defence squadrons that operated under the control of the South African Air Force tasked with airbase defence. The group consisted of120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129 and 130 Squadrons and had its own active Citizen Force component. These squadrons were equipped with theTigercat mobile surface-to-air missile system, TheCactus surface-to-air missile system, theZU-23-2 23mm Anti-Aircraft Gun and theBofors 40 mm gun.
120 Squadron mainly operated the Cactus missile system operationally in platoons from 1973 until the late 1980s with each platoon consisting of one Acquisition and Co-ordination Unit (ACU) and two or three firing units, with a battery having two platoons.[52] 121 Squadron, 123 Squadron and later 129 Squadron mainly operated the Tigercat mobile surface-to-air missile system. In South African service it was given the name "Hilda". 123 Squadron was deployed for Operation Savannah in 1975 to provide air defence forAir Force Base Grootfontein in South-West Africa. 129 Squadron was deployed to Air Force BaseOndangwa for the remainder of the Border War to provide air defence for the logistics base and airfield there, as it was an important staging area for the South African Defence Force for their operations in neighbouringAngola.[53][54]
The Air Defence Artillery Group was disbanded in 1992 after the Cactus missile system was retired, with only remnants of 120 Squadron, operating the upgraded Cactus Container system, becoming a part of Air Command Control Unit at Snake Valley opposite Air Force Base Swartkop on the eastern side of the shared runway. 120 Squadron was finally disbanded in 2002 after these systems were retired.[55]
| Click on show to view major SAAF operations of the Border War | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major South African Air Force operations during the Border War: 1978–1988 | ||||
| Date | Operation | Location / Country | Aircraft and Role | Notes |
| May 1978 | Reindeer | Cassinga, Angola | Para-drop: 4x C-130, 5x C-160 Para extraction and support: 14x Puma, 6x Super Frelon Strike: 6x Canberra, 4x Buccaneer CAP: 4x IIICZ C³: 1x Cessna-185, 1x DC-4 (EW/ELINT) | Capt. A. Marais (Buccaneer pilot) awardedHCS for action in support of ground forces.[56] |
| Jul 1979 | Rekstok II | Area ??? | Aircraft?? | Mirage III R2Z (#856) lost due to AAA, pilot ejected and was recovered to AFB Ondangwa.[57] |
| 1979 | Vanity, Placid and Motel | Eastern Angola and Zambia | Light Bomber: Canberras from SAAF 12 Sqn with Rhodesian 5 Sqn Canberras | Operation Vanity: 25–26 Feb 1979 – bombing of ZIPRA camps in eastern Angola. Operations Placid I and II: 21 – 24 Aug 1979: Bombing of ZIPRA camps in Zambia. Operations Motel I and II: Aug 1979: Strikes on camps SW of Solwezi, Zambia. |
| Jun 1980 | Smokeshell | Area??? | Aircraft?? | Impala Mk II (#1037) lost due to 23mm AAA fire. Pilot ejected and was recovered to HAA in Evale, Angola. Aircraft was recovered by Super Frelon and returned to service with same side number. Alouette III (#24) lost due to small arms fire. Pilot escaped, flight engineer killed.[58] |
| Jun 1980 | Sceptic and Sceptic II | Area??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Dec 1980 | Wishbone | Area??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Aug – Sep 1981 | Protea | Cunene province,Angola | Strike and CAS: 12x F1AZ, 8x F1CZ, 7x IIICZ, 6x IIID2Z, 16x Impala, 5x Buccaneer, 5x Canberra PR: 1x Canberra, 3x IIIRZ, 2x Impala Fire Support / Tactical Transport: 19x Alouette III, 17x Puma, 2x Super Frelon, 8 x Kudu Para-drop and Logistics: 7x Dakota, 3x C130/160 AFC and C³: 11x Bosbok[59] | Capt. R.C.M. LewerDFC, HCS awardedHCS for Impala night attack on enemy positions threatening SADF stopper group on evening preceding commencement of Operation Protea.[60] Alouette III (#48) lost to 14.4mm AAA. Crew killed.[61] |
| Nov 1981 | Daisy | Chitequeta, southern Angola | CAP and Strike: 20x F1 PR: 2x IIIRZ CAS: 15x Impala Army Support: 9x Puma, 2x Frelon, 10x Alouette Air Transport: 4x DC3, 6x C130/160, 1x DC4 AFC and C³: 9x Bosbok[62] | Results?? |
| Mar 1982 | Super | Kaokoveld, South West Africa and Angolan province of Namibe | Aircraft?? | Air support to ground force operation to prevent SWAPO infiltration into South West Africa through the Kaokoveld from a location near the abandoned Portuguese town of Iona. Capt N. Ellis and F/Sgt S. Coetzee awardedHC for close air support to army forces.[60] |
| Mar 1982 | Rekstok III | Area ??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Aug 1982 | Meebos | Area ??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Oct 1982 | Bravo | Area ??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| 1983 | Maanskyn | Area ??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Apr – Jun 1983 | Dolfyn | Area ??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| May 1983 | Skerve | Mozambique | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Aug 1983 | Karton | Area ??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Nov 1983 – Jan 1984 | Askari | Cuvelai, Cunene province, Angola[63] | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| 1985 | Second Congress | Area ??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Sep – Oct 1985 | Wallpaper and Weldmesh | Area ??? | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Jun – Nov 1987 | Moduler | Cuito Cuanavale,Angola | Army Support: Alouette IIIs, Pumas CAP and PR escort: F1CZs CAS and Strike missions: F1AZ, Buccaneer PR: IIR2Z AFC: Bosbok, RPV[64] | Operation to halt Angolan / Cuban advance on Mavinga. Pumas used for special forces insertion and extraction. 1x F1CZ damaged by MiG-23 AAM-8 missile; crash landed Rundu 27 Sep 87.[65] SA-8 SAM system captured and flown back to S Afr by C160.[66] 3x RPV[67] and 1x Bosbok (#934) lost to SA-8 SAM Sep 87, pilot killed.[68] |
| Nov 1987 – Mar 1988 | Hooper | Cuito Cuanavale,Angola | Aircraft?? | Mirage F1AZ (#245) lost to SA-13 SAM. Pilot killed.[68] |
| Mar – May 1988 | Packer | Cuito Cuanavale,Angola | Aircraft?? | Results?? |
| Abbreviations • CAP: Combat air patrol • PR: Photo reconnaissance • CAS: Close air support • C³: Command, control and communications • AFC: Airborne artillery fire control • HAA: Helicopter administration area • AAA: Anti-aircraft artillery | ||||
During the bush war, the SAAF lost a total of 22 aircraft[e] (1974–1989) to enemy action. A further 11 aircraft[f] were lost in the operational area due to pilot error or malfunction.[69]
After thefirst South African multi-racial elections in 1994, the SAAF became part of theSouth African National Defence Force (SANDF). The South African Air Force is currently considered to be the most effective air force in sub-Sahara Africa despite the loss of capability as a consequence of defence cuts after the end of the Border War.[70]
These financial cuts have brought about a number of severe operational limitations, compounded by the loss of experienced air-crews. This has placed strain on the bringing new types of aircraft into service, specifically the Gripen, Hawk, Rooivalk, A 109 and Lynx. The cancellation of the SAAF participation and procurement of the A400M in November 2009 has denied the SAAF the strategic airlift capability needed for domestic, regional and continent-wide transport operations. There is no clear indication as yet regarding how the heavy/long-range airlift gap will be addressed.[70]
Current air combat capabilities are limited to the Gripen multi-role fighter and the Rooivalk combat support helicopter although in insufficient number to allow regional deployments while maintaining national air security and current training commitments. To overcome this shortfall, the SAAF has designated the Hawk Mk 120 trainers for additional tactical reconnaissance and weapon delivery platforms for targets designated by the Gripens.[70] Financial constraints have further limited flying hours on the newly acquired aircraft; it was planned to keep Gripen pilots current flying the lower cost Hawk aircraft with "Gripenised" cockpits.[71] It was reported in 2013 that the Gripen fleet wasn't fully manned with some pilots redesignated as reserve pilots and others being assigned instructor roles atAir Force Base Makhado. The SAAF stated that the Gripen fleet is being rotated between short-term storage and active use by the regular active pilots to spread the limited flying hours among the whole fleet.[72] During this same period it was reported that 18 of the SAAF'sAgustaWestland AW109 helicopters have been grounded due to an accident involving one of the helicopters several months prior and a lack of funds for regular maintenance, however in November 2013 after five months of not flying, the grounding of the helicopters was lifted after more funds became available.[73]Despite all its setbacks and financial woes, the South African Air Force continues to undertake and complete the tasks and obligations assigned to it. The SAAF still plays a vital role in national security operations,United Nations peacekeeping missions, and other foreign deployments. As of 2014[update] the Air force has several aircraft, aircrew and ground crew on foreign deployments. ThreeRooivalk[74] attack helicopters from16 Squadron SAAF and five or six15,17,19 and/or22 Squadron SAAF'sOryx transport helicopters were stationed inGoma in theDemocratic Republic of the Congo as part of theUnited Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). The Rooivalk and Oryx Helicopters are part of the South African contribution to the 3000-strongUnited Nations Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) and they have flown several sorties against rebel factions who are operating inNorth Kivu province, particularly the notoriousM23 militia group who were routed from their strongholds after an offensive by the UN Force Intervention Brigade and theMilitary of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.[75][76][77]
Several28 Squadron SAAFC-130BZ Hercules aircraft also regularly flew toSudan, DR Congo andUganda, including Lubumbashi,Kinshasa,Goma, Beni, Bunia andEntebbe, as Entebbe is the logistic hub for MONUSCO in the eastern DR Congo. They mainly fly missions ranging from logistic support for SA National Defence Force continental peacekeeping and peace support operations, humanitarian operations, support to theSouth African Army, and general airlift.[78][79] AC-47TP Turbo Dakota from35 Squadron SAAF permanently based in theMozambican city ofPemba to provide maritime patrol capability for theSouthern African Development Community (SADC) counter-piracy mission in theMozambique Channel, Operation Copper. There is also aSuper Lynx from22 Squadron SAAF operating from theSouth African Navy frigates whenever they are stationed in the Mozambican channel. The air force also assists Operation Corona from "time to time" by deploying eitherAgustaWestland AW109 orAtlas Oryx helicopters to its borders.[80]
During the2010 FIFA World Cup theSouth African National Defence Force was deployed in order to provide security for the event. The air force deployed armedGripen Fighter aircraft andHawk advanced trainer aircraft to conduct air patrols to monitor air traffic.Rooivalk,Atlas Oryx andAgustaWestland AW109 helicopters were also deployed during the event.[81]
It was also reported by the Afrikaans daily newspaper,Beeld, that on 23 March 2013 when theSéléka rebel group attempted to take power in theCentral African Republic by invading the capital ofBangui, four armedGripen Fighter aircraft from2 Squadron SAAF were sent along with a C-130BZ transport aircraft (reportedly carrying a stock of bombs) in order to provide close air support to the 200-strong South African garrison who were still fighting in the city. The aircraft were, however, recalled shortly after, as the South Africans and the rebels agreed to a ceasefire and rather opted to withdraw peacefully from the country. Several flights made by C-130BZ aircraft evacuated the bodies of the 13 South African soldiers who were killed and the 27 who were wounded during the Séléka offensive and also the remainder of the deployed soldiers and their equipment after the ceasefire was declared. The deployment of the Gripen fighter aircraft indicated that if the situation called for it, the country will deploy its fighter aircraft in order to ensure the protection of its assets.[82]
The air force was also tasked with maintaining national security before and during the funeral procession of former presidentNelson Mandela in December 2013. Several SAAF helicopters conducted patrols overPretoria while the former president's body was lying in state in the days leading up to the funeral. Gripen fighter aircraft, armed withIRIS-T missiles andDigital Joint Reconnaissance Pods, conducted combat air patrols to enforce a no-fly zone for several days over certain areas inGauteng province and later during the funeral itself overQunu, in the Eastern Cape. Two Gripens were also tasked with escorting a C-130BZ aircraft, which was carrying President Mandela's body fromAir Force Base Waterkloof to theMthatha Airport. Five Gripens, three Oryx helicopters and the 6Pilatus PC-7's of theSilver Falcons performed a flypast in a final salute to the late former president.[83]
On 12 September 2014, a church hostel collapsed within the compound of theSynagogue, Church of All Nations inLagos,Nigeria. More than 100 persons died in the collapse, among them 85 South Africans.[84] PresidentJacob Zuma ordered the South African Air Force to assist with the repatriation of survivors and victims, and the first 25 survivors were flown to South Africa in a specially adapted SAAFHercules C-130 on 22 September 2014.[85] Due to a lack of airlift capacity, anAntonov aircraft fromMaximus Aero was chartered in order to repatriate the bodies of 74 victims, which arrived on 15 November 2014.[86] The last 11 bodies were finally repatriated using an SAAF C-130 on 6 February 2015. The delay in repatriating the last bodies was due to authorities having to wait for DNA test results in order to positively identify the remaining victims.[84]
In spite of its budget concerns, the air force still continues to participate in and support annual air and defence shows and capability demonstrations such as the Rand show, the Zwartkops airshow and theAfrica Aerospace and Defence Expo.[87][88]
In 2002Musa Mbhokota became the SAAF's first black jet fighter pilot.[89] In March 2017 Nandi Zama became for first black woman in SAAF history to command and fly a Hercules C-130 cargo plane.[90]
As of 2021, Department of Defence officials informed Parliament that a reduced availability of aircraft was negatively affecting hours flown. Helicopter systems were said to have "a critical spares shortage" with similar problems also confronting the transport and combat aircraft and systems. The parliamentary Defence and Military Veterans (PCDMV) committee was told that "Constrained funding is also affecting the ability to provide enough serviceable aircraft, although serious efforts are being made to ensure availability is increased within the reduced budget". During the first quarter of the 2021/22 financial year, the air force flew 3,560.8 hours, including 2,717 Force Preparation hours, 636.7 Force Employment hours; and 207.1 VIP flying hours.[91] As of late 2021, all the Air Force's Gripen fighter aircraft were grounded. However, in 2022 the Air Force concluded a deal with Saab to return 13 of the aircraft to service over a three-year period.[92][93]As of March 2025, only six aircraft in total are reported to be in working order.[94][95]
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In 2002 the Air Force rank insignia were changed from one which was shared with the Army to a new pattern based on stripes. The Air Force stated that this was "in order to bring it more in line withinternational forms of rank".[96] The General ranks initially had a thick stripe (thicker than the Senior Officer rank stripe) with thin stripes above, but this was changed shortly after implementation to the crossed sword and baton insignia typical of Commonwealth Generals. The reason for the change so soon after implementation of the new insignia was presumed to be confusion in differentiating between Generals and Senior Officers.
| Rank group | General/Flag/Air officers | Senior officers | Junior officers | |||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 South African Air Force[97] |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | ||||||||||||||
| General | Lieutenant general | Major general | Brigadier general | Colonel | Lieutenant colonel | Major | Captain | Lieutenant | Second lieutenant | |||||||||||||||
Note: The Rank of Master Chief Warrant Officer is only used when the Sergeant Major of the Air Force is also the Sergeant Major of the Defence Force.
| Equivalent NATO rank | WO-5 | WO-4 | WO-3 | WO-2 | WO-1 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| South African Air Force |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Master chief warrant officer | Senior chief warrant officer | Chief warrant officer | Master warrant officer | Senior warrant officer | ||
| Rank group | Senior NCOs | Junior NCOs | Enlisted | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| South African Air Force[97] |  |  |  |  |  |  | No insignia | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Warrant officer class 1 | Warrant officer class 2 | Flight sergeant | Sergeant | Corporal | Lance corporal | Airman | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
A new set of emblems, medals and decorations were introduced on 29 April 2003,[98] although medals issued by the SADF can still be worn.
The various Forward Air Command Posts and Air Operations Teams were closed on 31 December 2003 and integrated in the new Joint Regional Task Groups under command of Chief of Joint Operations.
| Click on show to view order of battle and equipment fit of current SAAF Squadrons and Units | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note: Squadron composition as seen below is incomplete. | ||||
| Squadron Number | Base | Type of Aircraft | Role | Composition |
| 2 Squadron SAAF | AFB Makhado | Gripen | Air-Defence | 9 Gripen D, 17 Gripen C |
| 15 Squadron SAAF | AFB Durban | Atlas Oryx,MBB/Kawasaki BK 117 | Transport | |
| 15 Squadron - C Flight | AFS Port Elizabeth | BK 117 – converting toAgusta A109 | Transport | |
| 16 Squadron SAAF | AFB Bloemspruit | Denel Rooivalk | Attack | 11 Rooivalk Mk I |
| 17 Squadron SAAF | AFB Swartkop[100][101] | Atlas Oryx, Agusta A109 | Transport | 4 A109 |
| 19 Squadron SAAF | AFB Hoedspruit | Atlas Oryx, Agusta A109 | Transport | 5 A109 |
| 21 Squadron SAAF | AFB Waterkloof | Boeing BBJ,Cessna Citation I,Dassault Falcon 50,Dassault Falcon 900 | VIP Transport | |
| 22 Squadron SAAF | AFB Ysterplaat | Atlas Oryx,Westland Super Lynx 300 | Transport | |
| 28 Squadron SAAF | AFB Waterkloof | LockheedC-130BZ Hercules | Medium Transport | |
| 35 Squadron SAAF | AFB Ysterplaat | C-47TP Dakota | Maritime patrol/Transport | |
| 41 Squadron SAAF | AFB Waterkloof | Cessna 208,Pilatus PC-12,Beechcraft 200C King Air | Light Transport | |
| 44 Squadron SAAF | AFB Waterkloof | CASA C-212 Aviocar,CASA CN-235 | Light Transport | |
| 60 Squadron SAAF | AFB Waterkloof | No operational aircraft. Planned acquisition ofAirbus A400Ms cancelled in November 2009. | Transport/Aerial refueling/EW/ELINT | |
| 80 Air Navigation School | AFB Ysterplaat | Navigation training | ||
| 85 Combat Flying School | AFB Makhado | BAE Systems Hawk Mk.120 | Jet-flight training/Combat Operation | 24 Hawk Mk.120 |
| 87 Helicopter Flying School | AFB Bloemspruit | Atlas Oryx, Agusta A109, BK 117 | Helicopter flight training | 9 A109 |
| Central Flying School | AFB Langebaanweg | Pilatus PC-7 MkII | Flight training.[g] | |
| Test Flight and Development Centre | AFB Overberg | 1x Agusta 109, 1x SAAB Gripen D, 1x BAe Hawk Mk.120, 1x Atlas Oryx[h] | Test flight and evaluation | |
| SA Air Force College | Other locations | |||
| SAAF Museum Historic Flight | AFB Swartkop | |||
| Joint Air Reconnaissance Intelligence Centre | AFB Waterkloof | Air Intelligence | ||
| 101 Squadron | AFB Hoedspruit | Light Transport (Reserve) | ||
| 102 Squadron | AFB Makhado | Light Transport (Reserve) | ||
| 104 Squadron | AFB Waterkloof | Light Transport (Reserve) | ||
| 105 Squadron | AFB Durban | Light Transport (Reserve) | ||
| 106 Squadron | AFB Bloemspruit | Light Transport (Reserve) | ||
| 107 Squadron | AFB Bloemspruit | Light Transport (Reserve) | ||
| 108 Squadron | AFS Port Elizabeth | Light Transport (Reserve) | ||
| 110 Squadron | AFB Ysterplaat | Light Transport (Reserve) | ||
| 111 Squadron | AFB Waterkloof | Light Transport (Reserve) | ||
| 1 Air Servicing Unit | AFS Thaba Tshwane | Support and maintenance | ||
| 2 Air Servicing Unit | AFB Ysterplaat | Support and maintenance | ||
| 3 Air Servicing Unit | AFB Makhado | Support and maintenance | ||
| 4 Air Servicing Unit | Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing | Support and maintenance | ||
| 5 Air Servicing Unit | AFB Waterkloof | Support and maintenance | ||
| 7 Air Servicing Unit | AFB Hoedspruit | Support and maintenance | ||
| 10 Air Depot | AFS Thaba Tshwane | Logistic support services | ||
| 68 Air School | TEK Base | Technical aviation training | ||
| 18 Deployment Support Unit | Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing | Logistic support services | ||
| 92 Tactical Airfield Unit | Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing | |||
| 97 Tactical Airfield Unit | Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing | Logistic support services | ||
| 140 Squadron | Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing | Long Range 3D Mobile Radar | ||
| 142 Squadron | Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing | Tactical Mobile Radar | ||
| 500 Squadron | Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing | Special Operations Task Force | ||
| 501 Squadron | Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing | Security services | ||
| 502 Squadron | TEK Base | Security services | ||
| 503 Squadron | Valhalla | Security services | ||
| 504 Squadron | AFB Waterkloof | Security services | ||
| 505 Squadron | AFB Ysterplaat | Security services | ||
| 506 Squadron | AFB Bloemspruit | Security services | ||
| 508 Squadron | AFB Durban | Security services | ||
| 514 Squadron | AFB Hoedspruit | Security services | ||
| 515 Squadron | AFB Makhado | Security services | ||
| 525 Squadron | AFB Overberg | Security services | ||
| 526 Squadron | AFB Langebaanweg | Security services | ||
| Air Force Gymnasium | AFB Hoedspruit | Basic training of new airforce members | ||
| Bushveld Airspace Control Sector | Air Command, Air Force Headquarters (Pretoria) | Training (Air defence)/Air Traffic Control Services | ||
| Lowveld Airspace Control Sector | AFB Hoedspruit | Training (Air defence)/Air Traffic Control Services | ||
| Mobile Communications Unit | Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing | Mobile communications | ||
| Rapid Deployment Air Operations Team 43 | Wonderboom | Logistic support services | ||
| Rapid Deployment Air Operations Team 46 | Johannesburg | Logistic support services | ||
| Air Publications Service Centre | AFS Thaba Tshwane | Maintains documentation, aviation regulations and acts | ||
| SA Air Force Band | Valhalla | Ceremonial | ||
| Command and Control School | AFB Waterkloof | Training | ||
| School of Cookery | Valhalla | Training of chefs and waiters | ||
| Fire Training School | Valhalla | Fire fighting and rescue training | ||
| Air Force Command and Control School | AFB Hoedspruit | Command and Control, Airspace Control and Telecommunications training | ||
| Airspace Control Unit | AFB Swartkop | Logistics support services (Air defence) | ||
| Central Photographic Institute | AFB Waterkloof | Photographic services | ||
| Combined Auction Centre | Other | Logistic support services | ||
| Ellisras Reporting Post | Other | Early Warning Radar installation | ||
| SAAF Police | Other | Security services | ||
| SAAF Telecommunications Centre | AFB Waterkloof | Logistics support services | ||
| Electronic Warfare Centre | AFB Waterkloof | Logistics support services | ||
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TheSaab JAS 39 Gripen is the South African Air Force's primarymulti-role fighter andair-defence aircraft, acquired under the 1999Strategic Defence Package to replace the ageing fleet of 68Atlas Cheetahs and 48Dassault Mirage F1s that had served since theBorder War era.[104][105][106] Entering service between 2008 and 2012,[107] the Gripen introduced modern supersonic performance, advanced avionics,network-centric capability, and sophisticatedelectronic warfare systems to the SAAF.[108] Although the acquisition of 26 aircraft fell far short of the 116 originally required to fully replace the previous fighter inventory, the Gripen has proven technologically advanced enough to meet South Africa's air-defence requirements, particularly given the limited air threat posed by neighbouring states reducing the requirement for a large fighter force.[108] Its introduction also marked the closure ofProject Carver, an indigenous South African fighter development programme launched during thearms embargo to produce a moderntwin-engine,fourth-generation multirole fighter. Although Carver had influenced South Africa's aerospace design, it was cancelled in 1991, as the end of the border war,apartheid, andinternational sanctions, along with restored diplomatic relations, had greatly reduced the need for such an ambitious programme. This ultimately paved the way for the acquisition of the Gripen.[109]
The SAAF currently operates a total of 26 Gripens (17 single-seat C models, 9 two-seat D models); the aircraft are flown by2 Squadron atAFB Makhado, with pilot and systemstraining conducted by the Gripen DOperational Conversion Unit (OCU).[110] The Gripen entered service equipped with theIRIS-Tshort-range air-to-air missile (SRAAM),[111] a German-led multinationaldogfighting weapon chosen as an interim solution until the locally developedDenel DynamicsV3E A-Darter enters service.[112] Although the Cheetah previously carried theR-Darterbeyond-visual-range (BVR) missile, the R-Darter was never integrated onto the Gripen because it was consideredobsolete in South African service. As a result, the SAAF has had no operational BVR capability since the R-Darter's retirement.[111] Its intended replacement is the next generationMarlin (now known as the Joint Strike Missile), a multi-roleactive radar-guided BVR air-to-air missile with an approximate range of 100 km.[111] A demonstrator has already been tested at theOverberg Test Range in the Western Cape, although delays and financial difficulties at Denel have prevented it from entering service.[113][114] The SAAF has also explored an indigenouscruisemissile capability under theMUPSOW (Multi-Purpose Stand-Off Weapon) programme, although its operational status remains unconfirmed and possibly classified.[115]
Operationally, the Gripen has been deployed for border safeguarding, regional standby force commitments, and airspace protection during major national events, including the2010 FIFA World Cup. It was also deployed during the2013 crisis in the Central African Republic, where SAAF Gripens equipped with offensive weapons were sent on an emergency mission and successfully reached the region through staged refuelling inZambia, a necessity following the retirement of the SAAF's five-strongBoeing KC-707 tanker fleet,[116] but ultimately arrived too late to participate in combat operations.[117] Due to budget cuts, the majority of the fleet is in storage to conserve flying hours, with only a small number maintained in airworthy condition at any given time. Despite reduced availability, the Gripen maintains the SAAF's minimum required air policing capability and continues to serve as the backbone of South Africa's air defence strategy.[118]
TheBAE Systems Hawk Mk 120 serves as the South African Air Force'slead-in fighter trainer (LIFT) with integrated combat capability, ordered under the 1999 Strategic Defence Package to replace theImpala Mk II and to bridge the gap between basic flight training and frontline Gripen operations.[105] Delivered between 2005 and 2008, a total of 24 Hawk 120s were acquired.[119] The aircraft features modern avionics, advanced flight controls, and weapons systems, allowing it to both train pilots and undertake light combat roles as needed. The Hawk remains a key asset in sustaining South Africa'sfighter pilot pipeline, serving as the intermediate step before deployment on the Gripen.
The Hawk fleet is operated by85 Combat Flying School at AFB Makhado, where it provides Phase III/IV advanced jet training for pilots destined for 2 Squadron.[120] In addition to its training function, the Hawk is capable of performing secondary missions such aslight attack,close air support, andtactical reconnaissance, using a 30 mmADEN cannon,precision-guided weapons, and air-to-air missiles.[120] The Hawk is also being equipped to deploy the V3E A-Darter SRAAM, further enhancing its combat readiness and aligning its systems with those of the Gripen.[121]
Operationally, the Hawk has been used in joint training exercises, firepower demonstrations, and limited operational support, including internal security operations. While impacted by budget cuts that have reduced flying hours, the Hawk remains essential to the SAAF's ability to train modern fighter pilots domestically and provides a versatile and cost-effective combat-capable platform for both training and operational support roles.[122]
TheMilkor 380 is the South African Air Force's firstmedium-altitude long-endurance (MALE)unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), developed by the privately owned South African defence companyMilkor to provide an independentsurveillance and precision strike capability. Unveiled in 2018 and completing its first flight in September 2023, it is the largest and most advanced UAV ever produced in Africa, placing South Africa among only about ten countries capable of manufacturing an aircraft of this class.[123] Five systems have been ordered for evaluation under aMemorandum of Understanding (MoU) with theDepartment of Defence,[124] with several airframes already undergoing testing under SAAF oversight;[125] the first initial fleet of five is expected to enter service by the end of 2025, marking a major step toward operational integration.[126]
Designed for multi-role employment, the Milkor 380 is capable of deploying a range ofprecision-guided munitions,laser-guidedmissiles, and a new prototype Milkor-developed missile currently undergoing testing. The platform incorporates ARGOS II HDTelectro-optical/infrared sensors withlaser-designation capability, redundantLOS andBLOSdatalink systems, autonomous take-off and landing, and modular payload bays that supportSIGINT pods, electronic-warfare suites, and other multi-mission ISR equipment.[127] A strategic MoU withSouth Korea'sHanwha Systems enables the integration of anactive electronically scanned array (AESA)synthetic aperture radar (SAR), providing all-weather imaging and significantly enhancing its operational versatility.[128] Production is based at Milkor's facility in Cape Town, with planned expansion to manufacture up to 16 systems per year by 2026. The 380 will eventually be complemented by the even larger next generationMilkor 780high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) UCAV, which is currently in development and is set to surpass the 380 in size—potentially becoming the largest UAV ever developed in the Southern Hemisphere.[129][130]
TheCessna 208 Caravan forms the core of the South African Air Force’sintelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) capability, filling the gap left by the retirement of theSeeker Mk I UAVs in 2004. Originally acquired asliaison andutility aircraft, 11 airframes were upgraded and converted forelectronic warfare (EW) under Project Koiler in 2007, receiving the Argos 410-Z electro-optical system, which includes athermal imager, high-zoom TV camera,laser rangefinder, autotracker, datalink, and the MAPS (Mission Awareness Positioning System) suite for precise GPS-based targeting. A removable operator console, combined with real-time downlinking, allows the Caravan to function as a cost-effectiveairborne surveillance andreconnaissance platform.[131][132]
Operated by41 Squadron, they conduct border safeguarding, internal land surveillance, and limitedmaritime patrol missions, while also retaining secondary utility and logistics roles. The Caravan remains one of the SAAF's most versatile and enduring platforms for domestic intelligence gathering and real-time reconnaissance.[131]
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TheLockheed MartinC-130BZ Hercules serves as the South African Air Force's primarytactical airlift platform, flown by28 Squadron atAFB Waterkloof. Originally acquired in 1963 as C-130B models (seven aircraft, 401–407), the fleet was expanded in 1997–1998 with five additional Hercules supplied by theUnited States under theExcess Defense Articles programme—two ex-USAF C-130Bs (408 and 409) and three ex-USN C-130Fs.[133] However, only two B-models and one F-model entered service; the C-130F that briefly flew was quickly withdrawn, while the other two F-models were never commissioned due to extensive airframe corrosion and the prohibitive cost of upgrading them.[133] All nine B-models were upgraded to C-130BZ standard under Project Ebb (1996–2009), led byMarshall Aerospace in the UK andDenel Aviation in South Africa, which introduced digitalglass cockpits, modern avionics, new navigation and communication systems, and self-protection suites—transitioning the fleet from the original C-130B configuration and extending its operational relevance into the 21st century.[134] In 2025, it was reported that six aircraft (401, 402, 405, 406, 408, and 409) remain capable of being madeairworthy—the SAAF once operated nine serviceable C-130BZs, but two were written off due to accidents and another Hercules wascannibalised for parts.[134]
Despite the ongoing upgrades, the C-130BZ fleet is now more than 60 years old and was originally intended to be replaced in the 2010s by theAirbus A400M Atlas, of which eight were contracted under South Africa's 2005 risk-sharing agreement withAirbus.[135][136] The cancellation of the A400M programme in 2009 by then Defence MinisterLindiwe Sisulu—due to cost escalations and delivery delays—was met with strong criticism from defence analysts, leaving the SAAF without a modern strategic airlifter while countries like theUK,Germany,France, andTurkey went on to induct the Atlas into service.[137] As of 2025, the SAAF has shifted its focus toward theEmbraer C-390 Millennium as a potential successor to the C-130BZ.[138]
TheCASA C-212 Aviocar is operated by44 Squadron of the South African Air Force and serves primarily in light transport, airborne operations, and versatile utility support roles. Four C-212s were inherited in 1994 from the defence forces of former homelands (Bophuthatswana,Transkei, andVenda) and has been in SAAF service ever since.[139] Itsshort take-off and landing (STOL) capability, high-wing design, and rugged fixed landing gear make it well-suited for operation from austere and unprepared fields. 44 Squadron performs a wide variety of missions with the C-212, including cargo drops,paratrooping,casevac, reconnaissance, and light transport.[139]
The South African Air Force operates fourBeechcraft Super King Air 200 and 300 series aircraft through 41 Squadron (AFB Waterkloof) for primarily light transport, it may also perform liaison and reconnaissance missions when required.[140] Over the years, the King Air fleet has undergone upgrades, including a major refurbishment byExecujet, which installed modernGarmin G1000 avionics systems, overhauled interiors, and conducted structural inspections.[141] 41 Squadron's King Airs are tasked with routine air logistics, airborne operations, and battlefield support, serving in day/night and all-weather conditions.[142]
ThePilatus PC-12 is used by the South African Air Force, based with 41 Squadron at AFB Waterkloof, primarily for personnel movement, VIP transport, andmedical evacuation. The PC-12 entered SAAF service in 1997, and features a spacious, reconfigurable cabin that can carry passengers, cargo, or a stretcher with medical staff. As of 2025, the SAAF operates a single PC-12, making it a relatively rare but valuable asset within the air force's fixed-wing transport fleet.[143]
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TheBoeing 737, nicknamedInkwazi and operated by21 Squadron at AFB Waterkloof, serves as the South African Air Force's primaryVIP transport aircraft, primarily used for presidential travel and high-level government delegations. As the largest aircraft in the VIP fleet, it provides long-range capability and secure onboard communications suited for state-level missions.[144]
TheCessna Citation II fleet, consisting of two aircraft operated by 21 Squadron, provides light VIP transport and ministerial travel for government officials. Its compact size and efficiency make it suitable for short-range missions and regional engagements.[145]
TheDassault Falcon 50, with two aircraft in service under 21 Squadron, is used for VIP and executive transport, serving senior government officials and foreign dignitaries. Itstri-jet configuration and extended range offer flexibility for both domestic and continental travel.[146]
Also operated by 21 Squadron, theDassault Falcon 900 is the sole example in the SAAF fleet and complements the Falcon 50 by providing long-range VIP airlift and secure government transport. It features advanced avionics and a spacious cabin tailored for senior leadership mobility.[147]
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TheC-47-TP Turbo Dakota, operated by35 Squadron atAFB Ysterplaat, was the South African Air Force's primarymaritime patrol and naval surveillance platform for over three decades following itsturboprop conversion under Project Felstone in the early 1990s. Between 1990 and 1995, a total of 29 aircraft were fully converted and 10 partially converted to C47-TP status.[148] This modernization program replaced the originalpiston engines withPT6A-65R turboprops, extending airframe life and improving performance for low-altitude maritime operations. Originally built as World War II-era C-47 Dakotas, these aircraft later filled roles ranging from transport and training to fisheries protection andsearch-and-rescue support in South African territorial waters.[149]
The entire fleet has been grounded since 2022 due to the collapse of OEM support, maintenance backlogs, and the expiration of safety-critical systems likefire suppression. Only five aircraft remain structurally viable—three in maritime configuration and two in transport setup—but all face severe supportability issues, including the absence of certified maintenance facilities. Despite its cost-effectiveness and rugged design, the Dakota's age, limited sensor suite, and safety concerns have undermined efforts to restore capability. Successive replacement programs—Saucepan, Metsi, Kiepie, and most recently Pelican—have stalled due to budgetary constraints, leaving the SAAF without a dedicated maritime patrol aircraft and unable to fulfill long-standing SAR andEEZ monitoring obligations.[150]
TheDenel Rooivalk is the South African Air Force's home-grownattack helicopter, operated by16 Squadron atAFB Bloemspruit. Developed by theAtlas Aircraft Corporation (which was later renamed and absorbed intoDenel Aviation in 1992, and subsequently restructured asDenel Aeronautics in 2017), the programme began in 1984, with the first prototype flying in 1990. The initial requirement called for 36 aircraft, but this was reduced to 12 following changes in defence strategy and subsequent defence-budget cuts in 1988.[151] Although 12 helicopters were originally ordered, one was lost in an accident, leaving 11 airframes, all of which were later upgraded to the Block 1F standard.[152] Delivered between 2011 and 2013, the Block 1F upgrade introduced improved avionics and targeting systems and enabled the use of precision-guided weapons such as theMokopaanti-tank missile. Operationally, three Rooivalks were deployed to theDemocratic Republic of the Congo in 2013 with theUN Force Intervention Brigade, where they conducted their first combat mission on 4 November 2013 againstM23 rebel positions and went on to perform extensive close-support and fires missions forMONUSCO.[153]
Recognising the risk to the fleet's long-term viability, South Africa's Denel Aeronautics and Turkey'sAselsan signed a collaboration agreement in 2023 to modernise the Rooivalk's avionics suite.[154] The planned upgrade includes a new glass cockpit with largermultifunction displays,digital moving map, upgradedflight-and mission-management systems, enhanced INS/GPS navigation, modern V/UHF andHF radios, an IFF Mode 5/Stransponder, improved electronic-warfare and self-protection systems, and an advanced long-range day/night electro-optical sight such as Aselsan's MEROPS. Complementing this, Denel is pursuing a broader mid-life upgrade centred on avionics, software, and incremental airframe improvements, with international export in mind. As part of this initiative, Denel has indicated the potential to restart Rooivalk production—manufacturing 50 to 100 new airframes if sufficient foreign orders are secured.[155]
TheAtlas Oryx (derivative of theSA 330 Puma), is a mediumtransport helicopter in the South African Air Force's fleet, principally used by15,17,19, and22 Squadrons. The 39‑strong fleet was modernised in a mid-life upgrade, under Project Drummer II, to extend service into the 2020s, featuring upgraded avionics, navigation systems, and self-protection systems.[156] The Oryx has been used for troop transport, medical evacuation, search and rescue, and humanitarian missions, both within South Africa, and in external deployments. Despite its age, it remains a core medium-lift utility helicopter for the SAAF, although funding shortfalls, and maintenance backlogs, regularly limit its operational availability.[157]
TheAgustaWestland AW109 Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) serves in alight-utility role with the South African Air Force, operated by 15, 17, and 19 Squadrons, as well as the87 Helicopter Flying School. About 30 aircraft were acquired under Project Flange, with 25 assembled in South Africa by Denel Aviation and the remaining five produced inItaly.[158] The AW109 is employed for reconnaissance, liaison, medical evacuation, and command missions, and can also be configured for light-attack roles.[159] However, several airframes have been lost in accidents, including some severe incidents that resulted in temporary fleet groundings pending investigation. An option for a further ten aircraft was never exercised, and persistent maintenance and funding constraints have contributed to low serviceability rates and limited operational availability.[160][161]
TheMBB/Kawasaki BK 117 is part of the South African Air Force's light-utility helicopter fleet, primarily based with 15 Squadron. The eight-strong fleet is valued for its simplicity, reliability, and ease of maintenance, and is used in search and rescue, medical evacuation, liaison, and general utility missions.[162] Its lightweight design, and straightforward systems, make it popular among pilots, especially in roles where the more complex A109 might be overkill, or less cost-effective. The BK117 can also be fitted with rocket pods to provide a light attack capability if required.[163]
TheWestland Super Lynx 300 Mk 64 operates in a maritime role with 22 Squadron, embarked on theSouth African Navy'sValour-class frigates. The four-strong fleet is configured foranti-submarine warfare (ASW), reconnaissance, maritime patrol, and limited utility missions. They are equipped with radar, electro-optical targeting systems, self-protection systems, and can support hoisting, and under-slung load operations, making them a versatile asset for naval helicopter operations, and maritime security.[164]
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The South African Air Force conducts pilot and aircrew training through a tiered system that progresses from basic flight instruction to advanced fast-jet, multi-engine, and helicopter qualifications. The SAAF operates a streamlined fleet offixed-wing androtary-wing trainers, combining aircraft,simulators, and squadron-level operational conversion to prepare pilots for frontline service.
ThePilatus PC-7 Mk I, introduced in the 1980s, served as the SAAF's primarybasic trainer for decades and, although still technically in the inventory, now remains in reserve and is seldom flown due to reduced pilot intakes and the transition to the Mk II; these airframes are retained for surge capacity or potential reactivation.[165] ThePC-7 Mk II Astra, introduced in 2010 through the upgrade of 35 Mk I airframes, is the current basic training aircraft operated by theCentral Flying School at AFB Langebaanweg, featuring modernised avionics and improved performance and forming the first stage of the pilot training pipeline before progression to the Hawk Mk 120.[166][167]
TheHawk Mk 120, operated by85 Combat Flying School at AFB Makhado, providesadvanced jet training andlead-in fighter training (LIFT). It bridges the gap between turboprop training and the Gripen, preparing pilots in tactical flying, air-to-air manoeuvring, weapons employment, and operational procedures.[166][168]
The dual-seat Gripen D serves as theoperational conversion platform for pilots transitioning from the Hawk to frontline Gripen C fighters. Though fully combat-capable, its primary role is to deliver final-stage fighter qualification, systems training, and combat readiness instruction.[166][168]
Helicopter pilot training in the SAAF is conducted internally rather than through a dedicated joint school:
This combined system enables the SAAF to prepare pilots for a wide range of operational environments—fighter, transport, and rotary—while maintaining a compact and efficient training fleet.[166]
Alongside its current inventory, the South African Air Force has retired a wide range of notable aircraft that once formed the backbone of its combat, transport, and training capabilities, and these aircraft were central to South Africa's air-combat, strike, reconnaissance, and transport capability throughout much of the Cold War and Border War era, forming the foundation upon which the SAAF's modern fleet was built.
For a list of all the aircraft the SAAF has retired over the years, see:List of historic aircraft of the South African Air Force.
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For weapon systems no longer in use, see:List of obsolete weapon systems of the South African Air Force.
The Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing (AFMDW) provides combat ready, integrated and deployable air support capabilities to theSouth African National Defence Force. The AFMDW consists of 18 Deployment Support Unit, Mobile Communications Unit, 140 Squadron and 142 Squadron, 500 Squadron and 501 Squadron.
The Air Force Conventional Reserves are a pool of reserve posts created to serve the SAAF and augment regular units as and when needed. All trades in the SAAF are represented in the reserves, e.g. pilots, security squadron personnel etc.The Air Force Territorial Reserve currently consists of nine squadrons of privately owned aircraft operated by reserve pilots on behalf of the SAAF who assist in light transport and observation roles.[169]
The South African Air Force Memorial is a memorial to South African Air Force members who have died whilst in service of the South African Air Corps and the South African Air Force from 1915 to the present. The memorial is located at Swartkop outsidePretoria.
The South African Air Force Museum houses, exhibits and restores material related to the history of the South African Air Force. It is spread across three locations;AFB Swartkop outsidePretoria,AFB Ysterplaat inCape Town and at thePort Elizabeth airport. Swartkop is the largest of the three museum locations, occupying at least five hangars and contains a number ofAtlas Cheetahs as well as a Cheetah C flight simulator.
The Silver Falcons are theaerobatic display team of the South African Air Force and are based at Air Force BaseLangebaanweg nearCape Town. The Silver Falcons fly thePilatus PC-7 Mk II Astra, the basic trainer of the SA Air Force in a 5-ship routine. The main purpose is to enhance the image of the South African Air Force, encourage recruitment and instill national pride through public display.
The South African Air Force operates several radar systems within the country's borders and can deploy radar systems internationally to support external South African operations such as during UN peacekeeping operations. The Air Force's radar equipment is also supplemented by radar equipment and data from the other branches of theSouth African National Defence Force, theSouth African Weather Service and several civilian airport radars who cooperate with the Air Force to monitor air traffic.
Each air force base is equipped with air field radar approach systems (AFRAS) that monitors air traffic within the airfield's operational sector 24 hours per day. These systems include primary approach radars, precision approach radars, and secondary surveillance radar and display systems. These systems have a range of more than 120 km. The AFRAS are maintained bySaab Grintek as well as Tellumat.[170]Air Force Base Overberg in theWestern Cape is also equipped with a Doppler tracking radar and is used primarily by theTest Flight and Development Centre SAAF and theDenel Overberg Test Range for aircraft and missile development tests.[171] In theWestern Cape there is a radar station at Kapteinskop, jointly used byAir Force Base Langebaanweg andCape Town International Airport to monitor air traffic.[172]Air Force Base Makhado has another radar station located in the mountains to the north of the main base complex apart from its AFRAS radar (located in the main base itself).[173]
The Air Force maintains six Umlindi (Zulu: "Watchman") AR3D long-range early warning radar systems (British AR3D radar systems extensively upgraded by the South African company, Tellumat) which are operated by140 Squadron SAAF as part of theSouth African Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing.[174] There are two static radar stations located inLephalale (Ellisras) and Mariepskop, nearAir Force Base Hoedspruit. The other systems are mobile and can be deployed to any part of the country to support operations with the use of 20-ton 8x8 MAN trucks. Each of these systems has a range of 500 km but can only track aircraft flying above 700 metres. The static radars are usually linked to two Air Force sector control centres (SCC), the Lowveld Airspace Control Sector and the Bushveld Airspace Control Sector, while the mobile radar have their own mobile sector control centres (MSCC).[175]
To mitigate this lack of low-level radar coverage, the Air Force also operates four Plessey Tactical Mobile Radar (TMR) systems (in service with142 Squadron SAAF). These systems can cover altitudes below 700 metres, but they have a shorter range than the Umlindi systems, at 150 km. The deployment of these systems require the use of a MAN 8×8 truck (one per system), one or two light vehicles for command and control purposes, a water tanker, a diesel bowser and a technical workshop vehicle. These systems can operate 24 hours a day with less than 20 personnel (including personnel from other AFMDW units like the Mobile Communications Unit and 501 Squadron).[175]
The South African Air Force'sSaab JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft are also equipped withPS-05/Apulse-dopplerX-band multi-moderadar, developed byEricsson andGEC-Marconi. This all-weather radar system is capable of locating and identifying air targets 120 km away and surface targets 70 km away. It is also able to automatically track multiple targets in the upper and lower spheres, on the ground and sea or in the air. It can guide several beyond visual range air-to-air missiles to multiple targets simultaneously (although the Air Force still lacks modern beyond visual range missile capability).[176][177] When deployed operationally on combat missions and air patrols the aircraft can link their systems to theSouth African National Defence Force's digital network protocol,Link-ZA, to share data with other radar systems to help create a wider picture as to the situation in the air and on the ground in order to rapidly adapt to a change in short term situations.[178]
Other branches of the South African National Defence Force also operate several radar systems that can assist the South African Air Force. TheSouth African Navy uses fourValour-class frigates, each of which is equipped with the Thales Naval France MRR-3D NG G-band multi-role surveillance/self-defence radar that can detect low and medium-level targets at ranges of up to 140 km and in long-range 3D air surveillance mode targets up to 180 km. In the self-defence mode, it can detect and track any threat within a radius of 60 km. These Frigates can link their data systems to the Link-ZA system to help create a broader picture for the armed forces.[179] TheSouth African Army also operates several Reutech Radar Systems (RRS) ESR220 Thutlhwa (Kameelperd/Giraffe) Mobile Battery Fire Control Post Systems. These NATO D-Band radars have a range of 120 km and can also be linked to Link-ZA to assist air force operations.[180]
Civilian airport radars in all nine provinces as well as the network ofSouth African Weather Service radars can also share their radar data with the South African Air Force. According to the South African Weather Service, the South African Air Force has access to raw data from their ten long range fixed system Doppler (S-Band) and two short range mobile (X-Band) meteorological radars, and the interpreted information can be used for aviation and defence purposes.[181][182]
Situated 66 km north of Pretoria, Ditholo Training Area used to house Air Defence Artillery Group until 1992. The 3300 hectare property is used primarily for gravel runway training, radar tracking, and aerial cargo drop exercises such as LAPES. Low Altitude Parachute Extraction System (LAPES) is a tactical military airlift delivery method where a fixed wing cargo aircraft can deposit supplies when landing is not an option in an area that is too small to accurately parachute supplies from a high altitude.
Other training include: Search and rescue exercises, basic training, VIP protection, candidate officer training, task force training and escape and evasion training.
Due to its unique ecology, Ditholo is also a registered nature reserve, being one of the few remaining portions of Kalahari plains thornveld in existence. As of 2013, Ditholo is run jointly with the Gauteng Provincial Government as part of the Dinokeng Biosphere Reserve. As of 24 May 2014 it houses more than 340 species of birds and large mammal species such as giraffe, lion, zebra, tsessebe, blue wildebeest, kudu and waterbuck.[183][184]
Situated in theLimpopo Province, roughly halfway between Polokwane (previously Pietersburg) and AFB Makhado, near the town of Louis Trichardt. This property is used for air superiority training. Buffering the range is the Corbadraai Nature Reserve.[185][186]
Activated only for large scale exercises in the Northern Cape.
In 1985 a satellite base at Dragons Peak, in the Drakensberg was established in order to conduct helicopter mountain flying training.
Vastrap (Afrikaans: "stand firm") is a small military airfield situated in the Kalahari Desert north east of Upington inside a 700 square kilometre weapons test range of the same name[1] belonging to the South African National Defence Force. It was constructed to allow the SAAF to practice tactical bombing operations, and for aircraft to service the ARMSCOR's defunct underground nuclear weapon test site.
The SAAF's training areas and bases are home to many species of fauna and flora as well as, in some instances, buildings and other structures of historical and cultural value. The Environmental Services sub-department in the SANDF Logistics Division has the overall task of ensuring proper environmental practices are in place not only on training grounds but also at bases.[187][188][189]
The following specific management is practiced:
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