Exercise VUKUHLOME IV marked a significant milestone for the South African Army on Wednesday 26 November 2025 as the Pride of Lions Combat Training Centre in Lohatlha hosted an exceptional Distinguished Visitors Day. The event brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders from the civil-military, executive, legislative and military diplomatic communities both domestic and international who witnessed a powerful demonstration of joint operational capability.
Throughout the day the South African Army, supported by the South African Air Force (SAAF), the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS), the Military Police Division and the South African Police Service (SAPS) executed a complex and highly coordinated display of manoeuvre warfare. A major highlight was the strong aerial component contributed by the SAAF, featuring three Hawk Mk120s from 85 Combat Flying School, two Gripens from 2 Squadron, a CASA 212-300 from 44 Squadron and an Oryx helicopter from 17 Squadron. These aircraft supported ground forces with simulated strikes, reconnaissance, mobility and air-to-ground coordination, underscoring the SANDF’s joint-force integration.
The scenario showcased mechanised forces, infantry elements, tactical aviation, medical support and policing cooperation that illustrated the SANDF’s ability to execute unified land and air operations. The execution reflected months of preparation and reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to maintaining a combat-ready posture.
One of the most significant moments of the event was the formal handover of the Combat Readiness Certificate of the Rapid Deployment Brigade. Chief of the South African Army Lieutenant General L.K. Mbatha presented the certificate to Chief of the SANDF General R. Maphwanya, symbolising the Brigade’s readiness to deploy rapidly in response to national, regional and continental security commitments. This symbolic act, performed in the presence of the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans the Honourable M.A. Motshekga underscored the SANDF’s pledge to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.
Minister Motshekga delivered heartfelt remarks acknowledging the professionalism on display while recognising the financial challenges faced by the Department of Defence.
She stated:
“Indeed it is very humbling knowing the challenges that the Department is experiencing, the stress we are going through because of financial constraints and many other challenges. But our leadership has made sure that we remain the hope of our people. You continue to be the pride of the nation and for that we are grateful and very humbled.”
She further reiterated that Parliament and Cabinet remain committed to addressing underfunding:
“We are aware that there are major problems with underfunding and it is not that we are insensitive to those challenges. We are doing all in our power to sustain this pride of the nation. Thank you — re a leboga.”
As the day concluded confidence in the SANDF’s mission readiness was palpable. Distinguished Visitors Day reaffirmed that the South African National Defence Force remains a disciplined, capable and cohesive force steadfast in its role as the guardian of the nation.
