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SANParks Rangers Disrupt Major Abalone Poaching Operation in Tsitsikamma Marine Protected Area
SANParks rangers have successfully disrupted a significant illegal abalone poaching operation within the Tsitsikamma Marine Protected Area (MPA) resulting in the arrest of two suspects, the recovery of large quantities of abalone and the seizure of diving equipment used in the illicit activity. The operation unfolded on 13 April 2026 at approximately 16:00 during a routine patrol conducted by rangers in the vicinity of the western side of the Bloukrans River near the
Operation PROSPER Joint Parade Targets Illegal Mining in Welkom
Security forces assembled in Welkom for an operational parade ahead of Operation PROSPER, a coordinated initiative aimed at addressing illegal mining activities in the Free State. Led by the Joint Tactical Headquarters of the Free State, the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to restore law and order in affected mining regions. The initiative brings together multiple security structures in a unified response to a growing national concern. The South African National Defence
Saab Secures SEK 2.6 Billion Order for Advanced Counter-UAS System from Sweden
Saab has received a major order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) for a mobile and modular counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) designed to protect the Swedish Armed Forces and critical civil infrastructure from drone threats. The order, valued at approximately SEK 2.6 billion, covers deliveries scheduled for 2027–2028. The advanced system, developed in partnership with the Swedish Armed Forces and FMV, provides a cost-efficient layered defence against modern unmanned aerial threats. It
SAPS Special Task Force Wows Crowds with New Generation APC at Rand Show
The highly trained elite unit of the South African Police Service, the Special Task Force (STF), was a showstopper at this year’s Rand Easter Show, drawing crowds of all ages to its outdoor display. Patrons were captivated as they got up close to high-precision weaponry and the STF’s latest operational equipment. A highlight of the display was the STF’s New Generation Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), also known as the “New Generation Nyala.” This
![[WATCH] China condemns Philippine ships at scarborough shoal](https://defencenetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/22-sept-china-phillipines-dn.jpg)
SA Navy Festival Sets Sail for Simon’s Town with Warships, Air Displays and Family Activities
Cape Town’s most unique maritime open day is back as the 2026 SA Navy Festival takes over the East Dockyard at Simon’s Town Naval Base from Friday 17 April to Sunday 19 April. Entry is free and the event runs daily from 10:00 to 17:00. Billed as a premier maritime event on the national calendar the festival gives the public a rare opportunity to step inside one of South Africa’s most historic naval
Nigerian Navy, Spain Strengthen Maritime Security Through Exercise Coastal Grip
The Nigerian Navy and Spanish maritime forces have reinforced bilateral defence cooperation through the successful execution of Exercise Coastal Grip, a joint maritime security training activity aimed at improving interoperability, operational readiness and response to evolving threats in West African waters. The exercise brought together naval personnel from both nations to conduct coordinated operations focused on maritime domain awareness, anti-piracy tactics, boarding procedures and search-and-rescue scenarios. The collaboration reflects a growing emphasis on
French Jeanne d’Arc Naval Mission Strengthens Ties in Cape Town
The French Navy’s Jeanne d’Arc mission recently made a stop in Cape Town, reinforcing longstanding ties between France and South Africa. The Jeanne d’Arc mission is an annual deployment dedicated to training French naval officer cadets while combining operational experience with international engagement. On board the amphibious assault ship cadets continue their at-sea training programme, gaining exposure to maritime operations, navigation and joint exercises. The vessel also carried NH90 helicopters, providing operational capability
INS Trikand Strengthens Maritime Ties with Kenya During Indian Ocean Deployment
The Indian Navy’s stealth frigate INS Trikand arrived in Mombasa, Kenya, on 7 April 2026 as part of its ongoing operational deployment in the South West Indian Ocean Region. The port call underscores India’s continued commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships and enhancing security cooperation with key regional partners along critical sea lines of communication. The visit coincided with the presence of Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command
Morocco Expands Apache Fleet and Modern Strike Capability
Morocco has received a second batch of six Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, increasing its operational fleet to 12 aircraft. The delivery forms part of a 24-unit programme signed in 2020 and marks a key step toward building a sustained, modern attack aviation capability built around precision strike, networking and interoperability. The AH-64E Apache Guardian is among the most advanced attack helicopters in service. It combines sensors, secure data links and precision-guided weapons
Togo boosts air mobility with Polish helicopter acquisition
The Togo Air Force has taken delivery of new Polish-built helicopters now stationed at its base in Lomé strengthening the country’s ability to respond to internal security threats and counter-insurgency operations. The fleet includes at least one PZL W-3 Sokół and a modernised PZL Mi-2Plus both produced by PZL-Świdnik a subsidiary of Leonardo. Under the leadership of Agnidoufey Mamah the aircraft are already operational. These helicopters complement Togo’s existing Russian-built fleet including the
Rheinmetall and Boeing Australia Partner on MQ-28 for Germany’s CCA Programme
Rheinmetall AG and Boeing Defence Australia have announced a strategic partnership to offer the MQ-28 Ghost Bat as a solution for the Bundeswehr Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) requirement, with entry into service targeted by 2029. Developed in Australia for the Royal Australian Air Force and allied partners, the MQ-28 has already surpassed 150 test flights. Designed as an autonomous force multiplier, the platform is intended to operate alongside crewed aircraft, delivering enhanced combat
Lieutenant General Carl Moatshe: Leading the South African Air Force into a New Era
Lieutenant General Carl Moatshe has officially assumed command of the South African Air Force (SAAF), following a historic Change of Command parade at the Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing Swartkop on 31 March 2026. The ceremony marked the transition from outgoing Chief Lieutenant General Wiseman Mbambo to his successor, Lieutenant General Moatshe and drew a distinguished audience including the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, the Military Command Council, the Air
Minister Motshekga Visits Denel Landward Systems to Review Progress and Innovation
Military bases breached: SANDF facilities overrun by land invasions
Rheinmetall and Boeing Australia Partner on MQ-28 for Germany’s CCA Programme
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