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South African National Defence Force to Showcase Capabilities at Rand Show 2026
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will participate in the 2026 Rand Show, taking place from 2 to 6 April 2026 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in NASREC. The SANDF will use this iconic event to educate the public, raise awareness of its role and bring the Defence Force closer to citizens. Visitors will gain insights into a variety of career and training opportunities, the SANDF’s social responsibility initiatives and the department’s
AMD Marks 35 years as the voice of the South African defence industry
The Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Industry Association (AMD) has reached a significant milestone, marking 35 years as the unified voice of South Africa’s defence sector — a journey that reflects both resilience and strategic influence within a complex and evolving industry. Founded to represent companies across the aerospace, maritime and defence value chains, AMD has, over more than three decades, positioned itself as a critical bridge between industry and government. Its role has
SA Army College Graduates First Military Planners Course
On 19 March 2026, the SA Army College hosted a certificate ceremony for the inaugural Military Planners Course, marking a significant step in professional development for the South African National Defence Force. The ceremony began with scripture and a prayer led by Chaplain S. Zungu who encouraged learners to uphold integrity and diligence in their work. Warrant Officer Class 1 N.F. Mafagane facilitated the proceedings while Second Lieutenant Munyai read the SANDF Code
Commemorating Liberation: Russia and South Africa Honour the Legacy of the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale
On 23 March 2026, the Ambassador of Russia to South Africa, H.E. Ilya Ambarov, took part in a commemorative event marking the celebration of South Africa’s Liberation Day and the 38th anniversary of the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale. The event was held at Freedom Park, a significant historical and memorial complex in Pretoria. The keynote address was delivered by Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe. Among the attendees were Nomvula
![[WATCH] China condemns Philippine ships at scarborough shoal](https://defencenetwork.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/22-sept-china-phillipines-dn.jpg)
SAS Amatola Conducts Goodwill Visit to Shanghai
The South African Navy frigate SAS Amatola arrived in Shanghai, China on 15 March, commencing a five-day goodwill visit that underscores growing maritime cooperation between South Africa and China. The visit marks the vessel’s first port call to Shanghai and only the second visit by a South African Navy ship to China since 2008. The arrival of Amatola, a Valour-class frigate, highlights continued naval diplomacy efforts by South Africa as it seeks to
Leadership Transition at SA Naval College
The SA Naval College recently marked the conclusion of a 15-month tenure as Rear Admiral (Junior Grade) Judy Rustin-Patrick handed over command to Captain Moses Tabo during a Change of Command Parade held on Thursday, 5 March 2026. The parade, held on the Naval College grounds, was attended by the Navy Command Council, Officers Commanding, masters and coxswains of various units, and distinguished local stakeholders. The ceremony served as both a reflection on
Indonesian Navy Warship Visits Cape Town in Rare Diplomatic Port Call
The Indonesian Navy’s landing platform dock KRI Prabu Siliwangi (321) conducted a notable port visit to Cape Town from 4 to 7 March while returning to Indonesia following activities in Italy. The visit marked the first time in nearly three decades that an Indonesian naval vessel has called at the South African port highlighting growing maritime engagement between the two nations. The arrival of the vessel provided an opportunity for diplomatic and naval
South African Navy Strengthens Ties with Indian Navy
The South African Navy (SAN) is deepening its strategic and professional relationship with the Indian Navy through a mix of operational deployments, leadership engagements and specialised training exchanges. This partnership was highlighted in February 2026 when the SAN frigate SAS AMATOLA visited Visakhapatnam, India, to participate in Exercise MILAN 2026 and the International Fleet Review 2026, hosted by the Indian Navy. The deployment formed part of a broader multinational engagement programme uniting naval
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
Joint Training Supports Border Security Operations
In a recent demonstration of the synergy between air and ground forces, members of the 10 South African Infantry Battalion, deployed under Joint Tactical Headquarters Free State, took part in a series of integrated activities that combined live operational duties with advanced training. Working alongside 87 Helicopter Flying School, which is currently conducting helicopter training for Agusta 109 pilots, the exercise provided invaluable hands-on experience for both pilots and soldiers. The programme is
NAF Strengthens Global Training Partnerships Through Strategic Canadian Visit
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) continues to advance its operational capability and global profile under the leadership of Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS). In a decisive move to strengthen international defence cooperation, Air Marshal Aneke led a high-level NAF delegation on a strategic visit to two premier aviation institutions in Canada: The International Test Pilots School and the International Tactical Training Centre, both located in London, Ontario.
New Chief for the South African Airforce
The South African Air Force (SAAF) will see a significant leadership change as Maj Gen Carl Moatshe is appointed and substantively promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General, taking office as Chief of the Air Force effective 01 April 2026. He succeeds Lt Gen W.S. Mbambo, who will retire on 31 March 2026 after distinguished service. Maj Gen Moatshe, a former C-130 pilot with 28 Squadron, former Officer Commanding of Airforce Base Ysterplaat
Nextorch Africa Boosts Tactical Equipment Support for South Africa’s Security Sector
Presidency publishes Lady R report but new questions arise over UAE involvement
Alpine Armoring rolls out next-Gen Pit-Bull VXT tactical truck
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