South African Air Force

First World War 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 to General Smuts. Smuts initiated an arrangement with private fliers in the Cape and established a flying school at Alexandersfontein near Kimberley, known as the Paterson Aviation Syndicate School, to train pilots for the proposed South African Aviation Corps. Flying training commenced in 1913 with students who excelled on the course being sent to the Central Flying School at Upavon in Great Britain for further training. The first South African military pilot qualified on 2 June 1914. On the outbreak of the First 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. 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 from Karibib and later from Omaruru, where improvised bombing missions were added when pilots started dropping hand grenades and rudimentary bombs by hand. 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 the Royal Flying Corps (RFC) were grouped to form No. 26 Squadron RFC and later becoming an independent squadron on 8 October 1915. No. 26 Squadron was equipped with Henri Farman F-27's and B.E.2c's and was shipped to Kenya in support of the war effort in German East Africa, landing in Mombasa on 31 January 1916. The squadron flew reconnaissance and observer missions throughout the campaign until February 1918 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. 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. The number of South Africans in the RFC eventually reached approximately 3,000 men and suffered 260 active-duty fatalities over the Somme during the war. Forty-six pilots became fighter aces. Founding and the inter-war period : 49 of these aircraft were donated to South Africa as part of the Imperial Gift 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 its Dominions. As part of this donation, which was to become known as the Imperial Gift, South Africa received a total of 113 aircraft from both the British Government (100 aircraft) as well as from other sources (13 aircraft). The first operational deployment of the newly formed Air Force was to quell internal dissent, when in 1922 a miner'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. The SAAF was again deployed to suppress the Bondelzwart Rebellion at Kalkfontein between 29 May and 3 July 1922. Second World War , one of the earliest bombers for South Africa At the outbreak of the Second 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 of South African Airways: 18 Junkers Ju 86Z-ls for maritime patrols and eleven Junkers Ju 52s for transport purposes. SAAF maritime patrols commenced on 21 September 1939 with 16 Squadron flying three JU-86Z's from Walvis Bay. had been established, eventually consisting of 6, 10, 22, 23, 25, 27 and 29 Squadrons. 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. These deployments prompted Allied action and on 13 May 1940, 1 Squadron pilots were sent to Cairo to take delivery of 18 Gloster Gladiators and to fly them south to Kenya, for operations in East Africa. 11 Squadron, equipped with Hawker Hartebeests, followed to Nairobi on 19 May 1940 and were joined by the Junkers Ju 86s of 12 Squadron on 22 May 1940. 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 the Desert Air Force/Tactical Air Force "cab-rank" technique which were used extensively for close air support during 1943–1945. 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. Western Desert and North Africa (centre), who was the highest scoring ace in the SAAF during the Second World War, and Capt. Andrew Duncan (right) of 5 Squadron SAAF March/April 1942 SAAF fighter, bomber, and reconnaissance squadrons played a key role in the Western Desert and North African campaigns from 1941 to 1943. The South Africans did however command the respect of their German adversaries. 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. The SAAF also produced a number of SAAF Second World War air aces in the process, including John Frost and Marmaduke Pattle. Madagascar 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 of Madagascar. After much debate and further encouragement by General de Gaulle (who was urging for a Free French operation against Madagascar), Churchill and the Chiefs of Staff agreed to an invasion by means of a strong fleet and adequate air support. In March and April 1942, the SAAF had been conducting reconnaissance flights over Diego-Suarez and 32, 36 and 37 Coastal Flights were withdrawn from South African maritime patrol operations and sent to Lindi on the Indian Ocean coast of Tanzania, with an additional eleven Bristol Beauforts and six Martin Marylands to provide ongoing reconnaissance and close air support for the planned operation – to be known as Operation Ironclad. During the amphibious / air assault carried out by the Royal 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 the Fleet 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. , in Italy August 1944. Sicilian and Italian campaigns 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. Five SAAF squadrons were designated to support the July 1943 invasion of Sicily – 1 Squadron operated combat air patrols over the beaches for the Operation Husky landings 4 and 5 Squadrons provided fighter bomber support during the Sicilian campaign. 30 Squadron (flying as No. 223 Squadron RAF during the campaign) provided light bomber support from Malta and 60 Squadron was responsible for photo reconnaissance flights in support of all Allied forces on the island. 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. Korean War At the outbreak of the Korean War, the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution calling for the withdrawal of North Korean forces in South 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 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 Cmdt S. van Breda Theron DSO, DFC, AFC and included many World War II SAAF veterans. 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 and K-24 airfields at Pyongyang. In January 1953 the squadron returned to Japan for conversion to the USAF F-86F Sabre fighter-bombers. The first Sabre mission was flown on 16 March 1953 from the K-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. 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." This became the Crotale, 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 with 120 Squadron SAAF from 1970 until the late 1980s without any successful combat shootdowns. The SAAF provided air support to the army during the 1975–76 Angola campaign, and in the many cross-border operations that were carried out against PLAN bases in Angola and Zambia 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 of HEU with an estimated yield of 10–18 kilotons designed for delivery by Blackburn Buccaneer or English Electric Canberra aircraft. See History of the South African Air Force#Nuclear and ballistic weapons. At least two MIG-21s of the Angolan Air Force were shot down by 3 Squadron SAAF Mirage F1s in 1981 and 1982. From 1980 to 1984, the command structure was reorganised. Instead of units of the separate Strike Command, Transportation Command SAAF, and Maritime 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, and Southern Air Command SAAF and Western Air Command SAAF for those areas. MTAC was co-located with the Air Force Command Post at Pretoria, with 20 subordinate squadrons (8 reserve). Southern Air Command at Silvermine was allocated nine squadrons (three reserve), based at AFS Port Elizabeth, Cape Town Airport, and AFB Ysterplaat, including 16 Squadron SAAF (Alouettes), 25 Squadron flying Dakotas from Ysterplaat, 27 Squadron SAAF (Piaggio 166), 35 Squadron SAAF (Avro Shackleton), and 88 Maritime Training School. Western Air Command at Windhoek 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 the New York Accords that ended the conflict. The international arms embargo imposed against the then-apartheid government of South Africa, meant that the SAAF was unable to procure modern fighter aircraft to compete with the sophisticated Soviet-supplied air defence network and Cuban Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23s fielded in the latter part of this conflict. South Africa was able to secure the transfer of technology from Israel through the Israel–South Africa Agreement, thereby allowing the Cheetah derivative of the IAI Kfir to be produced. From 1990 with the perceived reduction in threat, SAAF operational strength began to be reduced. The first short term steps entailed the withdrawal of several obsolete aircraft types from service, such as the Canberra B(1)12, the Super Frelon and Westland 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 of 12, 16, 24, 25, and 27 Squadrons. Two Commando squadrons – 103 Squadron SAAF at AFB Bloemspruit and 114 Squadron SAAF at AFB Swartkop – were also disbanded. Air Defence Artillery Group as it was used by the 250 Air Defence Artillery GroupThe 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 of 120, 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 the Tigercat mobile surface-to-air missile system, The Cactus surface-to-air missile system, the ZU-23-2 23mm Anti-Aircraft Gun and the Bofors 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. 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 for Air Force Base Grootfontein in South-West Africa. 129 Squadron was deployed to Air Force Base Ondangwa 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 neighbouring Angola. 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. Major operations During the bush war, the SAAF lost a total of 22 aircraft (1974–1989) to enemy action. A further 11 aircraft were lost in the operational area due to pilot error or malfunction. 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. 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 at Air 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. During this same period it was reported that 18 of the SAAF's AgustaWestland 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. 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. the Air force has several aircraft, aircrew and ground crew on foreign deployments. Three Rooivalk attack helicopters from 16 Squadron SAAF and five or six 15, 17, 19 and/or 22 Squadron SAAF's Oryx transport helicopters were stationed in Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as part of the United 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-strong United Nations Force Intervention Brigade (FIB) and they have flown several sorties against rebel factions who are operating in North Kivu province, particularly the notorious M23 militia group who were routed from their strongholds after an offensive by the UN Force Intervention Brigade and the Military of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. in preparation for the 2010 World Cup Several 28 Squadron SAAF C-130BZ Hercules aircraft also regularly flew to Sudan, DR Congo and Uganda, including Lubumbashi, Kinshasa, Goma, Beni, Bunia and Entebbe, 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 the South African Army, and general airlift. A C-47TP Turbo Dakota from 35 Squadron SAAF permanently based in the Mozambican city of Pemba to provide maritime patrol capability for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) counter-piracy mission in the Mozambique Channel, Operation Copper. There is also a Super Lynx from 22 Squadron SAAF operating from the South African Navy frigates whenever they are stationed in the Mozambican channel. The air force also assists Operation Corona from "time to time" by deploying either AgustaWestland AW109 or Atlas Oryx helicopters to its borders. During the 2010 FIFA World Cup the South African National Defence Force was deployed in order to provide security for the event. The air force deployed armed Gripen Fighter aircraft and Hawk advanced trainer aircraft to conduct air patrols to monitor air traffic. Rooivalk, Atlas Oryx and AgustaWestland AW109 helicopters were also deployed during the event. It was also reported by the Afrikaans daily newspaper, Beeld, that on 23 March 2013 when the Séléka rebel group attempted to take power in the Central African Republic by invading the capital of Bangui, four armed Gripen Fighter aircraft from 2 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. The air force was also tasked with maintaining national security before and during the funeral procession of former president Nelson Mandela in December 2013. Several SAAF helicopters conducted patrols over Pretoria while the former president's body was lying in state in the days leading up to the funeral. Gripen fighter aircraft, armed with IRIS-T missiles and Digital Joint Reconnaissance Pods, conducted combat air patrols to enforce a no-fly zone for several days over certain areas in Gauteng province and later during the funeral itself over Qunu, in the Eastern Cape. Two Gripens were also tasked with escorting a C-130BZ aircraft, which was carrying President Mandela's body from Air Force Base Waterkloof to the Mthatha Airport. Five Gripens, three Oryx helicopters and the 6 Pilatus PC-7's of the Silver Falcons performed a flypast in a final salute to the late former president. On 12 September 2014, a church hostel collapsed within the compound of the Synagogue, Church of All Nations in Lagos, Nigeria. More than 100 persons died in the collapse, among them 85 South Africans. President Jacob 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 SAAF Hercules C-130 on 22 September 2014. Due to a lack of airlift capacity, an Antonov aircraft from Maximus Aero was chartered in order to repatriate the bodies of 74 victims, which arrived on 15 November 2014. 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. In 2002 Musa Mbhokota became the SAAF's first black jet fighter pilot. In March 2017 Nandi Zama became for first black woman in SAAF history to command and fly a Hercules C-130 cargo plane. 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. 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. As of March 2025, only six aircraft in total are reported to be in working order. {{Cite web |last= Qodashe |first= Zoleka | title=SA Airforce's underutilisation of aircraft spells vulnerability, Parly hears ==Symbols==

Ensign Roundels Rank insignia 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 with international forms of rank". 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. ;Officers ;Warrant officers 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. ;Other ranks SAAF medals and decorations A new set of emblems, medals and decorations were introduced on 29 April 2003, although medals issued by the SADF can still be worn. Unit emblems Air force bases Flying squadrons Reserve squadrons Other flying units Security squadrons Engineering support units Air defence artillery units Command and control units 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. Training units Support units ==Order of battle, bases squadrons and equipment==

Bases Squadrons == Aircraft ==

Air combat Gripen The Saab JAS 39 Gripen is the South African Air Force's primary multi-role fighter and air-defence aircraft, acquired under the 1999 Strategic Defence Package to replace the ageing fleet of 68 Atlas Cheetahs and 48 Dassault Mirage F1s that had served since the Border War era. Entering service between 2008 and 2012, the Gripen introduced modern supersonic performance, advanced avionics, network-centric capability, and sophisticated electronic warfare systems to the SAAF. 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. The SAAF currently operates a total of 26 Gripens (17 single-seat C models, 9 two-seat D models); the aircraft are flown by 2 Squadron at AFB Makhado, with pilot and systems training conducted by the Gripen D Operational Conversion Unit (OCU). The Gripen entered service equipped with the IRIS-T short-range air-to-air missile (SRAAM), a German-led multinational dogfighting weapon chosen as an interim solution until the locally developed Denel Dynamics V3E A-Darter enters service. Although the Cheetah previously carried the R-Darter beyond-visual-range (BVR) missile, the R-Darter was never integrated onto the Gripen because it was considered obsolete in South African service. As a result, the SAAF has had no operational BVR capability since the R-Darter's retirement. The SAAF has also explored an indigenous cruise missile capability under the MUPSOW (Multi-Purpose Stand-Off Weapon) programme, although its operational status remains unconfirmed and possibly classified. Operationally, the Gripen has been deployed for border safeguarding, regional standby force commitments, and airspace protection during major national events, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup. It was also deployed during the 2013 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 in Zambia, a necessity following the retirement of the SAAF's five-strong Boeing KC-707 tanker fleet, but ultimately arrived too late to participate in combat operations. 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. Hawk The BAE Systems Hawk Mk 120 serves as the South African Air Force's lead-in fighter trainer (LIFT) with integrated combat capability, ordered under the 1999 Strategic Defence Package to replace the Impala Mk II and to bridge the gap between basic flight training and frontline Gripen operations. 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's fighter pilot pipeline, serving as the intermediate step before deployment on the Gripen. The Hawk fleet is operated by 85 Combat Flying School at AFB Makhado, where it provides Phase III/IV advanced jet training for pilots destined for 2 Squadron. In addition to its training function, the Hawk is capable of performing secondary missions such as light attack, close air support, and tactical reconnaissance, using a 30 mm ADEN cannon, precision-guided weapons, and air-to-air missiles. 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. Intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) Milkor 380 The Milkor 380 is the South African Air Force's first medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), developed by the privately owned South African defence company Milkor to provide an independent surveillance 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. Five systems have been ordered for evaluation under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Defence, with several airframes already undergoing testing under SAAF oversight; the first initial fleet of five is expected to enter service by the end of 2025, marking a major step toward operational integration. Designed for multi-role employment, the Milkor 380 is capable of deploying a range of precision-guided munitions, laser-guided missiles, and a new prototype Milkor-developed missile currently undergoing testing. The platform incorporates ARGOS II HDT electro-optical/infrared sensors with laser-designation capability, redundant LOS and BLOS datalink systems, autonomous take-off and landing, and modular payload bays that support SIGINT pods, electronic-warfare suites, and other multi-mission ISR equipment. A strategic MoU with South Korea's Hanwha Systems enables the integration of an active electronically scanned array (AESA) synthetic aperture radar (SAR), providing all-weather imaging and significantly enhancing its operational versatility. 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 generation Milkor 780 high-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. Cessna 208 The Cessna 208 Caravan forms the core of the South African Air Force’s intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) capability, filling the gap left by the retirement of the Seeker Mk I UAVs in 2004. Originally acquired as liaison and utility aircraft, 11 airframes were upgraded and converted for electronic warfare (EW) under Project Koiler in 2007, receiving the Argos 410-Z electro-optical system, which includes a thermal 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-effective airborne surveillance and reconnaissance platform. Operated by 41 Squadron, they conduct border safeguarding, internal land surveillance, and limited maritime 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. File:Milkor 380.jpg|Milkor 380 File:SAAF Cessna Caravan I 3003 (6910827489).jpg|Cessna 208 Air mobility C-130BZ Hercules The Lockheed Martin C-130BZ Hercules serves as the South African Air Force's primary tactical airlift platform, flown by 28 Squadron at AFB 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 the United States under the Excess Defense Articles programme—two ex-USAF C-130Bs (408 and 409) and three ex-USN C-130Fs. 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. In 2025, it was reported that six aircraft (401, 402, 405, 406, 408, and 409) remain capable of being made airworthy—the SAAF once operated nine serviceable C-130BZs, but two were written off due to accidents and another Hercules was cannibalised for parts. The cancellation of the A400M programme in 2009 by then Defence Minister Lindiwe 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 the UK, Germany, France, and Turkey went on to induct the Atlas into service. As of 2025, the SAAF has shifted its focus toward the Embraer C-390 Millennium as a potential successor to the C-130BZ. C-212 Aviocar The CASA C-212 Aviocar is operated by 44 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, and Venda) and has been in SAAF service ever since. Its short 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. Over the years, the King Air fleet has undergone upgrades, including a major refurbishment by Execujet, which installed modern Garmin G1000 avionics systems, overhauled interiors, and conducted structural inspections. 41 Squadron's King Airs are tasked with routine air logistics, airborne operations, and battlefield support, serving in day/night and all-weather conditions. Pilatus PC-12 The Pilatus PC-12 is used by the South African Air Force, based with 41 Squadron at AFB Waterkloof, primarily for personnel movement, VIP transport, and medical 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. File:SAAF C-130.jpg|C-130BZ Hercules File:SAAF C-212-200 8010 (6910679329).jpg|C-212 Aviocar File:King Air ZS-LAY.jpg|Super King Air File:SAAF Pilatus PC12 8030 (6923295305).jpg|Pilatus PC-12 VIP Transport Boeing 737 (BBJ) The Boeing 737, nicknamed Inkwazi and operated by 21 Squadron at AFB Waterkloof, serves as the South African Air Force's primary VIP 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. Citation II The Cessna 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. Falcon 50 The Dassault Falcon 50, with two aircraft in service under 21 Squadron, is used for VIP and executive transport, serving senior government officials and foreign dignitaries. Its tri-jet configuration and extended range offer flexibility for both domestic and continental travel. Falcon 900 Also operated by 21 Squadron, the Dassault 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. File:ZS-RSA B737-300 SAF (4318930775).jpg|Boeing 737 File:Cessna 550 Citation II 7Q-YLF (14033689382).jpg|Citation II File:SAAF Falcon 50 ZS-CAS (6895894739).jpg|Falcon 50 File:SAAF Falcon 900 ZS-NAN (31918246553).jpg|Falcon 900 Maritime patrol C-47-TP Turbo Dakota The C-47-TP Turbo Dakota, operated by 35 Squadron at AFB Ysterplaat, was the South African Air Force's primary maritime patrol and naval surveillance platform for over three decades following its turboprop 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. This modernization program replaced the original piston engines with PT6A-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 and search-and-rescue support in South African territorial waters. The entire fleet has been grounded since 2022 due to the collapse of OEM support, maintenance backlogs, and the expiration of safety-critical systems like fire 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 and EEZ monitoring obligations. Helicopters Rooivalk The Denel Rooivalk is the South African Air Force's home-grown attack helicopter, operated by 16 Squadron at AFB Bloemspruit. Developed by the Atlas Aircraft Corporation (which was later renamed and absorbed into Denel Aviation in 1992, and subsequently restructured as Denel 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. 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. 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 the Mokopa anti-tank missile. Operationally, three Rooivalks were deployed to the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2013 with the UN Force Intervention Brigade, where they conducted their first combat mission on 4 November 2013 against M23 rebel positions and went on to perform extensive close-support and fires missions for MONUSCO. Recognising the risk to the fleet's long-term viability, South Africa's Denel Aeronautics and Turkey's Aselsan signed a collaboration agreement in 2023 to modernise the Rooivalk's avionics suite. The planned upgrade includes a new glass cockpit with larger multifunction displays, digital moving map, upgraded flight-and mission-management systems, enhanced INS/GPS navigation, modern V/UHF and HF radios, an IFF Mode 5/S transponder, 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. Oryx The Atlas Oryx (derivative of the SA 330 Puma), is a medium transport helicopter in the South African Air Force's fleet, principally used by 15, 17, 19, and 22 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. 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. AW109 The AgustaWestland AW109 Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) serves in a light-utility role with the South African Air Force, operated by 15, 17, and 19 Squadrons, as well as the 87 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 in Italy. The AW109 is employed for reconnaissance, liaison, medical evacuation, and command missions, and can also be configured for light-attack roles. 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. BK 117 The MBB/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. 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. Super Lynx The Westland Super Lynx 300 Mk 64 operates in a maritime role with 22 Squadron, embarked on the South African Navy's Valour-class frigates. The four-strong fleet is configured for anti-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. File:Rooivalk in flight (cropped).jpg|AH-2 Rooivalk File:SAAF-Atlas Oryx-001 (cropped).jpg|Atlas Oryx File:SAAF Agusta A109 4001 (6929039335).jpg|AW109 File:SAAF-15 Squadron-BK117-001.jpg|BK 117 File:SAAF Super Lynx 300 Mk 64 192 (6777196416).jpg|Super Lynx Training aircraft 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 of fixed-wing and rotary-wing trainers, combining aircraft, simulators, and squadron-level operational conversion to prepare pilots for frontline service. Basic training The Pilatus PC-7 Mk I, introduced in the 1980s, served as the SAAF's primary basic 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. The PC-7 Mk II Astra, introduced in 2010 through the upgrade of 35 Mk I airframes, is the current basic training aircraft operated by the Central 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. Advanced fast-jet training The Hawk Mk 120, operated by 85 Combat Flying School at AFB Makhado, provides advanced jet training and lead-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. Operational conversion training The dual-seat Gripen D serves as the operational 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. ==Other establishments and units==

, Poland Air Force Memorial 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 outside Pretoria. Air Force Museum 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 outside Pretoria, AFB Ysterplaat in Cape Town and at the Port Elizabeth airport. Swartkop is the largest of the three museum locations, occupying at least five hangars and contains a number of Atlas Cheetahs as well as a Cheetah C flight simulator. Silver Falcons The Silver Falcons are the aerobatic display team of the South African Air Force and are based at Air Force Base Langebaanweg near Cape Town. The Silver Falcons fly the Pilatus 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. Radar coverage 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 the South African National Defence Force, the South 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 by Saab Grintek as well as Tellumat. Air Force Base Overberg in the Western Cape is also equipped with a Doppler tracking radar and is used primarily by the Test Flight and Development Centre SAAF and the Denel Overberg Test Range for aircraft and missile development tests. In the Western Cape there is a radar station at Kapteinskop, jointly used by Air Force Base Langebaanweg and Cape Town International Airport to monitor air traffic. 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). 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 by 140 Squadron SAAF as part of the South African Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing. There are two static radar stations located in Lephalale (Ellisras) and Mariepskop, near Air 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). To mitigate this lack of low-level radar coverage, the Air Force also operates four Plessey Tactical Mobile Radar (TMR) systems (in service with 142 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). When deployed operationally on combat missions and air patrols the aircraft can link their systems to the South 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. Other branches of the South African National Defence Force also operate several radar systems that can assist the South African Air Force. The South African Navy uses four Valour-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. The South 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. Civilian airport radars in all nine provinces as well as the network of South 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. ==Training areas==

Ditholo Training Area 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. The Roodewal Weapons Range Situated in the Limpopo 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. Temporary Air Base Upington Activated only for large scale exercises in the Northern Cape. Dragons Peak Drakensberg In 1985 a satellite base at Dragons Peak, in the Drakensberg was established in order to conduct helicopter mountain flying training. Vastrap 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. Environmental management 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. The following specific management is practiced: • Integrated Training Area Management (ITAM) aims to enhance long term, effective training by implementing management practices for land and aerial ranges to ensure their continued use and minimised environmental damage. • Base Environmental Management (BEM) system proper management of buildings, responsible water and energy use, integrated waste management as well as ensuring cultural and historical resources are properly maintained. • Environment for Operations (ECOps) aims to ensure adverse effects of military activities on the general environment are avoided or mitigated throughout any specific operations. ==Notes==