South African Air Force
South African Air Force | |
---|---|
Per aspera ad astra "Through hardships to the stars"[1] | |
Engagements | |
Website | af.mil.za |
Commanders | |
Cessna Caravan |
The South African Air Force (SAAF) is the
History
First World War
After a visit to observe the 1912 military manoeuvres in Europe, Brig. Gen.
On the outbreak of the
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.[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 the Somme during the war. Forty-six pilots became fighter aces.[12][13]
Founding and the inter-war period
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,[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 Colonel Pierre 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 Blue roundel was added to an Avro 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 a
Second World War
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]
East Africa
In December 1939,
The Kingdom 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 Italian Regia 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 and 60 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 the Desert 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]
Western Desert and North Africa
SAAF fighter, bomber, and reconnaissance squadrons played a key role in the Western Desert and North African campaigns from 1941 to 1943.
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.
Madagascar
In fear of Japanese occupation and subsequent operations in the Indian Ocean in close proximity to South African sea lanes,
During the amphibious / air assault carried out by the
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.[35]
Five SAAF squadrons were designated to support the July 1943 invasion of Sicily –
The South African Air Force participated in the Allied campaigns in the following theaters:
- Italy (1943–45): Wings fought in operations to liberate Italy from German occupation.
- Yugoslavia (1943–44): 7 Wing and 8 Wing supported partisan operations against German occupation forces.
- Balkans (1944–45): Some squadrons served with the Balkan Air Force in operations over Hungary, Romania and Albania.
- Warsaw (1944): 2 Wing air-supplied Warsaw during Warsaw Uprising.
- Greece (1944): 2 Wing supported British operations to liberate Greece and suppress the communist coup.
Other theatres
- Takoradi, Gold Coast, West Africa)
- France (1944): A detachment took part in the Franco-American invasion of southern France.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, etc. (1944–45): 16th South African Air Force Squadron, stationed in Italy, made dozens of air strikes against German forces and collaborators in then Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, etc. during 1944 and 1945. On 6 September 1944, the 16th Squadron bombed Zenica, focusing on bridges.
Mobile Air Force Depot
The Mobile Air Force Depot (MAFD) was based in
Berlin airlift
Post-war, the SAAF also took part in the
Korean War
At the outbreak of the
On completion of conversion training, the squadron was deployed as one of the four USAF
On 30 November the squadron was moved further south to K-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 to K-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 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.[44]
The war ended on 27 July 1953, when the Korean 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 2 Silver Stars, the highest US military award given to foreigners, 3 Legions of Merit, 55 Distinguished Flying Crosses and 40 Bronze 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.
Rhodesian Bush War
The SAAF loaned aircraft and flew occasional covert reconnaissance, transport and combat sorties in support of the
Border War
From 1966 to 1989, the SAAF was committed to the Border War, which was fought in northern South West Africa and surrounding states. At first, it provided limited air support to police operations against the People's Liberation Army of Namibia (the military wing of SWAPO, 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 with
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[48] 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
From 1980 to 1984, the command structure was reorganised. Instead of units of the separate Strike Command,
The SAAF was also heavily involved in the 1987–88 Angola campaign, before the
From 1990 with the perceived reduction in threat, SAAF operational strength began to be reduced.
Air Defence Artillery Group
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]
Major operations
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) awarded HCS 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. Lewer DFC, HCS awarded HCS 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 awarded HC 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]
Since 1994
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 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.[72] 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.[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,
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.[78][79] 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.[80]
During the
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.[82]
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.[83]
On 12 September 2014, a church hostel collapsed within the compound of the
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 the
In 2002 Musa 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]
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
- Officers
Rank group | General/Flag/Air officers | Senior officers | Junior officers | Officer cadet | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
South African Air Force[95] |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
General
|
Lieutenant general | Major general | Brigadier general | Colonel | Lieutenant colonel | Major | Captain | Lieutenant | Second lieutenant | Officer candidate |
- 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.
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 |
- Other ranks
Rank group | Senior NCOs | Junior NCOs | Enlisted | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
South African Air Force[95] |
No insignia | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Warrant officer class 1 | Warrant officer class 2 | Flight sergeant | Sergeant | Corporal | Lance corporal | Aircraftman
|
SAAF medals and decorations
A new set of emblems, medals and decorations were introduced on 29 April 2003,[96] 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
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 to Agusta A109
|
Transport | |
16 Squadron SAAF | AFB Bloemspruit
|
Denel Rooivalk | Attack | 11 Rooivalk Mk I |
17 Squadron SAAF | AFB Waterkloof
|
Atlas Oryx, Agusta A109 | Transport | 4 A109 |
19 Squadron SAAF | AFB Hoedspruit
|
Atlas Oryx, Agusta A109 | Transport | 5 A109 |
21 Squadron SAAF | AFB Waterkloof | VIP Transport | ||
22 Squadron SAAF | AFB Ysterplaat
|
Atlas Oryx, Westland Super Lynx 300
|
Transport | |
28 Squadron SAAF | AFB Waterkloof | Lockheed C-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 CN-235
|
Light Transport | |
60 Squadron SAAF | AFB Waterkloof | No operational aircraft. Planned acquisition of Airbus 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 |
Aircraft
Current inventory
Retired
Previous notable aircraft operated by the SAAF include Atlas Cheetah, Mirage F1, Mirage III, C-130F Hercules.
Retired aircraft see: List of aircraft of the South African Air Force.
Weapon systems
For weapon system no longer in use, see List of obsolete weapon systems of the South African Air Force.
Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing
The Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing (AFMDW) provides combat ready, integrated and deployable air support capabilities to the South 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.
Reserves
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.[109]
Other establishments and units
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;
Silver Falcons
The Silver Falcons are the
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
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
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).[115]
The South African Air Force's
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.[119] 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.[120]
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.[121][122]
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.[123][124]
The Roodewal Weapons Range
Situated in the
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.[127][128][129]
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.
Gallery
Notes
- ^ Alexandersfontein is at 28°48′36″S 24°48′07″E / 28.8101°S 24.802°E
- ^ 30x Avro 504K's; 22x Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5a's; 49x De Havilland DH.9's (one of which was donated by the City of Birmingham); 10x De Havilland DH.4's (donated by the Overseas Club of London); 2x Royal Aircraft Factory B.E.2e's (donated by Maj. Miller Tour)[14]
- No. 3 Wing SAAF (Baheira): (B.1.) 12 Sqn: Light Bomber (Baheira), Boston III's; (B.2.) 24 Sqn: Light Bomber (Baheira), Baltimore I; (B.3.) No. 223 RAF Light Bomber (Baheira) Baltimore I. (C.) No. 223 Wing RAF (Gambut). (C.1.) 4 Sqn: Fighter (Gambut), Tomahawks. (C.2.) 5 Sqn: Fighter (Gambut), Tomahawks. (C.3.) 2 Sqn: Fighter (Gambut), Kittyhawk I.[25]
- ^ These three Maritime Reconnaissance Flights were later combined to form 16 Squadron: 32 Flight consisting of 5 Glenn Martin Maryland Bombers (Maj D Meaker, Officer Commanding); 36 Flight with 6 Bristol Beaufort Bombers (Maj J Clayton, Officer Commanding); 37 Flight with 1 Maryland and 5 Beauforts (Maj K Jones, Officer Commanding)[32]
- ^ 1x Mirage F1AZ, 1x Mirage III R2Z, 1x Canberra, 5x Impala Mk. II, 1x Bosbok, 1x Cessna-185, 4x Puma, 5x Alouette, 3x RPV.[69]
- ^ 3x Impala, 1x Mirage F1AZ, 2x Puma, 1x Kudu, 3x Alouette, 1x Cessna-185.[69]
- ^ Ab initio training is outsourced to a civilian school, Babcock Central Flying Academy of Grand Central Airport using Cessna 172s.[98] The training is done at AFB Swartkop[99]
- ^ As well as others on temporary detachment from squadrons and manufacturers.
References
- ^ "South African Air Force". Corporate Identity. Archived from the original on 7 June 2012. Retrieved 7 June 2012.
- ^ "Curriculum Vitae of Lieutenant General Wiseman S Mbambo, Chief of the South African Air Force". 4 June 2021.
- ^ "The History of the South African Air Force | South African Aviation Foundation Museum". Archived from the original on 28 November 2016. Retrieved 28 November 2016.
- ISBN 0-947478-47-7.
- ^ a b Mahncke, J.E. "Military History Journal Vol 12 No 3 – June 2002". The South African Aviation Corps (SAAC). South African Military History Society. Archived from the original on 19 December 2011. Retrieved 25 February 2012.
- ISBN 1-874800-22-7.
- ^ L'Ange (1991), p. 273.
- ^ Becker (1991), p. 15.
- ^ Becker (1991), p. 17.
- ^ "Air of Authority – A History of RAF Organisation". No 26 Squadron History. Archived from the original on 18 March 2012. Retrieved 25 February 2012.
- ^ Becker (1991), p. 19.
- ISBN 0-948817-19-4.
- ISBN 9781898697565.
- ^ a b c Becker (1991), p. 25.
- ^ Becker (1991), p. 29.
- ^ a b c d e "History of the South African Air Force". Archived from the original on 5 May 2012. Retrieved 2 March 2012.
- ^ Becker (1991), p. 33.
- ^ a b Wessels, Andre (June 2000). "South African Military History Journal: Vol. 11 No. 5". The first two years of war: The development of the Union Defence Forces (UDF) September 1939 to September 1941. The South African Military History Society. Archived from the original on 17 February 2012. Retrieved 7 March 2012.
- ^ "The South African Air Force (Unofficial)". 16 Squadron. SAAF.co.za. Archived from the original on 1 May 2012. Retrieved 7 March 2012.
- ISBN 0-86843-025-0.
- ^ a b c Becker (1991), p. 67.
- ^ Becker (1991), p. 71.
- ISBN 0-02-616970-3.
- ^ Becker (1991), p. 75.
- ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 21 September 2013. Retrieved 10 March 2012.
{{cite web}}
: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) - ^ Shores, Christopher; Ring, Hans (1969). Fighters over the Desert: The Air Battles in the Western Desert: June 1940 to December 1942. New York: Arco. p. 219. sbm: 668-02070-9.
- ^ Shores (1969), p. 233.
- ^ Brown, James Ambrose (1974). Eagles Strike: The Campaigns of the South African Air Force in Egypt, Cyrenaica, Libya, Tunisia, Tripolitania and Madagascar: 1941 – 1943. Cape Town: Purnell. p. 382.
- ^ Tidy, D. P. (June 1968). "South African Military History Journal Vol. 1 No. 2". South African Air Aces of World War II. South African Military History Society. Archived from the original on 11 May 2012. Retrieved 10 March 2012.
- OCLC 42990496.
- OCLC 396148.
- ^ a b c Clayton, J.A. (December 1992). "South African Military History Journal Vol. 9 No. 2". The South African Air Force in the Madagascar Campaign, 1942. South African Military History Society. Archived from the original on 24 January 2012. Retrieved 11 March 2012.
- ^ Turner (1961), p. 133.
- ^ Wessels, Andre (June 1996). "South African Military History Journal Vol. 10 No. 3". South Africa and the War against Japan 1941–1945. South African Military History Society. Archived from the original on 18 February 2012. Retrieved 13 March 2012.
- ^ a b c Becker (1991), p. 125.
- ^ "Squadron 2". GlobalSecurity.org. Archived from the original on 30 August 2011. Retrieved 18 July 2009.
- ^ Rickard, J. "History of War". No. 4 Squadron (SAAF): Second World War. Archived from the original on 16 November 2012. Retrieved 14 September 2011.
- ^ Dyason, Anton. "IMG (IPMS SA Media Group)". 5 Squadron. Archived from the original on 2 April 2012. Retrieved 13 March 2012.
- ^ "Historic Squadrons". 223 Squadron. Royal Air Force. Archived from the original on 18 August 2017. Retrieved 2 February 2012.
- ^ "The Airforce Squadrons". 60 Squadron. South African Air Force (Unofficial). Archived from the original on 15 March 2012. Retrieved 13 March 2012.
- ISBN 0-8444-0796-8. Retrieved 28 February 2012.
- ^ Laurent, PARRA. "SQUADRON 2 - SAAF - Flying Cheetahs". cieldegloire.com. Archived from the original on 2 July 2017. Retrieved 19 July 2017.
- ^ a b c d e Moore, D.M. "Military History Journal – Vol 6 No 3 – June 1984". The South African Air Force in Korea: An Assessment. The South African Military History Society. Archived from the original on 11 May 2012. Retrieved 4 May 2012.
- ^ a b c d e f "SAAF.co.za (Unofficial SAAF Website)". The Airforce: Korea. Archived from the original on 1 May 2012. Retrieved 4 May 2012.
- ^ "South Africa in the Korean War". Department of Defense. Archived from the original on 1 November 2006.
- ^ "Jane's Information Group". Crotale/Shahine/R440, R460, VT-1 (France), Defensive weapons. Archived from the original on 27 January 2013. Retrieved 16 August 2012.
- ^ IISS Military Balance 1997/98, p. 259, still lists 20 Crotale in service. May have been inaccurately retained in IISS listings long after the missile was retired.
- ^ "Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI)". Nuclear Disarmament South Africa. Archived from the original on 6 February 2013. Retrieved 11 June 2012.
- ISBN 0-620-24116-0.
- ^ 'Life at 50 Feet,' Flight International, 19 January 1985.
- ^ Drawn from SAAF official website.
- ^ Wingrin, Dean. "Cactus (Crotale) SAM". SAAF.co.za. Archived from the original on 2 May 2014. Retrieved 2 May 2014.
- ^ Wingrin, Dean. "Hilda (Tigercat) Sam". SAAF.co.za. Archived from the original on 1 May 2012. Retrieved 2 May 2014.
- ISBN 951-624-247-2.
- ^ "SAAF Museum – Cactus restoration". af.mil.za. 16 May 2007. Archived from the original on 2 May 2014. Retrieved 2 May 2014.
- ISBN 978-1-874800-11-8.
- ^ Lord (2008), p. 493.
- ^ Lord (2008), p. 495.
- ISBN 978-1-920143-30-5.
- ^ a b Bagshaw (1990), pp. 258.
- ^ Lord (2008), p. 496.
- ^ Lord (2008), p. 188.
- ^ Lord (2003), p. 250.
- ^ Lord (2008), pp. 396–403.
- ^ Lord (2008), p. 405.
- ^ Lord (2008), p. 416.
- ISBN 0-620-30762-5.
- ^ a b Lord (2008), p. 498.
- ^ a b c Lord (2008), pp. 499–500.
- ^ a b c "Sentinel Security Assessment – Southern Africa". Air Force: South Africa. Jane's Defence Review. Archived from the original on 27 January 2013. Retrieved 9 July 2012.
- ^ "News 24". Gripen won't fly required hours. News24. Archived from the original on 18 March 2012. Retrieved 9 July 2012.
- ^ "SAAF says Gripens being rotated, not stored". DefenceWeb. 9 September 2013. Archived from the original on 15 October 2013. Retrieved 15 October 2013.
- ^ Wingrin, Dean (6 November 2013). "A109 LUH conversion course resumes – defenceWeb". defenceweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ "The South African Air Force has already allocated $137m for Rooivalk Attack Helicopter production. - Image - Airforce Technology". airforce-technology.com. Archived from the original on 28 November 2016. Retrieved 21 July 2017.
- ^ Mataboge, Mmanaledi (7 November 2013). "SA revels in M23's defeat following its CAR debacle". Mail & Guardian. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ Hofstatter, Stephan. "Rooivalk plays key role in routing rebels". Sunday Times (Johannesburg). Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ Helfrich, Kim (12 March 2014). "South African expertise and equipment again adds value to UN DRC operations – defenceWeb". defenceweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ Martin, Guy (17 April 2013). "Five of nine SAAF Hercules serviceable – defenceWeb". defenceweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ "28 Squadron". af.mil.za. Archived from the original on 22 September 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ Helfrich, Kim (17 April 2014). "Air Force doing its bit for border protection and counter-piracy – defenceWeb". defenceweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ Wingrin, Dean. "The South African Air Force". saairforce.co.za. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ Martin, Guy (27 May 2013). "Rooivalks, Gripens and additional troops were sent to the CAR – defenceWeb". defenceweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ "Gripen fighters to fly over Qunu". Independent Online. South Africa. Archived from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ a b "Nigeria church collapse: Last remains arrive home". enca.com. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ Bates, Erin. "Gallery: Church collapse survivors land in SA". enca.com. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ "Nigeria church collapse: 74 bodies coming home". enca.com. Archived from the original on 14 May 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ "defenceWeb shines at Air Capability Demonstration". Mail & Guardian (Press release). 20 May 2013. Archived from the original on 2 May 2014. Retrieved 7 November 2016.
- ^ "Swartkops SAAF Museum Airshow (2014-05-09)". infozone.tv. Archived from the original on 2 May 2014. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ "New boss for AFB Overberg". saairforce.co.za. defenceWeb. 28 November 2016. Archived from the original on 11 January 2018. Retrieved 10 January 2018.
- ^ "Major Nandi Zama Becomes 1st Black Woman to Command C-130 Military Cargo Plane - SAPeople - Your Worldwide South African Community". SAPeople - Your Worldwide South African Community. 28 March 2017. Archived from the original on 8 May 2017. Retrieved 4 June 2018.
- ^ "Reduced availability of aircraft negatively affecting SAAF flying hours". defenceWeb. 19 August 2021. Retrieved 17 February 2022.
- ^ "SAAF inks deal with Saab to get Gripen fighters back in the air".
- ^ Martin, Guy (2022). "Gripen back in the air as Saab awarded maintenance contract". Defence Web. Retrieved 17 October 2022.
- ^ "SAAF Rank Insignia". Af.mil.za. Archived from the original on 21 March 2009. Retrieved 20 June 2012.
- ^ a b "Rank Insignia". af.mil.za. Department of Defence (South Africa). Archived from the original on 1 January 2019. Retrieved 29 May 2021.
- ^ "The Air force – Medals and Decorations". pp. SAAFCoZAMedals. Archived from the original on 2 March 2012. Retrieved 4 March 2012.
- ^ "Air Force Bases and Unit". South African Air Force. Archived from the original on 28 June 2008. Retrieved 4 August 2008.
- ^ "The South African Air Force". Saairforce.co.za. Archived from the original on 17 March 2010. Retrieved 20 June 2012.
- ^ "– Ad Astra Volume 30 number 2 2010 Page 3" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 26 June 2012. Retrieved 20 June 2012.
- ^ "The South African Air Force". www.saairforce.co.za. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
- ^ "Fact file: BAE Systems Hawk Mk120 | defenceWeb". 15 February 2010. Retrieved 29 February 2024.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j "SAAF". Flightglobal Insight. 2023. Retrieved 26 May 2022.
- ^ a b c d "squadrons 21". Flightglobal Insight. 2017. Retrieved 4 July 2017.
- ^ "Armscor details SAAF C-130BZ Hercules upgrade progress | defenceWeb". 26 October 2023. Retrieved 29 February 2024.
- ^ "South African troops in the DRC, Mozambique at risk without helicopter maintenance contract | defenceWeb". 20 February 2024. Retrieved 29 February 2024.
- ^ Helfrich, Kim (2022). "Defence Minister taken to task for "broken" SANDF". Defence Web. Retrieved 17 October 2022.
- ^ "South African troops in the DRC, Mozambique at risk without helicopter maintenance contract | defenceWeb". 20 February 2024. Retrieved 29 February 2024.
- ^ Martin, Guy (25 November 2022). "First Milkor UAVs destined for South African use". defenceWeb. Retrieved 27 February 2023.
- ^ "South African Air Force official website". Air Force Reserves. South African Air Force. Archived from the original on 13 February 2012. Retrieved 13 March 2012.
- ^ "Grintek wins South African Air Force AFRAS maintenance order". saairforce.co.za. Archived from the original on 2 May 2014. Retrieved 2 May 2014.
- ^ "Test Flight and Development Centre". af.mil.za. Archived from the original on 15 December 2012. Retrieved 2 May 2014.
- ^ "IOL – News for South Africa and the world". Archived from the original on 13 December 2014. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
- ^ Campbell, Keith. "Limpopo Air Force Base is also an Aero Technology Hub". Engineering News. Archived from the original on 2 May 2014. Retrieved 2 May 2014.
- ^ Engelbrecht, Leon (25 August 2011). "Tellumat looking after Umlindi". DefenceWeb.co.za. DefenceWeb. Archived from the original on 15 July 2014. Retrieved 2 July 2014.
- ^ a b Campbell, Keith. "SAAF Mobile Deployment Wing core to air defence and peacekeeping missions". Engineering News. Archived from the original on 4 July 2013. Retrieved 2 May 2014.
- ^ "Defense & Security Intelligence & Analysis: IHS Jane's – IHS". Retrieved 24 December 2014.
- ISBN 9781557502681. Archivedfrom the original on 20 March 2015. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
- ^ Wingrin, Dean. "The SAAF, the World Cup and Gripen". Archived from the original on 2 May 2014. Retrieved 2 May 2014.
- ^ "Valour-class Frigates". navy.mil.za. Archived from the original on 17 July 2012. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ Engelbrecht, Leon (26 July 2010). "SA Army a small steps closer to GBADS II – defenceWeb". defenceweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ Nthoiwa, Jacob (31 March 2010). "Hi-tech radar network lands in SA". itweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 7 November 2016. Retrieved 6 November 2016.
- ^ "Forecast" (PDF). Archived (PDF) from the original on 3 May 2014. Retrieved 2 May 2014.
- ^ Wingrin, Dean. "The South African Air Force". saairforce.co.za. Archived from the original on 22 March 2015. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
- ^ "Waterkloof Air Force Base". Airforce Technology. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
- ^ Helfrich, Kim (25 October 2013). "SAAF struts it stuff in style at Air Capability Demonstration | defenceWeb". www.defenceweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 23 September 2015. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
- ^ "AFB Makhado hosts Air Power Capability Demonstration at Roodewal". af.mil.za. Archived from the original on 5 March 2016. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
- ^ "SAAF ECO pages". af.mil.za. Archived from the original on 5 March 2016. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
- ^ "Equus June 2004" (PDF). DOD Environmental Services. Archived (PDF) from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 7 November 2016.
- ^ Helfrich, Kim (9 January 2014). "Top honours for the SAAF at DoD environmental awards | defenceWeb". www.defenceweb.co.za. Archived from the original on 23 September 2015. Retrieved 26 October 2016.
Bibliography
- Green, William and Gordon Swanborough. "Annals of the Gauntlet". Air Enthusiast Quarterly, No. 2, n.d., pp. 163–176. ISSN 0143-5450
- Spring, Ivan. "Springbok Jet Age: The Gloster Meteor III in SAAF service". Air Enthusiast, No. 55, Autumn 1994, pp. 8–12. ISSN 0143-5450
External links
- Official South African Air Force website Archived 5 July 2020 at the Wayback Machine (website currently inactive)
- Unofficial South African Air Force website
- SAAF ejection seat history