The South African National Defence Force is fully deployed in support of the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) held yesterday 12 February at Cape Town City Hall. In line with its constitutional mandate, the SANDF has implemented coordinated security, ceremonial and operational measures to ensure the safe and dignified execution of this key national event. Units are operating under established command structures in close coordination with civil authorities and other security agencies.
The proceedings began with a 21-gun salute and a flypast from 85 Combat Flying School, featuring three BAE Hawk MK120 jets, setting a ceremonial tone before President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation.
The disciplined planning and execution by SANDF members highlight the Force’s commitment to safeguarding democratic processes and national leadership. As President Ramaphosa delivers the address, the SANDF remains professional, vigilant and steadfast in service to the Republic of South Africa.
President Highlights Crime as Key Threat
During the address, President Ramaphosa identified organised crime as the most immediate threat to the country’s democracy, social cohesion and economic development. He announced plans to deploy the SANDF to gang-affected areas in the Western Cape and Gauteng, similar to previous operations against illegal mining.
The President tasked acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia with determining deployment locations while emphasising that the SANDF’s role will be part of a broader tactical plan addressing gang violence. Details regarding troop numbers and costs have yet to be communicated to Parliament.
“I have directed the Minister of Police and the SANDF to develop a tactical plan on where our security forces should be deployed within the next few days in the Western Cape and Gauteng to deal with gang violence and illegal mining,” Ramaphosa stated.
Response from Provincial Leadership
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde welcomed the deployment as a short-term solution while noting the need for broader police reforms. The SANDF’s intervention is expected to provide immediate relief in high-crime areas while long-term solutions remain under review.
