A golden Free State sunset greeted a powerful and symbolic reunion at Air Force Base Bloemspruit as Rooivalk 671, Rooivalk 672 and Rooivalk 674 stood together again on home soil. For the first time in years all three airframes of South Africa’s iconic combat support helicopter were back at their home unit 16 Squadron.
Their return marks the successful conclusion of one of the most notable recent chapters in South African military aviation. After years of deployment in the Democratic Republic of the Congo under the United Nations Force Intervention Brigade all three Rooivalks were repatriated to South Africa, restored to serviceable condition and flown back to Bloemspruit.
A Testament to Capability and Commitment
The recovery and restoration process demanded precise logistics, technical expertise and unwavering coordination across the SA Air Force and its support structures. Each airframe faced its own operational wear from sustained mission cycles in the DRC, an environment known for challenging conditions. Returning all three to flight-capable condition demonstrates the continued resilience and relevance of the Rooivalk platform as well as the depth of the squadron’s maintenance and engineering capability.
The moment Rooivalk 674 completed its shutdown on the 16 Squadron flightline symbolised more than just the end of a recovery mission. It represented the close of a significant operational era for the unit, one marked by dedication, hardship and achievement.
Operational Legacy in the DRC
The Rooivalk’s deployment to the DRC has long been recognised as one of the most successful international operations undertaken by the South African Air Force. Providing close air support, reconnaissance and operational overwatch the aircraft earned global respect for its reliability and effectiveness. Its presence contributed meaningfully to the UN’s stabilisation efforts, often in demanding and rapidly evolving operational environments.
That legacy has now returned home embodied in the three airframes that served with distinction. Their presence at Bloemspruit stands as a reminder of the platform’s proven value in both peace support and high-intensity operations.
A Squadron’s Proud Moment
For 16 Squadron the return of every member and every aircraft is a moment of profound significance. The unit highlighted its gratitude for the safe return of its personnel from the DRC and the successful recovery of all operational assets. In an era where aviation deployments can stretch both people and machines to their limits bringing everyone home is an achievement worthy of recognition.
The homecoming also reinforces the deep sense of unity within the squadron. Aircrew, technicians, ground crews and support personnel all played a role in ensuring the Rooivalks remained operational throughout the deployment and in enabling their eventual return.
Looking Ahead
With some of the Rooivalk fleet reunited 16 Squadron enters a new phase of readiness and consolidation. The return of these airframes enhances the squadron’s operational posture, training capacity and long-term force preparation.
As the sun set on Bloemspruit it illuminated more than a flightline. It lit up the closing of a celebrated chapter and the beginning of a renewed era for 16 Squadron and South Africa’s flagship attack helicopter.
A moment to remember in the heritage of South African military aviation.
