Defence analyst Marais says it's concerning SANDF has only six operational military aircraft
According to News24, only two Gripen fighter jets, one Oryx utility helicopter, and three Hawk trainer jets are listed as operable.
CAPE TOWN - Independent defence and political analyst Kobus Marais says it's concerning that the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has only six military aircraft that are operational.
According to News24, only two Gripen fighter jets, one Oryx utility helicopter, and three Hawk trainer jets are listed as operable.
The report further reveals that more than 300 military aircraft are left sitting idle due to budget constraints.
READ: Motshekga admits austerity measures impacted SANDF capabilities
Marais said it's unfortunate that the country's army is not capable of protecting its citizens.
"If we are attacked today in a conventional way, we've got major challenges, and we will probably have to rely on international partners which is also diminishing over the last couple of years that we can turn to."
He said this is a very dire situation.
"We do not have naval capabilities and there's been one frigate that has been sailing, we don't know to what extent it is fully serviceable. We have got three multi-mission patrol vessels, and then we know that our Rooivalk has been grounded now for a number of years."