South African National Defence Force

[KeroJP4]

Thanks Wilhelm, I am interested in any details that could be supplied.

In addition I am also curious about the Casspir truck Hispano MkV 20 mm gun mounting. I will build a Casspir kit too and any picture of such Casspir and 20mm gun (!!! What a powerful gun for a truck !!!) would be appreciated.

Regards,

Richard

[Dwelm]

I have a old picture of two casspirs at my old house (I think 36 BN) will scan and post it after fetching it, but I cant remember the guns. will see next week.

[KeroJP4]

I am looking for details of the following gun system :

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/8352/net3v.jpg

The pic is a screener from a video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBqc7FbIcyY) but it is not very accurate...

Can anyone help ?

Regards,

Richard

[wilhelm]

Kero, I'll have to visit my friend who knew Rfn Thom well. I'll ask if he knows anything further.

As to that 20mm gun mounted on the Casspir, I believe it was Koevoet who mounted that gun in the picture. AFAIK, that was a Hispano 20mm cannon that was taken out of an old Vampire jet fighter when it was retired.

The Casspir's weapon station on the vehicle top just behind the front seats have seen many weapon systems mounted there over the years. 20mm cannon, 14,5mm and 12,7mm, most of which were field modifications. More official were single or twin Browning or FN 7,62mm machine guns in a factory mount/shield.

[AtK]

I believe the gunner in the Ratel was Rfn Thom, who was a friend of a friend. He placed accurate 20mm fire onto the T-55, one of which penetrated around the cuppola area, detonating the T-55's internal ammunition. He was killed soon after when another T-55 shot out his Ratel. I think he was awarded a postumous Honoris Crux.

This is off the top of my head. I'll check the details later.

True. The callsign was 21C. Interesting to note that the A Coy Ratel shot out was callsign 12C.

Funny that these questions are asked at this time - the period that they were killed in.

[GETSOME]

Thanks for the info on the stepouts guys.:)

[wilhelm]

3 view of the Cheetah C

[2SAI Desert Rat]

Does anyone know who the first infantry unit was to take over border duties from the police and when?

[GETSOME]

Does anyone have a pic on the new infantry badge worn on the beret?
Dankie p-)
Also are the para wings awarded to new parabats numbered?

[AtK]

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/picture.php?pictureid=17975&albumid=512&dl=1257940209&thumb=1 (http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/album.php?albumid=512&pictureid=17975)
There you are - the beret badge is without the scroll at bottom.

[GETSOME]

^^^^
Thanks for that,is it in metal ?
Also is the beret ,infantry the same colour as it was in the SADF?p-)

[exT70]

^^^^
Thanks for that,is it in metal ?
Also is the beret ,infantry the same colour as it was in the SADF?p-)
Cloth when on beret.
Same colour.
Now one beret and badge for all infantry. No more unit badges, and no "balkies".
Also note that the colour of the rank insignia has changed recently.

[StrikeForce20]

Where is a good site excluding Trident Military were I can buy Rhodesian camouflage..even old SADF would do..thanks

:)

[playtym]

Check out https://www.warstore.co.za/
Look under > Southern African Wars > Rhodesia


You could also try http://www.aleckaplan.co.za/Medals-Badges-and-Militaria-Auction-Documents/View-category
They regularly auction old Rhodesian kit


I've bought from both and have never had any issues in my dealings with them. You're going to pay collector prices though.

[GETSOME]

Cloth when on beret.
Same colour.
Now one beret and badge for all infantry. No more unit badges, and no "balkies".
Also note that the colour of the rank insignia has changed recently.
What is the colour,any pics ,thanks.p-)

[Dwelm]

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs118.snc1/4860_101086759901408_100000002538668_26974_1966256_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=26975&id=100000002538668)


a Group of new recruits from 2009

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs118.snc1/4860_101086723234745_100000002538668_26963_5936934_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=26964&id=100000002538668)



and the new badge


http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs105.snc1/5046_1015388525410_1846009645_28729_3505933_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=28730&id=1846009645)

[blackshirt]

Are the white recruits segregated? or are all trainee companies intergrated? also is Afrikaans still the language used ?

[baboon6]

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs118.snc1/4860_101086759901408_100000002538668_26974_1966256_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=26975&id=100000002538668)









Why are they wearing browns?

[baboon6]

Are the white recruits segregated? or are all trainee companies intergrated? also is Afrikaans still the language used ?

The SANDF is fully integrated, has been for many years now.

English is meant to be the official language of the SANDF but Afrikaans is still used quite a lot.

[GETSOME]

Why are they wearing browns?
Yeh,and dont recruits still use overalls?p-)

[GETSOME]

[/URL]



[URL="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=26964&id=100000002538668"]http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs118.snc1/4860_101086723234745_100000002538668_26963_5936934_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=26975&id=100000002538668)
Anyone know where i can get a beret badge like that?

[Dwelm]

Would like one myself

[Dwelm]

Cape Town - Soldiers are to be deployed, instead of police, to patrol and protect South Africa's borders, government spokesperson Themba Maseko said on Wednesday.

Members of the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) would be better placed to fight cross-border crime, such as cars being smuggled to neighbouring countries after they were stolen in South Africa.

Maseko told a post-Cabinet briefing, soldiers would gradually replace the police both along the country's frontiers and at border posts.

"There will be an intermediate phase where some parts will be guarded by police and some parts guarded by the SANDF," he said.

"Eventually the task must be given to the SANDF but in the meanwhile it will be shared."

Cabinet has yet to decide how many soldiers will be needed and when their deployment will start.
The announcement marks a policy reversal.

Police began taking over responsibility from the army for border security five years ago but the move has been widely regarded as a mistake.



- SAPA


I like, I like, I truly like this

[exT70]

I like, I like, I truly like this

So after the "clever consultants" tried their best, and did, more damage to the SANDF/SADF/UDF etc than all the past wars combined, we are going boack to the "bad old days".
SANDF is begging the "old" tiffies, even those who left on a "package", to come back
messes are being de-privatised, and army chefs/cooks are at it again
the old div type system is making its return
the GSB are becoming QM's again and stopping tying to be private sector business modelled supply chains - which don't work
the army is going back to the borders, after the commandos were disbanded without any viable alternative being in place
Now if someone clever can just calculate how much this little "exercise" cost!

[wilhelm]

Bridgelaying equipment on the Olifant Mk1B chassis and 8X8 vehicle.

[playtym]

Now if someone clever can just calculate how much this little "exercise" cost!

LOL! It would be an interesting exercise. Everyone's missed the whole point though.

You first take something that's working and break it, by meddling with it, then, when enough time has passed and everyone's forgotten that it was you who screwed it up in the first place, you put it back to how it was and call it "progress".

They're doing the same thing with the SAPS.

[playtym]

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/9485/cassinga01.th.jpg (http://img215.imageshack.us/i/cassinga01.jpg/) http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/9585/cassinga02.th.jpg (http://img294.imageshack.us/i/cassinga02.jpg/) http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/6139/cassinga03.th.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/cassinga03.jpg/) http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/4231/cassinga04.th.jpg (http://img257.imageshack.us/i/cassinga04.jpg/) http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/730/cassinga05.th.jpg (http://img294.imageshack.us/i/cassinga05.jpg/) http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/9236/cassinga06.th.jpg (http://img709.imageshack.us/i/cassinga06.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://img687.imageshack.us/img687/7971/r401.th.jpg (http://img687.imageshack.us/i/r401.jpg/) http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/14/r402.th.jpg (http://img707.imageshack.us/i/r402.jpg/) http://img682.imageshack.us/img682/9743/r403.th.jpg (http://img682.imageshack.us/i/r403.jpg/)http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/527/r404.th.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/r404.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/1671/smokeshell01.th.jpg (http://img37.imageshack.us/i/smokeshell01.jpg/) http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/5705/smokeshell02.th.jpg (http://img690.imageshack.us/i/smokeshell02.jpg/) http://img682.imageshack.us/img682/9123/smokeshell03.th.jpg (http://img682.imageshack.us/i/smokeshell03.jpg/) http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/2010/smokeshell04.th.jpg (http://img20.imageshack.us/i/smokeshell04.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/9409/18477784.jpg

[baboon6]

LOL! It would be an interesting exercise. Everyone's missed the whole point though.

You first take something that's working and break it, by meddling with it, then, when enough time has passed and everyone's forgotten that it was you who screwed it up in the first place, you put it back to how it was and call it "progress".

They're doing the same thing with the SAPS.

The main objective of the SAPS at the moment seems to be to shoot as many innocent people as possible. Some retard from Douglasdale police station, just down the road from me, started blasting away just because some dogs barked at him. Luckily he didn't manage to hit them or any bystanders. A woman who lives in my complex actually witnessed the incident. Personally I believe a large proportion of the SAPS should be disarmed until they can prove how and when to use a weapon. Sorry for going off-topic.

[baboon6]

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/9485/cassinga01.th.jpg (http://img215.imageshack.us/i/cassinga01.jpg/) http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/9585/cassinga02.th.jpg (http://img294.imageshack.us/i/cassinga02.jpg/) http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/6139/cassinga03.th.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/cassinga03.jpg/) http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/4231/cassinga04.th.jpg (http://img257.imageshack.us/i/cassinga04.jpg/) http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/730/cassinga05.th.jpg (http://img294.imageshack.us/i/cassinga05.jpg/) http://img709.imageshack.us/img709/9236/cassinga06.th.jpg (http://img709.imageshack.us/i/cassinga06.jpg/)

Great article but I find it a bit odd that this guy took a six-pack of beer to Cassinga with him. Artistic licence maybe?

[baboon6]

http://img687.imageshack.us/img687/7971/r401.th.jpg (http://img687.imageshack.us/i/r401.jpg/) http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/14/r402.th.jpg (http://img707.imageshack.us/i/r402.jpg/) http://img682.imageshack.us/img682/9743/r403.th.jpg (http://img682.imageshack.us/i/r403.jpg/)http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/527/r404.th.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/r404.jpg/)

I like how this article completely ignores the fact that the R4 is simply a licence-built version of the Israeli Galil. I suppose given the political situation of the time it was inevitable.

[playtym]

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/5029/ft501.th.jpg (http://img215.imageshack.us/i/ft501.jpg/) http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/9982/ft502.th.jpg (http://img704.imageshack.us/i/ft502.jpg/) http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/9769/ft503.th.jpg (http://img30.imageshack.us/i/ft503.jpg/) http://img6.imageshack.us/img6/19/ft504.th.jpg (http://img6.imageshack.us/i/ft504.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/231/image0037.jpg

[playtym]

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/5184/3101.th.jpg (http://img263.imageshack.us/i/3101.jpg/) http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/6034/3102.th.jpg (http://img191.imageshack.us/i/3102.jpg/) http://img686.imageshack.us/img686/3669/3103.th.jpg (http://img686.imageshack.us/i/3103.jpg/) http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/4620/3104.th.jpg (http://img69.imageshack.us/i/3104.jpg/) http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/3319/3106.th.jpg (http://img237.imageshack.us/i/3106.jpg/) http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/9646/3105v.th.jpg (http://img684.imageshack.us/i/3105v.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/948/10101o.th.jpg (http://img27.imageshack.us/i/10101o.jpg/) http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/8139/10102.th.jpg (http://img704.imageshack.us/i/10102.jpg/) http://img37.imageshack.us/img37/4500/10103p.th.jpg (http://img37.imageshack.us/i/10103p.jpg/) http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/8149/10104.th.jpg (http://img689.imageshack.us/i/10104.jpg/) http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/2707/10105.th.jpg (http://img189.imageshack.us/i/10105.jpg/) http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/8848/10106b.th.jpg (http://img694.imageshack.us/i/10106b.jpg/) http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/5516/10107.th.jpg (http://img444.imageshack.us/i/10107.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://img706.imageshack.us/img706/7971/r401.th.jpg (http://img706.imageshack.us/i/r401.jpg/) http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/14/r402.th.jpg (http://img194.imageshack.us/i/r402.jpg/) http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/9743/r403.th.jpg (http://img69.imageshack.us/i/r403.jpg/) http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/527/r404.th.jpg (http://img194.imageshack.us/i/r404.jpg/) http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/7164/r405.th.jpg (http://img705.imageshack.us/i/r405.jpg/) http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/548/r406.th.jpg (http://img193.imageshack.us/i/r406.jpg/) http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/6295/r407.th.jpg (http://img16.imageshack.us/i/r407.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/5002/cr2101.th.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/cr2101.jpg/) http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/8884/cr2102.th.jpg (http://img42.imageshack.us/i/cr2102.jpg/) http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/2148/cr2103.th.jpg (http://img684.imageshack.us/i/cr2103.jpg/) http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/1691/cr2104.th.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/cr2104.jpg/)

[vor033]

Today Wednesday, December 09, 2009 a new era in the SANDF was entered. Let's see how history will eventually remember South African Air Assault.

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/AAParade047.jpg

After four years of waiting I was today the first person in the SANDF to be awarded the new Air Assault Badge, which I also designed. Needless to say it was a proud moment for me. Major Werner Klokow 6SAI (Air Assault)

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/AAParade004.jpg

Air Assault Badges in waiting today as we had a parade to hand them out to those of us qualified to wear them. The badge pictures a helicopter half enveloped by a laurel wreath.

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/AAParade075.jpg

The guard of honour marching off today at the conclusion of the parade.


http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/Latest235.jpg

Soldiers from C Company 6 SAI (Air Assault) Training

[vor033]

The Pretoria International Show presented the 70th show with the theme "Unwrap a Smile" from 28 August to 6 September 2009 at the Tshwane Events Centre this year.

The South African National Defence Force participated in the Pretoria International Show this year with static displays at the indoor and outdoor exhibitions. The South African National Defence Force displays were represented by Chief Joint Operations, South African Army, South African Air Force, South African Navy, South African Health Services, Special Forces, Director Personnel Acquisition as well as Defence Reserves.
The South African Army formed part of the greater South African National Defence Force indoor and outdoor exhibition and focused on recruitment, training and the role that the South African Army plays in support of government policy to support peace missions.

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/1.jpg

The Pretoria International Show 2009, Tshwane Events Centre

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/2.jpg

Signalman S. Maluleka, 3 Electronic Workshop setting up the lighting for the outdoor exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/3.jpg

Sergeant J.N. Ndlovu, 3 Electronic Workshop, preparing the spotlight at the 35 mm MK V

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/4.jpg

The South African Army inspection at the Armour outdoor exhibition conducted by Chief of the South African Army Corporate Services, Major General L. Rudman

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/5.jpg

The South African Army final inspection at the Infantry indoor exhibition conducted by Chief of the South African Army Corporate Services, Major General L. Rudman

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/6.jpg

Children viewing the Mamba, 21 South African Army Infantry Battalion as part of the South African Army Infantry Formation exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/7.jpg

Signal equipment, 1 Signal Regiment as part of the South African Army Signal Formation exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/8.jpg


From left to right: Command Ratel, 1 Signal Regiment as part of the South African Army Signal Formation and 155 mm GV6 Self-propelled Howitzer as part of the South African Army Artillery Formation exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/9.jpg

155 mm GV6 Self-propelled Howitzer, 4 Artillery Regiment as part of the South African Army Artillery Formation exhibition

[vor033]

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/1-1.jpg

Lance Corporal J. Matthysen, 1 Special Services Battalion explaining the Rooikat MK 1D Armoured Car as part of the South African Armour Formation exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/2-1.jpg

Corporal Z.J. Rolinyathi, 1 Special Service Battalion, explaining the Ratel ZT3 - A2 as part of the South African Army Armour Formation exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/3-1.jpg

Sergeant D. Shezi, 1 South African Tank Regiment assisting a child on the Olifant MK 2 Main Battle Tank as part of the South African Army Armour Formation exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/4-1.jpg

Staff Sergeant O.B. Leepo, School of Tactical Intelligence as part of the South African Army Intelligence Formation exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/5-1.jpg
Electronic Learning Aiming Correction System (ELAC) Shooting Simulator as part of the South African Army Training Formation exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/6-1.jpg

Sergeant Peterson discussing the Low Cost Aerial Target System (LOCAT) with a member of the public which forms part of the South African Army Air Defence Artillery Formation indoor exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/7-1.jpg

Corporal Z.J. Rolinyathi, 1 Special Service Battalion as part of the South African Army Armour Formation exhibition

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/8-1.jpg

Major S.E. Tshenye, 101 Air Supply Unit assisting a member of the public with the parachute equipment

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/9-1.jpg

Major General L. Rudman, Chief of the South African Army Corporate Services, thanking the South African Army participants for their contribution during the show on behalf of the Chief of the South African Army

[vor033]

A Few SANDF Photos, sorry about the large watermark on them,but i dont think they mess the photos up to much so thought i would post them p-)

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/1965015.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/1965042.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/2192204.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/51971375.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/51971786.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/51972963.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/51973923.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/74539602.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/83827507.jpg

[vor033]

Published: 2009/11/16 06:08:53 AM in Business Day

CRAIG* would rather have joined the British army, but is still happy with having served his two-year contract in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).

After matric, he joined the Military Skills Development Systems, launched in 2003 to rejuvenate the SANDF, improve racial representatively and develop skills. “It was a lot harder than I expected but I’m glad I did it,” says Craig, 22, who comes from a military family. But many other young South Africans — especially from white military families — are opting for the British army, creating a gap that is potentially undermining the SANDF’s transformation objectives.

Reasons for enlisting abroad include better prospects for professional development, overseas experience as well as British citizenship, and access to the European labour market. Some are wary of racial quotas in the SANDF, which they feel prevent the progress of white soldiers.

“They think they will have no career,” says Institute for Security Studies researcher Henri Boshoff. Others see a deterioration of standards resulting from the delicate quota system meant to achieve a racial balance.

“Merit just doesn’t count any more,” says Cathy, whose son Steven has just completed his first tour of Afghanistan as a member of a British unit. “He’s very happy,” she says, contrasting Steven’s experience with what she says is diminished professionalism in the SANDF.

“It’s no longer a calling any more; everything is done on quotas, including advanced training,” says Cathy, herself a former officer in the air force. Steven had his sights on the French Foreign Legion as a second choice.
“The defence force is not the preferred employer for white males,” says Lukas Bakkies, a retired rear admiral and secretary- general of the Council of Military Veterans Organisations. But he says the military — keen on a racially representative army — wants more of them to enlist.

Sam Mkhwanazi, the Department of Defence’s acting director of communication, strategy and content development, says defence transformation targets are 64% African, 24% white, 11% coloured and 1% Indian. There were 18862 privates in the military in August, of whom 88,5% were black, 8,4% coloured, 0,25% Indian and 2,9% white.

Mkhwanazi says the shortage of whites at entry level is due to several factors, including the advantages that whites had in the past. “A perception that white youth do not join the SANDF because of affirmative action is not true as is evidenced by the fact that middle management in the SANDF is predominantly white.”

Figures from the UK defence ministry early last year showed there were 7240 Commonwealth nationals, including 880 South Africans. The numbers amount to a tenfold increase since the war in Afghanistan began, but they exclude 3700 Nepalese Gurkhas in the British army, which Cathy says is still run on a merit system. “It’s a professional army — that’s the difference. If you make it, you make it; it doesn’t matter where you come from,” she says.

Three years ago, Parliament moved to ban South Africans from joining foreign armies without official permission. But proposed regulations, believed to have been provoked by the arrest of British mercenary Simon Mann for planning a failed coup in Equatorial Guinea, have still not come into effect.
Helmoed Heitman, Africa correspondent for Jane’s Defence Weekly, says preference for the British army comes from SA’s Commonwealth connections. More recently, Australia has attracted South African service personnel, especially from the air force. “The point here is that most armed forces are short of key people ... and we shoot ourselves in the foot with our racial appointment and promotion policies,” says Heitman.
UK High Commission spokesman Gary Benham says they get about 10 inquiries a month, b ut the UK does not actively recruit in SA or fund applicants to obtain visas or travel to Britain.

Meanwhile, Craig — now studying conservation in the Western Cape — has no recollection of any race-related discomfort in the SANDF. “You will always get the odd individual. Most of the time there is no problem; we wear the same uniform and do the same job,” he says.

He hopes to work for the anti- poaching unit in Limpopo. The military taught him to be independent and helped him find himself. “Any person leaving matric should definitely do it,” he says.

*Names have been changed.

[vor033]

South Africa is today recognized and highly respected as a peace broker by the international community, especially in Africa where countries have been plagued by instability and war, writes Edwin Tshivhidzo.

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has over the years embarked on dangerous and ambitious peace keeping missions to secure stability and peace in war torn African nations under the auspices of the United Nations.

South Africa was among the first countries to deploy military forces in support of the Burundi peace process in 2003. In 2000, during the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) peacekeeping mission, the SANDF spearheaded efforts to stablise the country's internal politics, reconstruction and development of infrastructure and trained DRC troops.

Since 2000, South Africa, has been a major contributor to the United Nations and African Union peacekeeping mission efforts and has troops and military observers deployed in the DRC, Burundi, Darfur (in Sudan) and Nepal among others.

In 2004, South Africa and the DRC signed an Agreement of Defence Cooperation, paving the way for the two ministries to further sign an agreement on Practical Assistance to the Government of the DRC, among others.

There are currently just under 3000 South African soldiers participating in peacekeeping missions under the AU and United Nations.

Speaking at the 10th Anniversary of South Africa's participation in Peacekeeping Missions recently, President Jacob Zuma acknowledged and recognized soldiers for their dedication in serving South Africa.

"South Africa is now regarded by the international community as an honest and reliable peace broker. Today the Burundi people and the people of the DRC are each governed by democratically elected governments after decades of instability.

"We attribute this to the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by our soldiers in the pursuit of the goal of eradicating conflict on our continent. We will continue to work with the African Union and the United Nations in the pursuit of peace. Keep up the good work, you make us proud to be South African" he said.

South Africa has also signed agreements with the DRC and Benin, which make provision for the training and setting up of various African countries' defence forces.

According to Brigadier General Lawrence Smith, Commanding Officer for the 43rd South African Brigade, participating in the Peacekeeping Missions has been extremely challenging and has provided an opportunity to learn new things.

Brigadier General Smith was one of the first senior officers in the defence force who was recruited in the first peacekeeping mission in the DRC in the late 90s and in 2001 he was assigned to protect officials in Burundi.

When BuaNews asked Brigadier General Smith about the challenges he has faced in peacekeeping missions, he said operating in an environment where he was not familiar with the local language was difficult.

"Not knowing the local language [has] hampered communication but other than that it has been interesting," he said.

"The SANDF will continue to take part in the peacekeeping missions until such time that their services are no longer needed."

He emphasized the importance of participating in peacekeeping missions saying that it contributed to South Africa's economic wellbeing

Junior soldiers are deployed in peacekeeping missions for a period of six months while senior officials are deployed for a year.

In 2008, the SANDF trained former DRC armed forces who later became known as the Rapid Reaction Battalion and became members of the DRC Defence Force. The first battalion of these trained troops were received by the DRC Defence Minister, Chikez Diemu.

The trained Battalion is expected to provide security and stability especially after the withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping force in that country.

In 2007, the South African National Defence (SANDF) received R388 million to enable it to perform its Peacekeeping missions. -BuaNews

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/ZumaSANDFparade0015b.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/sandf1_L.jpg
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http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/sandf7_L.jpg

[vor033]

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/ResFSymp007.jpg

[Dwelm]

Published: 2009/11/16 06:08:53 AM in Business Day

Sam Mkhwanazi, the Department of Defence’s acting director of communication, strategy and content development, says defence transformation targets are 64% African, 24% white, 11% coloured and 1% Indian. There were 18862 privates in the military in August, of whom 88,5% were black, 8,4% coloured, 0,25% Indian and 2,9% white.

Mkhwanazi says the shortage of whites at entry level is due to several factors, including the advantages that whites had in the past. “A perception that white youth do not join the SANDF because of affirmative action is not true as is evidenced by the fact that middle management in the SANDF is predominantly white.”

Figures from the UK defence ministry early last year showed there were 7240 Commonwealth nationals, including 880 South Africans. The numbers amount to a tenfold increase since the war in Afghanistan began, but they exclude 3700 Nepalese Gurkhas in the British army, which Cathy says is still run on a merit system. “It’s a professional army — that’s the difference. If you make it, you make it; it doesn’t matter where you come from,” she says.

Meanwhile, Craig — now studying conservation in the Western Cape — has no recollection of any race-related discomfort in the SANDF. “You will always get the odd individual. Most of the time there is no problem; we wear the same uniform and do the same job,” he says.

He hopes to work for the anti- poaching unit in Limpopo. The military taught him to be independent and helped him find himself. “Any person leaving matric should definitely do it,” he says.



The thing is a veteran of 10 years could still only earn R3 000 MP, I walked out school and started with more than that.
I don't believe it is a race issue but more that the SANDF is labeled as a under trained miss managed force with the wrong people at the wrong places. as for me I think they are just under funded and to small of an army to have soldiers promoted regularly to satisfy the needs of the troops on the ground, that leave to join more active armed forces with better pay, living conditions and more tours that lead to promotion and recondition. and we all want a handshake 'good job soldier'

even now that I am in mid application to go to the UK I still have my application forms for the SANDF and it feels bad not to have joined but I wanted to go to the UK and so I am going.

do you have a link ?

[Shadowstorm]

http://img10.imageshack.us/img10/5002/cr2101.th.jpg (http://img10.imageshack.us/i/cr2101.jpg/) http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/8884/cr2102.th.jpg (http://img42.imageshack.us/i/cr2102.jpg/) http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/2148/cr2103.th.jpg (http://img684.imageshack.us/i/cr2103.jpg/) http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/1691/cr2104.th.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/cr2104.jpg/)
Is the South African Army still interested in Vektor CR-21 assault rifle?

[exT70]

Is the South African Army still interested in Vektor CR-21 assault rifle?

No.
At present only only looking at hanging more crap unto the R4 series.

[Dwelm]

http://www.ivema.co.za/

looks nice

[drevil5000]

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=5b5_1261785747

[SilverBoy]

Howzit guys,

Not really SANDF related, but I thought I might as well post it here as there are naturally alot of Saffies here. I was just wondering, is anyone aware of what the SA law is on Gun Ownership? And anything resembling concealed carry?

To my knowledge it is 21 years of age, along with tests to obtain licensing, but I'm unaware of anything else.

Thanks guys.

[drevil5000]

Howzit guys,

Not really SANDF related, but I thought I might as well post it here as there are naturally alot of Saffies here. I was just wondering, is anyone aware of what the SA law is on Gun Ownership? And anything resembling concealed carry?

To my knowledge it is 21 years of age, along with tests to obtain licensing, but I'm unaware of anything else.

Thanks guys.

I don't think there are any laws stopping you from carrying a concealed gun.

But it still can take ages to get the license. I applied for a pistol license in 2006 and they still havent processed it yet. Each time I call the Firearms Registry they say there is a massive backlog and they don't know how long it will take.

Before you can apply you have to do the training and get the competency certificate. Once you have that you have to apply for competency through the police who have to check your safe and interview your friend and neighbours to make sure you are not a nutjob. Only once thats done will the license application go in.

[SilverBoy]

I don't think there are any laws stopping you from carrying a concealed gun.

But it still can take ages to get the license. I applied for a pistol license in 2006 and they still havent processed it yet. Each time I call the Firearms Registry they say there is a massive backlog and they don't know how long it will take.

Before you can apply you have to do the training and get the competency certificate. Once you have that you have to apply for competency through the police who have to check your safe and interview your friend and neighbours to make sure you are not a nutjob. Only once thats done will the license application go in.

Wow, since 2006? That really speaks volumes about the structures in place.

Was I correct in assuming it was 21 years of age and not 18?

Thanks man. I appreciate the prompt response. :)

[drevil5000]

Wow, since 2006? That really speaks volumes about the structures in place.

Was I correct in assuming it was 21 years of age and not 18?

Thanks man. I appreciate the prompt response. :)

Yeah 21 is the age.

[GETSOME]

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/9-1.jpg


Anybody ID the skill badge above the nametag ?

[GETSOME]

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/AAParade047.jpg

Congrates,is that still the original 6SAI beret badge,i thought all infantry worn the new infantry beret badge?
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs118.snc1/4860_101086723234745_100000002538668_26963_5936934_n.jpg (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=26964&id=100000002538668)
New beret badge.

[drevil5000]

http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=d9b_1262094033

[Mandende]

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/9-1.jpg


Anybody ID the skill badge above the nametag ?
Pathfinder skills badge

[Mandende]

A better view of the man and the badge, as well as some history.

[GETSOME]

^^^^
Thanks for that info.p-)

[Rudolph]

4 000+ matrics to join SANDF (http://www.news24.com/Content/SouthAfrica/News/1059/707b9d2c204c4915a3c266f8329461f7/07-01-2010-08-05/4_000+_matrics_to_join_SANDF)
2010-01-07 20:05

Johannesburg - More than 4 000 matric graduates are set to join the military, the SA National Defence Force said on Thursday.

"Four-thousand four-hundred and sixty-three fit and deserving young South Africans from all nine provinces who were successful in their quest to join the SANDF, have started to report at various SANDF Military Bases to commence with training," the military said in a statement.

The 4 000 recruits will "swell the ranks" of the aging SANDF through a 2003 programme called the Military Skills Development System.

The programme will "enhance the SANDF's mission readiness through the systematic rejuvenation of its human resource composition through annual intakes of young and fit members who are fully committed to defend the country", the SANDF said.

"The system also provides the country's youth with opportunities to acquire scarce skills."

After completing the programme the graduates will be able to choose a specialisation.


- SAPA

[SilverBoy]

Hey guys,

I was watching the DVD of DIstrict Nine, and in the special features of the DVD they showed that they were filming
in the location that was used to store SA's nuclear weapons, according to them.

In one of the bunkers, there were still 2-4 weapons, be it warheads or bombs. Anyone know what they were?

Thanks guys, I'll try to get an image.

[exT70]

Hey guys,

I was watching the DVD of DIstrict Nine, and in the special features of the DVD they showed that they were filming
in the location that was used to store SA's nuclear weapons, according to them.

In one of the bunkers, there were still 2-4 weapons, be it warheads or bombs. Anyone know what they were?

Thanks guys, I'll try to get an image.

After some of the Pelindaba security issues, there has been some concern of SA's nuclear security, but it is not THAT lax! All SA nuclear weapons have been disposed of, making SA the only country with a nuclear ability ever to voluntary dismantle and dispose of it's nuclear ability.
So rest asured, those are casings only.

[SilverBoy]

Haha, it never once crossed my mind that they were nuclear weaponry.:)

Just was wondering what they were exactly as I have no knowledge of munitions. So they are casings then for any munitions that were to be made?

Thanks

[vor033]

All Photos are from the 150th Birthday Parade for the Cape Town Highlanders and the Cape Town Rifles (Dukes) in 2005

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7840.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7841.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7842.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7843.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7845.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7850.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7851.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7856.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7861.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7863.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7867.jpg
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http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7871.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7877.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7883.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7885.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7887.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7896.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7897.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7904.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7905.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7907.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7914.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7915.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7916.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7927.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7936.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7937.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7938.jpg
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http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7950.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7959.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7960.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7961.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7964.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_7993.jpg

[vor033]

All Photos show the Soldiers from the Cape Town Highlanders Colour Parade - The Regiment is a Reserve Unit in the SANDF

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/CTHColour.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0002.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0006.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0009.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0013.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0015.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0018.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0026.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0042.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0053.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0056.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0064.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0067.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0071.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0114.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0123.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0132.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0135.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0137.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0139.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0146.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0147.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0156.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0174.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0177.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0179.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_0186.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8074.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8075.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8080.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8084.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8091.jpg
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http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8138.jpg
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http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8152.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8172.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8177.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8178.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8181.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8182.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8195.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8249.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8272.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8275.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8282.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8286.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8289.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8291.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/DSC_8297.jpg

[vor033]

Soldiers from the Cape Town Highlanders during exercise Ice Bear 1 at Lohathla 2000


http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/021.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/026_27.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/21.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/22.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/25.jpg
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http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/32.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/33.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/9-2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/90.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/lohmag.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/maggunner.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/map.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/patmor.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/prep.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/r4.jpg

[blackshirt]

This might be a bit "UnPC" but whats the current racial mack up of the Airforce these days? I'm thinking mainly of aircrew here.

[baboon6]

This might be a bit "UnPC" but whats the current racial mack up of the Airforce these days? I'm thinking mainly of aircrew here.

AFAIK there are still more white than black aircrew, though of course the percentage of non-white aircrew has risen in the past couple of years. The real problem is that many trained aircrew and techniciians of all races have left the SAAF in the last few years because of better opportunities in the private sector, both in SA and abroad; I remember reading somewhere that some had gone to the Royal Australian Air Force too. These two articles from 2008 should prove useful:

http://www.news24.com/Content/SouthAfrica/Politics/1057/6ade691e9755447eb780cc20449a99d9/30-07-2008-09-23/SAAF_has_just_20_fighter_pilots


Cape Town - The SA Air Force has lost 91 pilots and 822 technicians since 2005, according to Defence Minister Mosiuoa Lekota.
In a written reply to a question in the National Assembly, he said financial imperatives were among the main reasons for personnel leaving the SAAF.
"White members have a perception that there are limited career opportunities within the organisation.
"This prompts them to seek other opportunities elsewhere, moreover for remuneration packages far beyond what the SAAF can offer to retain skills," Lekota said.
Since the latter part of 2007 the SAAF had experienced a number of its members seeking employment abroad.

More qualified, skilled personnel
It was not necessarily foreign employment agencies' recruitment drives that caused personnel to leave the SAAF, because many of the resignations were linked to contact with colleagues who were already abroad and employed by companies or organisations that were in search of more qualified and skilled personnel.
Such resignations were often prompted by various personal reasons such as immediate citizenship, extended flying careers in the case of aircrew and other perceived advantages such as low crime and a good standard of living, Lekota said.

The SAAF currently had only 20 operational fighter pilots, of which two were black, male pilots and one a white female.
There were four trainee fighter pilots of which two were black males.

Air Force collapsing
Altogether 123 pilots were currently under training in the SAAF.

Commenting on the reply, Freedom Front Plus spokesperson Pieter Groenewald said it was clear the Air Force was collapsing.
"Apart from the concern about the pilots, the true crisis is the huge number of technicians that have been lost," he said.
Aircraft cannot be maintained without technicians.



http://www.saafa.co.za/copy/newsletters/national/01-2008.pdf

TRAINING
One Wings parade was held in 2007, with 24
student pilots, eight Air Force Reserve Squadron
members, five navigators, one test engineer and
one air photographer receiving their SAAF wings.
In these core musterings, 62% of the recipients
were black and 22% female.

The Air Force Reserve (AFR) is an integral part of
the SAAF and it was therefore fitting that there
were members of the Air Force Reserve
Squadrons who received their SAAF wings at this
Wings parade. The additional resources that the
Air Force Reserve Squadrons bring to the SAAF
are invaluable, and besides trained aircrew, these
resources include aircraft ranging from small twoseater
aircraft to executive jets. Several black
pilots who have left the Regular Force have since
joined the AFR Squadrons and now make a
valuable contribution there.

[blackshirt]

Interesting thanks for that, seems the same the world over , the military trains them and the private sector poaches them!!!

[G-AWZT]

Definately not the SADF from yesteryear. Back then it was a force to be reckoned with, now I'm not so sure.

As for the SADF's nukes I take it they were in the (Kt) range and to be delivered by Bucs or Mirage F1?

[Rudolph]

Definately not the SADF from yesteryear. Back then it was a force to be reckoned with, now I'm not so sure.

As for the SADF's nukes I take it they were in the (Kt) range and to be delivered by Bucs or Mirage F1?

Buccaneer, and eventually ICBM.

[cbreedon]

SA had ICBM's?

[Dinges]

SA had ICBM's?

Not operational. But the RSA series of rockets were to culminate into an ICBM capacity. To all intents and purposes the technical capacity was achieved.

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?172045-Book-Review-How-SA-built-six-atom-bombs&p=4709511&viewfull=1#post4709511

http://www.astronautix.com/lvfam/jericho.htm

[wilhelm]

Does anyone have any information or pictures on the 3,5inch Super Bazooka as used by the SADF?
I remember a few years back seeing a picture of a troepie firing one. How many were actually purchased, and when were they used until? I imagine up until the eraly 1980's until replaced by the RPG-7?
Any pics would be great.

[Dinges]

Now Wilhelm , no kissing.

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/7792/dsc0073r.jpg


http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/1235/dsc0074rx.jpg

[daktrad]

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/5193/373ht.pngI didn't know South Africa had highland units. Whats with the Balmoral?
- Sgt John Doffhey - The Cape Town Highlanders.

[daktrad]

south african tax payer does not !!!!!

[daktrad]

Today Wednesday, December 09, 2009 a new era in the SANDF was entered. Let's see how history will eventually remember South African Air Assault.

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/AAParade047.jpg

After four years of waiting I was today the first person in the SANDF to be awarded the new Air Assault Badge, which I also designed. Needless to say it was a proud moment for me. Major Werner Klokow 6SAI (Air Assault)

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/AAParade004.jpg

Air Assault Badges in waiting today as we had a parade to hand them out to those of us qualified to wear them. The badge pictures a helicopter half enveloped by a laurel wreath.



The guard of honour marching off today at the conclusion of the parade.

Soldiers from C Company 6 SAI (Air Assault) Training

Aw *** on !! - you seriously have the audacity to have these pictures posted, man oh man.

6 SAI one boknaai - quo vadis tjina ?

Sir, for a company level officer you are way overweight - air ASSAULT you say, what you gonna assault - your refrigerator , it's not inside it's ooooon - TOP!!!

So is the skipper behind you, and he needs a bloody haircut.

The SO2 next to you is the most confused about the dress for the parade (?), but so are the rest of ,em.

Crikey mate, and when you've finished blowing your own bugle do your army a favour and get your CSM to sort your freaking headdress out for you.

Nice badge - where can i buy one ?

[daktrad]

Looks like the idiot idea to replace the Pat83.
One of my pet hate projects.
Due to the fact that the Pat83 battlejacket is apparently not Bat friendly, the Inf Formation want to replace the Pat 83 with a Belt rig type webbing. Do a disservice to all the Inf Bns to please 1Bn of paras. Guess whose in charge?
OK, to be honest, and truthful, the rest of the excuse is that the current battlejacket does not work well enough with a big bag (nor does a belt rig) and that the battlejacket is not flexible enough (change the Pat83 to molle type flex system).

The "members" wearing the rigs in the pics looks like the Int Regt (Snuffel Tiffs) wannabe reconnaissance lot. Everybody wants to be a Spes something. Where else would you find a LtCol playing soldier-soldier. Maybe they read somewhere in a pictoral novelette that a commander must lead from the front. And that "real men" don't wear head protection as per standing order.
If I see a senior officer carrying a MGL, it means the commander is not commanding, or that we are in very very deep sh!t indeed, thus basically both.

Yes quite, but isn't that Arnold Vosloo in the last one - i'm sure its just a movie scene down there in Cape Town - with crap continuity people. Hey I smaak the gloves hey ?

[wilhelm]

Hey Prion!

Thanks a stack. I have seen that it was used by the parabats at Cassinga, and knew that it was used for a few years after that.

Thanks for the info. Is that at the Military Museum in Jo'burg?

[Dinges]

Hey Prion!

Thanks a stack. I have seen that it was used by the parabats at Cassinga, and knew that it was used for a few years after that.

Thanks for the info. Is that at the Military Museum in Jo'burg?

Yes. That is where I took the pic.

[wilhelm]

Whilst in request mode, the other anti-tank weapon I see often mentioned as used by South Africa was the French SS-10 or SS-11 anti-tank missile. I can't recall ever having seen one when I was in, nor any pictures since in SADF service.

Does anyone have any info? Prion?

[Dinges]

Whilst in request mode, the other anti-tank weapon I see often mentioned as used by South Africa was the French SS-10 or SS-11 anti-tank missile. I can't recall ever having seen one when I was in, nor any pictures since in SADF service.

Does anyone have any info? Prion?

IIRC we used the ENTAC and not the Nord SS-10. I might have some generic ENTAC pics somewhere.

[wilhelm]

I stand corrected prion, it was indeed the ENTAC. I also remember the SS-11 being mentioned a couple of places as being in SADF service. I've never seen pictures of either in the South African context.

[baboon6]

Hey Prion!

Thanks a stack. I have seen that it was used by the parabats at Cassinga, and knew that it was used for a few years after that.

Thanks for the info. Is that at the Military Museum in Jo'burg?

In the accounts I have read of Cassinga only the RPG-7 is mentioned. It was apparently the first time the Parabats had used it in action and they were in fact only issued them a few days before the operation.

[wilhelm]

In the accounts I have read of Cassinga only the RPG-7 is mentioned. It was apparently the first time the Parabats had used it in action and they were in fact only issued them a few days before the operation.

Hi Baboon.

I think at home have an account of them using the 3,5 M20 at Cassinga. I will dig it out tonight. I seem to recall it being used on vehicles (BTR-152's) and the bell tower, but I'll check first. This seems also to be mentioned in the museum plaque in Prions post above.

[wilhelm]

Baboon, after having a look, you are correct. I cannot find a reference to usage of the 3,5 M20 by parabats at Cassinga. This does not mean they didn't use it there of course, just that the accounts I have do not mention it.

The usage against the bell tower was at Pereira de Eca, and I have also found reference to it's usage during Operation Sceptic. It appears once enough RPG-7's were aquired, it fell out of service.

[percor]

Hi everybody,
I am looking for information about the HF radio Fuchs SO-25. I search google and I found only a few pics. This radio is the copy of the French made Thomson TRC 300. We, in Argentina, also made it. Here I have a pic of the one I own. I need to complete it.
Any information would be well received.
Thank you all in advance.
Percor

[22nd-actr]

Hi,
i was just woundering can any one give me some info on the 1 Special Service Battalion?
like what they do, what weapons they use...things like that
and does any 1 have any pics of them

[Dinges]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1_Special_Service_Battalion

Try Google. It is really your friend.








DWP.

[curious george]

Also try that social network thingy-3 groups for 1SSb.

[22nd-actr]

do they do reconaissance and what is the name of the social network for the 1SSB?

[Dinges]

do they do reconaissance

Did you actually read my link in situ?

[22nd-actr]

ya i have but i could find anything and i read the info on wikipedia

[curious george]

f/book brother-lotsa sadf/sandf groups

[22nd-actr]

here are there any SANDF forums

[22nd-actr]

i was just woundering do you know what is the age limit for the south african army because i checked the SADF website and it said that is between 18-22 i just want to see if thats right?
heres a link http://www.careers.mil.za/index.htm

[Dinges]

i was just woundering do you know what is the age limit for the south african army because i checked the SADF website and it said that is between 18-22 i just want to see if thats right?
heres a link http://www.careers.mil.za/index.htm

I believe it is actually 18-26. 18-22 with a senior sertificate ( grade 12 schooling ) and up to 26 if you have a tertiary qualification.

http://www.careers.mil.za/faq/faq.htm

[22nd-actr]

is that the same for the reserves aswell or do they have a different age limit and does every south african citizen have to do afew years in the SANDF?

[baboon6]

is that the same for the reserves aswell or do they have a different age limit and does every south african citizen have to do afew years in the SANDF?

For the reserves I think you can join up to the age of 28 or something close to that without previous military experience, and quite a lot older if you are ex-National Service/regular.

There has been no conscription in SA since 1994.

[Rudolph]

For the reserves I think you can join up to the age of 28 or something close to that without previous military experience, and quite a lot older if you are ex-National Service/regular.

There has been no conscription in SA since 1994.


You mean to say mid '92, friend... ;)

[baboon6]

You mean to say mid '92, friend... ;)

Wasn't the last intake the mid-'93 one? I'm fairly sure about that since I was in matric in 93.

[Dinges]

I do not know if these have been posted. I do not remember them being in this thread. The G5-52 being tested.

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/6526/g552upgradephoto4large.jpg

http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/1491/g552upgradephoto1large.jpg

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/7884/g552loader.jpg

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/9701/g552breech.jpg

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/7842/g552upgradephoto5large.jpg

Now count the rounds. 1 - Chambered , 1 - on Rammer , 6 - Tray , 3 - Loader. Pretty impressive.

[Mandende]

And the propellant? Still loaded by troep Mk1?

[Dinges]

And the propellant? Still loaded by troep Mk1?

Yes. .................................................................................

[sa_bushwar]

A while ago some rumours were going around that Project Hoefyster to replace the SANDF ratels with Finish 8x8 Patrias might be canned due to cost over-runs.

Upgrading the existing Ratels might be considered...

[Dinges]

That pic looks like a iKlwa in 8x8 form.

[wilhelm]

Interesting sa bushwar. Where did that picture come from? Is it a real project?

[22nd-actr]

does any one know if you can join the reserves and the commandos or can you just be in one?

[Dwelm]

does any one know if you can join the reserves and the commandos or can you just be in one?

there is no Commandos, got disbanded not so long ago.

[22nd-actr]

why did it get disbanded?

[dieters7]

Try this site (they sometimes have some surplus stock available):
http://camocorp.co.za



Yeahhh !!
http://exploringafrica.matrix.msu.edu/teachers/current/CEvents_images/sports/springboks_logo.gif



Nordwind, do you know where I can get some South African camouflage, any websites from S. Africa you know of ? Sorry to ask again, I really like S. African Camouflage patterns. If you do have any, please, PM me with the link, I will greatly appreciate it. They are very rare and hard to come by, thanks.

BTW, I have a friend they got back from S. Africa. He loved it, enjoyed the landscape, wildlife and the big cities.

[exT70]

Aw *** on !! - you seriously have the audacity to have these pictures posted, man oh man.

6 SAI one boknaai - quo vadis tjina ?

Sir, for a company level officer you are way overweight - air ASSAULT you say, what you gonna assault - your refrigerator , it's not inside it's ooooon - TOP!!!

So is the skipper behind you, and he needs a bloody haircut.

The SO2 next to you is the most confused about the dress for the parade (?), but so are the rest of ,em.

Crikey mate, and when you've finished blowing your own bugle do your army a favour and get your CSM to sort your freaking headdress out for you.

Nice badge - where can i buy one ?

Hey Mr Lambchops, is't comments on hair a bit rich coming from you?

[cold_warrior]

A while ago some rumours were going around that Project Hoefyster to replace the SANDF ratels with Finish 8x8 Patrias might be canned due to cost over-runs.

Upgrading the existing Ratels might be considered...

Interesting. It almost sounds like a western version of the turret from the BMP-3 with the smoothbore gun/mortar and autocannon combo. Was the gun/mortar designed to fire standard 120mm bombs in addition to ATGM's and AT rounds?

[vor033]

Unfortunately there were no captions with these photos just the story outlined below, but I hope you still find them interesting p-)

VICENZA, Italy – Shortly after Maj. Gen. William B. Garrett III’s aircraft touched down at Johannesburg’s Tambo International Airport, he was shaking hands with Brig. Gen. Chris Gildenhuys, commanding general of the South African Army Armour Formation. The two officers last met in Monterey, Calif., during a July 2009 bi-lateral conference sponsored by the U.S. military.

In a sign of U.S. Army Africa’s growing relationship with South Africa, it was now South Africa’s turn to host the commander of U.S. Army Africa.

“Organizations don’t collaborate, people do,” Garrett said. “This visit is an invaluable opportunity to strengthen the relationship between our Army and the South African Army.”

On March 7th, Garrett flew to South Africa for a weeklong tour, marking his first visit to that country. In the days to follow, Gildenhuys escorted Garrett to meet South Africa’s senior army leaders and tour South Africa’s key military installations near Pretoria, Bloemfontein and Cape Town.

In Pretoria, Garrett stopped at the U.S. Embassy to meet with U.S. Ambassador Donald H. Gips and the Deputy Chief of Mission, Ambassador Helen La Lime. Then, at South Africa’s army headquarters, Garrett spoke with Lt. Gen. Solly Zacharia Shoke, chief of the South Africa’s army, about transformation efforts underway in South Africa’s army. Garrett shared recent accomplishments of U.S. Army Africa soldiers and civilians, who work with the land forces of many African nations to strengthen mutual security capacity and capabilities.

At South Africa’s Joint Operations Headquarters, Garrett met with Rear Admiral Phillip Schoultz, Director General for Joint Operations and Acting Chief for Joint Operations who discussed his nation’s peacekeeping efforts. Afterward, Garrett met with officers at the South African Army College. While visiting the 43rd South African Brigade headquarters, Garrett met with Brig. Gen. Lawrence Smith and observed preparation for training under the U.S. State Department-led African Contingency Operations Training and Assistance program. Then, Garrett stopped at South Africa’s army engineer formation headquarters for a series of information briefings.

“We have a lot to learn from the South African Army,” Garrett said. “We will use that knowledge to update the U.S. Army’s training and doctrine while enhancing interoperability between our forces.”

The next day, Garrett flew from Waterkloof Air Force Base on Pretoria’s outskirts to Bloemspruit Air Force Base near Bloemfontein. He toured South Africa’s armor school and visited the 44th Parachute Regiment. From Bloemfontein, Garrett flew to Ysterplaat Air Force Based near Cape Town to learn more about South Africa’s reserve forces at Fort Ikapa , followed by a visit to South Africa’s joint tactical headquarters at Western Cape.

U.S. Army Africa has already seen how senior leader engagements can quickly develop into beneficial training opportunities.

In March 2009, Command Sgt. Maj. Earl Rice – then U.S. Army Africa’s senior enlisted leader – visited South Africa’s Special Forces headquarters, a visit conducted with representatives from the U.S. Army Ranger Training Brigade. Within a few weeks, U.S. soldiers got a taste of hardcore South African special forces training. Three Army NCOs underwent a grueling three-week survival course in the South African bush, learning valuable lessons on adapting to the harsh environment, maintaining endurance and overcoming nearly insurmountable challenges—tools they carried back to their units.

Meanwhile, U.S. Army Africa is increasing its capacity building efforts in Africa through a continuing series of senior leader engagements, part of the command’s strategy to expand cooperative relationships and develop enduring partnerships across the continent. Senior leader engagements are a traditional tool used by Army leaders to enhance capacity building efforts.

Leaders use these engagements to gain better regional understanding and insights while encouraging follow-on initiatives such as military-to-military familiarization events and combined exercises and training opportunities.

In July 2009, Garrett was among several U.S. Department of Defense leaders who sat down with South African Ministry of Defense officers during the 11th annual U.S.-RSA Defense Committee meeting in Monterey. While at the bi-lateral conference, military leaders discussed policy, familiarization events, military support to combating HIV/AIDS, plus education and training opportunities for military members.

Several military-to-military familiarization events in 2010 are already being planned, in coordination with U.S. military officers at the U.S. Embassy in South Africa. These events include officer and NCO professional development activities, a leader exchange program, and various engagement activities including military medicine, military police, facilities management and helicopter operations.

The New York National Guard leads cooperative military efforts with South Africa under the State Partnership Program. Upcoming SPP engagements include events involving senior enlisted leaders, military police and chaplains.

“This visit will strengthen the relationship with our South African colleagues,” Garrett said. “Our task now is to expand this relationship into an enduring partnership between the U.S. Army and the South African Army

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/1-2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/2-2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/3-2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/4-2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/5-2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/6-2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/7-2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/8-2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/9-3.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/new10.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/new11.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/new12.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/new13.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/new14.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/new15.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/new16.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/new17.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/new18.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/621c6b0e.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/931e52b8.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/939da44f.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/a1fb4b0f.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/ec25d455.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/e2a90ddd.jpg

[Rudolph]

^Cool pics, thx.

[cold_warrior]

Those pics put a smile on my face. Thanks for posting!

[GETSOME]

Those pics put a smile on my face. Thanks for posting!
Sweeeet pics,thanks for posting,more ,more pleasep-)

[GETSOME]

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/1-2.jpg
Not your usual web belt the Bat is wearing,any info or closeup?

[RAD72]

Is there any books out there that contain data/specs for these and other South Aftrican prototypes/Armoured vehicles?

[Dinges]

Is there any books out there that contain data/specs for these and other South Aftrican prototypes/Armoured vehicles?

Now why do you want to know that?

[RAD72]

I am building my own militarty data base, and not many sources in my area. Big fan of the MRAP/V-hulls developed by both South Africa and Rhodesia as well. Any help is greatly appreciated

[Cpl Kat]

I have an old book (that may no longer be in print) that shows many of the early SADF MRAP/V-hulls and prototypes.

It is written by Helmoed - Romer Heitman and is called South African Arms & Armour. First published 1988 by Struik. ISBN 0 86977 637 1

Maybe you get a second hand copy somewhere.

Looking at the current fleet of USA MRAP's, the South African design influence is very evident.

[SilverBoy]

Howzit Guys

Again, I'm sorry for bringing up non-SANDF related question, but I figured this would be the
best place to ask this question, seeing the predominance of us Saffies in this thread.

Me and my mate are interested in learning to shoot and so on, but the problem is that we
are both around the age of 18, not the 21 required to own a gun. I was just wondering
the general procudere we could use to take up shooting? If there are any.

Also, does anyone know of any good shooting ranges around Cape Town? I'm doing
some googling, but figured you guys might know.

[Rudolph]

Howzit Guys

Again, I'm sorry for bringing up non-SANDF related question, but I figured this would be the
best place to ask this question, seeing the predominance of us Saffies in this thread.

Me and my mate are interested in learning to shoot and so on, but the problem is that we
are both around the age of 18, not the 21 required to own a gun. I was just wondering
the general procudere we could use to take up shooting? If there are any.

Also, does anyone know of any good shooting ranges around Cape Town? I'm doing
some googling, but figured you guys might know.

To answer part of your question... My family has been involved with the Durbanville shooting club for a number of years.

http://www.dsk-dsc.co.za/

"Durbanville Shooting club has been in existence for 30 years and currently has more than 800 members. It is situated on the farm Groot Phesantekraal on the Klipheuwel road a few kilometers outside Durbanville. We cater for a wide variety of shooting disciplines and we accomodate the serious shooter as well as the recreational shooter. We have a 25m handgun range*, 200m and 500m rifle ranges, all under cover."

[JoshuaS]

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/1-2.jpg
Not your usual web belt the Bat is wearing,any info or closeup?

This bat officer (Jxxx Txxx) is a reserve soldier, and probability put some kit together for his uniform. He has been in the soldier business for a long time... all over...

[mrf2]

That web belt looks exactly like a US LC-2 web belt, I would bet that it is a US made LC-2 web belt.

[GETSOME]

[QUOTE=mrf2;4835689]That web belt looks exactly like a US LC-2 web belt, I would bet that it is a US made LC-2 web belt.[/QUOTE
^^^^^
Thanks for the reply guys.p-)
Anyone know where i can get a slangvel (para smock) like the Bat in the pic?

[Empulse]

I apologize in advance if this is not the right place to ask my question, but I wasn't sure where else to place it. Recently, the Anglo-Boer war has started to catch my interest and I'd like to read into it, which made me wonder if any of you could recommend me some good books which particularly focuses on the Boers perspective.

Many thanks.

Edit: spelling mistake.

[Rudolph]

I apologize in advance if this is not the right place to ask my question, but I wasn't sure where else to place it. Recently, the Anglo-Boer war has started to catch my interest and I'd like to read into it, which made me wonder if any of you could recommend me some good books which particularly focus on the Boers perspective.

Many thanks.

This is an excellent book written by a boer:

Commando by Deneys Reitz.

http://www.ourcivilisation.com/smartboard/shop/reitzd/commando/index.htm


British author Thomas Packenham wrote one of the most well-known books The Boer War.

Here's a article on The Battle of Magersfontein I wrote up:

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?t=126180&highlight=magersfontein


And one about the last battle of the First Boer war:

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?t=142694

[playtym]

I apologize in advance if this is not the right place to ask my question, but I wasn't sure where else to place it. Recently, the Anglo-Boer war has started to catch my interest and I'd like to read into it, which made me wonder if any of you could recommend me some good books which particularly focus on the Boers perspective.

Many thanks.

You may have some luck in one of these threads:

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?154206-The-Boer-War-Army-Nation-and-Empire

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?133151-A-West-Pointer-With-The-Boers-%281903%29-Free-Book

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?30563-Some-less-known-info-on-the-Boer-war

http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?114843-The-Great-Boer-War

[Empulse]

Thanks for the tips guys. It's really appreciated!

Greetings from the Netherlands.

[Rudolph]

Thanks for the tips guys. It's really appreciated!

Greetings from the Netherlands.

There's a statue of Boer General Christiaan de Wet somewhere in the Netherlands, probably somewhere in the capital, my friend was very inspired by it when he saw it just some weeks ago...

[Empulse]

This must be the statue he's told you about:

http://i41.tinypic.com/2cpaon4.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/2ah8fhf.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/24qntqx.jpg


http://i42.tinypic.com/noblhs.jpg

http://i39.tinypic.com/jjlmva.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/15yca39.jpg

Unfortunately, in Dutch only. The statue is not even near Amsterdam. In fact, it's on the other side of the country, but the following article explains why they chose this location.


Waar lijkt het ongerepter dan op de Hoge Veluwe? Schijn bedriegt, want als er één landschap in Nederland veelvuldig is gerept, dan is het wel dat van de fraaie bossen van het Nationaal Park. Eeuwenlang hadden de Veluwse boeren hun grond door kappen en afgraven zo uitgeput, dat het in de vorige eeuw een uitgestorven woestenij was geworden. Vanaf ongeveer 1850 werden er bomen geplant om de zandverstuivingen tegen te gaan, maar het noordelijk deel, tussen Otterlo en Hoenderlo, bleef woeste heidegrond. Toen dit zogenaamde Otterlose Zand in bezit kwam van het echtpaar Kröller-Müller, besloten ze om hier geen bomen te planten, maar het ruige karakter van het landschap te bewaren.
Zoals zoveel Nederlanders koesterden de Kröllers grote bewondering voor de Afrikaanse Boeren die hun vrijstaten tegen de Engelsen verdedigden. Terwijl overal in Nederland straten werden genoemd naar helden en veldslagen uit de Boerenoorlog en koningin Wilhelmina de Britten tegen de schenen schopte door Paul Kruger te ontvangen, de president van Transvaal, eerde Helena Kröller-Müller president Steyn van Oranje-Vrijstaat met een bank en een geometrisch aangelegde tuin tegenover het huidige museum Kröller-Müller, op een stille plek die door toeristen wordt gemeden.
Zuidafrikaanse vrijheidsstrijders reisden naar Europa om steun te winnen voor hun zaak. Generaal Christiaan de Wet ontmoette het echtpaar Kröller en mevrouw was zo onder de indruk, dat zij in 1915 besloot een standbeeld voor hem op te richten. En omdat het Otterlose Zand sterk doet denken aan het Afrikaanse landschap - gelige heide met hier en daar een breed uitwaaierende, groene boom -, kwam het monument daar in 1922 te staan. De Wet staat in boerenkledij op een driedelig voetstuk. De bolle vorm is afgeleid van de zogenaamde 'kopjes': heuveltjes waara11chter de Boerensoldaten zich verschansten. Van de strijders met geweren die Joseph Mendes da Costa rondom uit de hardsteen hakte, stellen de voorste twee de presidenten Steyn en Kruger voor. Voor de anderen hebben bevriende kunstenaars model gestaan, waaronder Mendes zelf.Source:
http://www.tijdruimte.nl/artikelen/exotisme/Gelderland.htm

Commemoration:

http://www.roepstem.net/wet.html

[Rudolph]

Thanks for that!!

[Dwelm]

This is an excellent book written by a boer:

Commando by Deneys Reitz.

http://www.ourcivilisation.com/smartboard/shop/reitzd/commando/index.htm

This is a must read

[Rudolph]

Yes, it's actually part of a trilogy Adrift on the Veldt.

The writer's Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deneys_Reitz

[HammockWarrior]

Anyone seen this piece on the new(?) R4 DM variant.http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7323:r4-dmr-unveilled-&catid=50:Land&Itemid=105
Looks good, but how do the Americans put it again? Pig with a Rolex?

[exT70]

Yes, it's actually part of a trilogy Adrift on the Veldt.

The writer's Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deneys_Reitz

Only "Commando" deals with the Boer War, "Trekking On" covers his experiences in Madagaskar, SouthWestAfrican war against the Germans, WW1 (ending up, strangely, as a Bn Commander in the Brittish Army) and his life in SA politics between the Anglo Boer War and WW1. "No Outspan" deals with his life after WW1 in SA politics, and naturally, his other adventures.
All are awesome reads and worthwhile on their own.
Commando is the best Boer War book I've read to date. No BS, only one person's very personal experience of almost every major part of the war.
As noted above, general history wise, Parkenham's is good for an overall view of the Boer War.

[Dinges]

2 Squadron Mustangs in Korea

http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/1440/saafmustangskorea.jpg

[SilverBoy]

Hey guys,

I've been doing some casual research, and does anyone know if the URTU is still going on? And if it has
spread to all branches? Just found about this today, and I can't find any new news about it or Project
Phoenix.

[baboon6]

Hey guys,

I've been doing some casual research, and does anyone know if the URTU is still going on? And if it has
spread to all branches? Just found about this today, and I can't find any new news about it or Project
Phoenix.

I'm pretty sure it is but SierraMike who occasionally posts on this forum will be able to give you a defintive answer. I have forwarded this to him.

[sierratango]

The URTU programme is currently up and running in Johannesburg and Pretoria, the first company (Isandlwana Coy) are due to be commissioned soon, (Sidi Rezegh Coy will be commissioned sometime next year). I do know that the DS have been to Cape Town and Durban to see if they can get traction down there. Basically it needs a lot of buy-in from the reserve units.
However, another brilliant rumour is that they are being amalgamated with 7 Med in Pretoria.
If you need more info on the progamme just IM me and I will see if I can put you in touch with the right people. I just need to understand the nature of your enquiry.
Hope the reply helps
ST

[Dinges]

Just watched Cuba : an African Odyssey on SABC2. Not bad , but did skirt the whole "in time" battles and recognised numbers.

[SilverBoy]

Thanks guys,

PM sent

[marius72za]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dwS7qfzBHmQ/S7u1OxO9H4I/AAAAAAAAJEA/H3ZVb6OGbGU/s1600/Julius_Malema_Zim_2010_04_03_01.jpg

The proud new Recruit!

[Mandende]

Slightly worried about the ANCYL going for military training. What about the youth that belong to other parties? Are they not invited?
Has a slight reek of ZANU PF..?
And how on earth will he deal with authority there or will he be promoted instantly to full general?

[1eyedfatman]

New book on Pathfinder Coy :

http://www.30degreessouth.co.za/index.php?nav=category&category_child=subcategory&category_id=1&subcategory_child=products&subcategory_id=56&view=84

Colonel Jan Breytenbach writes in the foreword: “On Ascension Day, 1978, a composite South African parachute battalion jumped onto the tactical HQ of SWAPO’s PLAN army, based at Cassinga, 250 kilometres north of the Angolan border to destroy the facility, their logistics, and to wipe out a strong concentration of SWAPO guerrillas. The airborne assault, part of Operation Reindeer, was an unqualified success; the whole base was destroyed. 608 PLAN fighters were killed, with many more wounded which pushed the final SWAPO death toll to well over a thousand. We lost only four paratroopers killed in action plus a dozen or so wounded. According to airborne experts in Britain and Australia, this was the most audacious parachute assault since the Second World War; the mounting airfield was well over 1,000 nautical miles away. I was the commander of that airborne assault, which although successful above all expectations, also highlighted many shortcomings, some of which nearly led to a disastrous outcome.”



44 Parachute Brigade was formed later that year, with the need for a specialist Pathfinder Company patently clear. Into the ranks came professional veterans from the UK, USA, Australasia, Rhodesia and elsewhere, from such Special Forces units as the SAS, Selous Scouts and the RLI. “This is their book, a collection of stories about the founding and deployment of a unit of ‘Foreign Legionnaires’, from different parts of the world who became welded together into a remarkable combat unit, unsurpassed by any other South African Defence Force unit in their positive and aggressive approach to battle. For me it was an honour to have faced incoming lead together with them.”


125300

[soutikghosh]

I do not know if these have been posted. I do not remember them being in this thread. The G5-52 being tested.

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/6526/g552upgradephoto4large.jpg

http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/1491/g552upgradephoto1large.jpg

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/7884/g552loader.jpg

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/9701/g552breech.jpg

http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/7842/g552upgradephoto5large.jpg

Now count the rounds. 1 - Chambered , 1 - on Rammer , 6 - Tray , 3 - Loader. Pretty impressive.

Any more PICS or INFO on this gun, Please Share.

[Rudolph]

Excellent pics, know nothing of this gun!

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rsa/g5-52.htm

[vor033]

The South African Army is offering young South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 22 (the maximum entry requirement for graduates is 26 years) an opportunity to serve in uniform over a two year period through the Military Skills Development System.

During the January 2010 South African Army intake, 2 804 newly selected Military Skills Development System members reported for Basic Military Training at the various South African Army training centres of excellence. 860 Members reported at 3 South African Army Infantry Battalion.

During the intake week, the recruits go through a Current Health Assessment and medical confirmation. Recruits may proceed with Basic Military Training after successfully passing the medical evaluation.
The South African Army consists out of a combat, technical as well as a support mustering.


The combat mustering includes the Infantry, Engineers, Armour, Artillery, Air Defence Artillery and Intelligence.
The technical mustering includes Technical Service, Signals and Ammunition Corps.
The support mustering includes Personnel, Logistics, Catering and Signals.


At 3 South African Army Infantry Battalion, Basic Military Training is presented to recruits who will further their training in the support- and technical mustering after successfully completing Basic Military Training. During this training, the recruits are exposed to new knowledge and skills in a very well structured and controlled manner to ensure that the purpose of Basic Military Training is achieved. The recruits at 3 South African Army Infantry Battalion have been allocated to five different companies that are involved in Basic Military Training (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Echo and Foxtrot Companies).

The new recruits selected for the Military Skills Development System have no previous military experience and come from different backgrounds and cultures. Training objectives are therefore focussed on instilling basic military skills and fostering a common military culture in which team work is of utmost importance.

The foundation of military discipline, critical soldier skills and competencies are laid during Basic Military Training. Discipline is enforced by the instructors. This contributes to effective teamwork and ensures that training objectives are met.

Basic Military Training forms an important building block in training a soldier. It is high intensity training spanning after hours during the week and weekends. Physical fitness forms an integral and important part of this training with fitness standards being raised incrementally.

During the visit to 3 South African Army Infantry Battalion over the period 21 to 25 February 2010, the recruits were busy with training in field craft, musketry , buddy aid, daily preparations for inspections, drilling as well as water safety.

A Mix of Photos from the course.

http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/7f5c179e.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/19a6e087.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/e4ebd157.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/890d61c0.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/19ea59bb.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/16391697.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/82f12530.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/32d6f699.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/59968c13.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/c1803d5d.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/845cf6f5.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/51042efe.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/6d1ffb55.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/e6d9b3c3.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/8d41e2a8.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/52bd0800.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/189fb865.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/13213ec2.jpg
http://i602.photobucket.com/albums/tt104/vor033/SANDF/dc7e2527.jpg

[wilhelm]

Anybody know what year the Veldskoen and Okapi MPV were developed?

[supercontra]

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/5184/3101.th.jpg (http://img263.imageshack.us/i/3101.jpg/) http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/6034/3102.th.jpg (http://img191.imageshack.us/i/3102.jpg/) http://img686.imageshack.us/img686/3669/3103.th.jpg (http://img686.imageshack.us/i/3103.jpg/) http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/4620/3104.th.jpg (http://img69.imageshack.us/i/3104.jpg/) http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/3319/3106.th.jpg (http://img237.imageshack.us/i/3106.jpg/) http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/9646/3105v.th.jpg (http://img684.imageshack.us/i/3105v.jpg/)

Is it possible to to make this article readable somewhere?

[playtym]

Is it possible to to make this article readable somewhere?

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/4858/3101q.th.jpg (http://img15.imageshack.us/i/3101q.jpg/)
http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/6034/3102.th.jpg (http://img191.imageshack.us/i/3102.jpg/)
http://img686.imageshack.us/img686/3669/3103.th.jpg (http://img686.imageshack.us/i/3103.jpg/)
http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/9646/3105v.th.jpg (http://img684.imageshack.us/i/3105v.jpg/)
http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/3319/3106.th.jpg (http://img237.imageshack.us/i/3106.jpg/)
http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/4620/3104.th.jpg (http://img69.imageshack.us/i/3104.jpg/)

[GETSOME]

Roofies eating out of plates,wheres the varkpanne?p-)

[Dinges]

Some pics from our flyboys in the Korean war.

http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/9941/saafp51korea.jpg

http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/1440/saafmustangskorea.jpg

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/9679/2saaff86robertspiwak.jpg

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/7295/osanab195318fbw2saafmai.jpg

http://img824.imageshack.us/img824/6664/osanab195318fbw2saaflan.jpg

[paluka]

The South African Army is offering young South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 22 (the maximum entry requirement for graduates is 26 years) an opportunity to serve in uniform over a two year period through the Military Skills Development System.

During the January 2010 South African Army intake, 2 804 newly selected Military Skills Development System members reported for Basic Military Training at the various South African Army training centres of excellence. 860 Members reported at 3 South African Army Infantry Battalion.

During the intake week, the recruits go through a Current Health Assessment and medical confirmation. Recruits may proceed with Basic Military Training after successfully passing the medical evaluation.
The South African Army consists out of a combat, technical as well as a support mustering.


The combat mustering includes the Infantry, Engineers, Armour, Artillery, Air Defence Artillery and Intelligence.
The technical mustering includes Technical Service, Signals and Ammunition Corps.
The support mustering includes Personnel, Logistics, Catering and Signals.


At 3 South African Army Infantry Battalion, Basic Military Training is presented to recruits who will further their training in the support- and technical mustering after successfully completing Basic Military Training. During this training, the recruits are exposed to new knowledge and skills in a very well structured and controlled manner to ensure that the purpose of Basic Military Training is achieved. The recruits at 3 South African Army Infantry Battalion have been allocated to five different companies that are involved in Basic Military Training (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Echo and Foxtrot Companies).

The new recruits selected for the Military Skills Development System have no previous military experience and come from different backgrounds and cultures. Training objectives are therefore focussed on instilling basic military skills and fostering a common military culture in which team work is of utmost importance.

The foundation of military discipline, critical soldier skills and competencies are laid during Basic Military Training. Discipline is enforced by the instructors. This contributes to effective teamwork and ensures that training objectives are met.

Basic Military Training forms an important building block in training a soldier. It is high intensity training spanning after hours during the week and weekends. Physical fitness forms an integral and important part of this training with fitness standards being raised incrementally.

During the visit to 3 South African Army Infantry Battalion over the period 21 to 25 February 2010, the recruits were busy with training in field craft, musketry , buddy aid, daily preparations for inspections, drilling as well as water safety.

A Mix of Photos from the course.

I was just thinking what is going to happen to the young, now military trained, individuals who are not interested in working. They will only be looked after for two years, if I understand it correctly. What then? Imagine cash in transit heists, bank robberies, farm attacks etc etc done with military style precision.

Does anybody know if background checks will be conducted on the new recruits to check for violent or criminal behaviour? From what I understand the programme is aimed at the disefranchised youth of SA that find it difficult to find employement. I am not too convinced that military training is the best way out.

What I do suggest though as that the recruits do tough basic traiing that exclude the use target practice or any shooting. Just raw discipline, PT and tough military traiing. Once they have show they have the mental capacity, steer them into a technical direction with which they could serve the SANDF as well as civillian jobs i.e. mechical engineering, electrical engineering, shef, radio engineering etc etc. The military is the perfect place to learn your trade in technology. I remember the technical colleges in PTA close to the former Verwoerdburg stad where numerous technical personnel did their apprenticeships back in the 80's and 90's. Wonder if they are still operational.

[playtym]

Roofies eating out of plates,wheres the varkpanne?p-)

Um, ja, I guess now that it's voluntary they have to treat them like humans or nobody would pitch up. p-)

[playtym]

http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/772/7med02.jpg

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/9199/7med01.jpg

[playtym]

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/6917/maritimereactionsquadro.jpg

http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/6917/maritimereactionsquadro.jpg

http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/6917/maritimereactionsquadro.jpg

[playtym]

http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/5889/borderpatrol.jpg

http://img834.imageshack.us/img834/1896/45215399.jpg

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/2451/gila.jpg

[Laworkerbee]

What types of ATGM does the SADF use?

[Dinges]

What types of ATGM does the SADF use?

Crewserved would be the French made Milan.

Vehicle mounted would be the Ingwe: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ingwe_%28missile%29

And from air it is the Mokopa : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mokopa

And IIRC there was a crewserved version of the Ingwe as well. I think I have a pic. But not sure if it was adopted. Yep here it is:

It's called the Ingwe Universal Launch Platform

http://img688.imageshack.us/img688/4471/ingweuniversallaunchpla.jpg

[Laworkerbee]

Thank you!

[dy031101]

Hello, everyone.

I've been looking for line drawings of the Tank Technology Demonstrator. I've found a side view in this thread...... does a top view and front view exist?

Also, I remember there to be a prototype drone called Skylark(?) that has a rather interesting tailless delta wing planform, with a pair of vertical control surfaces at the wing leading edge. Does anyone have a picture of it, too?

Thanks in advance.

[playtym]

Trap for 'rapist' backfires badly

Pretoria – A female member of the defence force was raped when a trap for her supposed rapist, a soldier, went horribly wrong.

The alleged rapist, a chief petty officer in the navy, was arrested by the military police (MP) shortly after the incident in a mess hall at Thaba Tshwane.http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/Trap-for-rapist-backfires-badly-20100802


That's the problem with fishing - it normally doesn't end well for the bait. :-|

[wilhelm]

Hello, everyone.

I've been looking for line drawings of the Tank Technology Demonstrator. I've found a side view in this thread...... does a top view and front view exist?

Also, I remember there to be a prototype drone called Skylark(?) that has a rather interesting tailless delta wing planform, with a pair of vertical control surfaces at the wing leading edge. Does anyone have a picture of it, too?


I'll have a look and see what I have about the TTd at home.

[Dinges]

Hello, everyone.


Also, I remember there to be a prototype drone called Skylark(?) that has a rather interesting tailless delta wing planform, with a pair of vertical control surfaces at the wing leading edge. Does anyone have a picture of it, too?

Thanks in advance.

Is it this one?

http://a.imageshack.us/img98/3687/dsc04692h.jpg

[dy031101]

Thanks.


Is it this one?

Unfortunately no- the drone was propeller-driven, and two of its vertical control surfaces are on the wing leading edge.

[playtym]

http://imageshack.us/thumbnmail.png (http://img821.imageshack.us/i/image0370.jpg/)http://a.imageshack.us/img413/4653/image0366.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img717/295/image0367e.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img291/8404/image0368.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img825/3520/image0369.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img821/8217/image0370.jpg
http://imageshack.us/thumbnmail.png (http://img291.imageshack.us/i/image0368.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://a.imageshack.us/img844/5593/image0379.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img823/4751/image0380.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img340/8977/image0381.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img153/6252/image0382a.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img822/1725/image0383.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img825/3861/image0384.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img820/1989/image0385.jpg

[playtym]

http://a.imageshack.us/img823/7122/image0386.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img251/5527/image0387.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img412/3434/image0388.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img440/4074/image0389.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img192/8440/image0390.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img541/5944/image0391.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img827/941/image0392.jpg

[Maktab]

Also, I remember there to be a prototype drone called Skylark(?) that has a rather interesting tailless delta wing planform, with a pair of vertical control surfaces at the wing leading edge. Does anyone have a picture of it, too?

Thanks in advance.

You're thinking of the Lark, made by Kentron (now Denel Dynamics). It's an anti-radiation and defence suppression strike drone with secondary surveillance capabilities that first flew in 1994. It's powered by a single 38 hp UEL AR 731 rotary piston engine and launched via a booster rocket. Recovery, if it was needed, was by parachute. Cruise speed was 107 knots with a 4 500 m ceiling and 6.5 hour endurance. In the strike role it would loiter over the battlefield on a pre-determined course, analysing the electronic radar emissions on the battlefield and comparing them to its internal threat library. Once a match was found, it was designed to dive onto the target at 250 knots and destroy it with its 20 kg fragmenting HE warhead. Standard anti-radiation strike drone stuff, in other words.

None entered service with the SANDF, but Iran appears to have bought at least one at some point, judging by the picture I'm pasting here. The Iranians also have a UAV in service that looks remarkably like the Seeker II, for what it's worth. Denel no longer offers the Lark for sale.

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/6392/51760586.jpg (http://img337.imageshack.us/i/51760586.jpg/)

http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/4553/11527321.jpg (http://img251.imageshack.us/i/11527321.jpg/)

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/4652/15015075.jpg (http://img708.imageshack.us/i/15015075.jpg/)

http://img837.imageshack.us/img837/7615/38141248.jpg (http://img837.imageshack.us/i/38141248.jpg/)


Lark on display at Iranian military parade, circa 2005/2006.

http://img801.imageshack.us/img801/3847/50704951.jpg (http://img801.imageshack.us/i/50704951.jpg/)

[dy031101]

The very one! Thanks, Maktab!

[playtym]

Cape Town - Air Force chief Carlo Gagiono must explain to Parliament why the Rooivalk attack helicopters have been grounded and how this was affecting the combat readiness of the military, the DA said on Thursday.
"A number of recent reports suggest that most of the Rooivalk attack helicopters, operated by the South African Air Force's 16 Squadron, have been grounded and are in storage," Democratic Alliance defence spokesperson David Maynier said.
"The entire fleet of attack helicopters - that have reportedly cost the taxpayer R8bn to develop - appear to be in mothballs."
http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/Politics/DA-demands-Rooivalk-briefing-20100812

[baboon6]

Anybody else planning on going to the SA Artillery open day in Potchefstroom on 28 August?

[Dinges]

Anybody else planning on going to the SA Artillery open day in Potchefstroom on 28 August?

I miss that every year. Probably going to again this year. But remember tomorrow ( August 14 ) , is the Air Show at Swartkops AFB for the 90th Birthday of the SAAF. Not missing that though!

And it looks like a Cheetah D is slated for flying display!

[curious george]

Thinking about going,but its an awefully long way to drive from PE just for w/end,but tere are long lost family in Gauteng lol!

[drevil5000]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66TZp21HbQk

Mamba MK3's if I'm not mistaken.

[playtym]

http://a.imageshack.us/img709/8287/cid92112ef3508b44a1be20.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img8/9308/cidb8087db0825940468bd4.jpg

http://a.imageshack.us/img694/9382/cidd3edfdfb0b0a4d5c9d2b.jpg

[Alfacentori]

Beautiful!

Any news on the state of pilot and support staffing levels?

Alfa

[Rudolph]

^
Most of the pilots are white guys eyeing retirement, but due to the financial crises the air force was happy to report that many who looked for overseas jobs couldn't get them!

[Alfacentori]

^
Most of the pilots are white guys eyeing retirement, but due to the financial crises the air force was happy to report that many who looked for overseas jobs couldn't get them!

Im sure the RAAF could find a place for them :)

Alfa

[playtym]

Army at border shows success

Komatipoort - The deployment of troops to the border between South Africa and Mozambique was succeeding in curbing illegal immigrants and smuggling, the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) said on Wednesday.

Since soldiers were redeployed to the area on May 18, all stations had been manned, said SANDF Mpumalanga commanding officer Colonel Patrick Bobelo. The area houses the main border post between the countries.

He said soldiers had recovered five vehicles that people were trying to smuggle over the mountainous border perimeter.

In one of them, a 4x4, a policeman was arrested with illegal goods.

Rifleman Mxolisiwe Mkwakwe, 27, from the second substation nearest to Komatipoort, said on Monday that 13 men had tried to carry 13 bags over the border at the top of a mountain.

"They tried to bribe us but we didn’t take it. They said R2 000," he said from outside the one-bedroomed patrol-home he shares with six other men.http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/Politics/Army-at-border-shows-success-20100818


Good show on the part of the Defence Force.

[playtym]

Rocket launchers missing - SANDF

Cape Town - Six rocket launchers and four mortars are among weaponry that has gone missing from SA National Defence Force arsenals over the past year, Defence and Military Veterans Minister Lindiwe Sisulu (http://www.whoswhosa.co.za/user/906) revealed on Monday.

The missing launchers include three 88mm anti-tank weapons, which can be used to knock out armoured vehicles.

In a written response to a parliamentary question, Sisulu gave details of weapons that had "been stolen or gone missing" from the SANDF over the past three years.

According to a table included in the reply - titled "Firearm losses of the DOD (department of defence)" - weapon losses during 2009 included:

- five 9mm pistols;
- six 5.56mm rifles;
- seven 7.62mm rifles;
- one 7.70mm rifle;
- six 0.22 (inch) rifles;
- four 60mm mortars;
- one 81mm mortar;
- three 88mm rocket launchers;
- two 40mm rocket launchers; and
- one 70mm rocket launcher.

The table did not indicate whether the stolen or missing launchers and mortars included rockets and shells.http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/Rocket-launchers-missing-SANDF-20100823

Oops! :|

"40mm rocket launchers"? Grenade launchers, or is this how they describe an RPG-7?
"70mm rocket launcher"? They misplaced the pod off of a Rooivalk? I thought they belonged to the Airforce? http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j130/playtym/Smileys/hmm.gif

[Foxtrot Alpha Whiskey]

Even though that table seems quite disturbing especially seeing as there a 7.7mm rifle missing which could only be a scoped weapon? Correct me if im wrong.

[marius72za]

Even though that table seems quite disturbing especially seeing as there a 7.7mm rifle missing which could only be a scoped weapon? Correct me if im wrong.

It was used without a scope.........the scope was either broken or stolen.

[Foxtrot Alpha Whiskey]

very funny

[curious george]

Accountability/taking responsibility-we wont see any of that!

So,were can I place my order for goodies?

[playtym]

Even though that table seems quite disturbing especially seeing as there a 7.7mm rifle missing which could only be a scoped weapon? Correct me if im wrong.

I'm guessing that it's a Lee Enfield .303 rifle that they've misplaced - probably a No.4 Mk II.

[Foxtrot Alpha Whiskey]

So a mueseum piece then?

[playtym]

Well, it's a WWII era rifle, but still in working condition. They were selling off their stores of .303's for R35 ($7) each a while back, some still brand new and in the original packing grease and wrapping, but I heard that whatever was left had recently been dumped out at sea. Maybe it's just fudged paperwork on this one.
You could also buy a .38S&W revolver from them for R8 ($1) back then.

[baboon6]

Well, it's a WWII era rifle, but still in working condition. They were selling off their stores of .303's for R35 ($7) each a while back, some still brand new and in the original packing grease and wrapping, but I heard that whatever was left had recently been dumped out at sea. Maybe it's just fudged paperwork on this one.
You could also buy a .38S&W revolver from them for R8 ($1) back then.

IIRC something like about 2000 Vickers guns (some of them converted to 7.62mm) were destroyed a few years ago.

[Foxtrot Alpha Whiskey]

I really hope they kept some as muesuem pieces otherwise thats a load of history lost there.

On another note I would of loved to get a Lee Enfield for 35 bucks even if it meant having the firing mechanisim removed to circumvent the firearm laws because lets be honest here it would take forever to get a lisecne for that thing.

[marius72za]

So a mueseum piece then? Yes the military museum was also raided!

[RAD72]

http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/9040/attachmentxr9.th.jpg (http://img398.imageshack.us/my.php?image=attachmentxr9.jpg)

Is there a good book that describes these vehicles in detail?

[flanker7]

http://mysite.mweb.co.za/residents/brent_best/misc/potch/20100828_EOS500D_023901.jpg

Damn Rifle Grenades! M-791A3. One broken lip due to them kicking like a mule :-)

[B. Traven]

135226135225135224135223


SANDF 118 Infantry Battalion at and near secret military base deep in the Kruger Park (Punda Milia entrance), main task: pursuit of illegal aliens from Mozambique. Apparently, they sneak in across the border and walk deep in SA at night following the red lights on top of the electric power pylons for orientation. SANDF sets up ambushes.

[baboon6]

Some of my photos from the Artillery Open Day. Unfortunately I was too far away and had too weak a camera to get decent pics of the demonstration itself but it was very impressive. I've never been near 120mm mortars, 155mm guns and 127mm rockets being fired before and the sound and pressure are something else! The small stuff-R4s, MAGs, 40mm grenade launchers, .50 Brownings, 60mm patrol mortars, rifle grenades-was pretty good too.

G6:

http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/4963/img0667l.jpg (http://img255.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0667l.jpg)

Gekko ATV:

http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/4453/img0668o.jpg (http://img823.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0668o.jpg)


http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/1771/img0669q.jpg (http://img823.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0669q.jpg)

120mm mortar:

http://img831.imageshack.us/img831/4152/img0670d.jpg (http://img831.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0670d.jpg)

120mm mortar on Gekko trailer:

http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/4605/img0671wq.jpg (http://img707.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0671wq.jpg)

Vulture UAV:

http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/3736/img0672fc.jpg (http://img689.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0672fc.jpg)

Agusta A109:

http://img837.imageshack.us/img837/9046/img0673l.jpg (http://img837.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0673l.jpg)

http://img833.imageshack.us/img833/6848/img0675u.jpg (http://img833.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0675u.jpg)

Oryx:

http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/337/img0677l.jpg (http://img836.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0677l.jpg)

http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/6339/img0690z.jpg (http://img827.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0690z.jpg)

[RAD72]

ITwas only years later reading the book South African Arms & Armour by Helmoed-Romer Heitman that I discovered it was actually called the MG4.

Does this book include prototype armour such as the Rooikat development vehicles, and the AC 200?

[Foxtrot Alpha Whiskey]

what happened to my post on the artillary day, it seems to just have disappeared

[digrar]

You hotlinked the image, in effect you stole that image and the bandwidth from another person. That person got in touch with us and reported you for that theft of bandwidth, it was deleted. Hotlinking images breaks forum rules, all images must be hosted.

[Foxtrot Alpha Whiskey]

oh sorry, wont do it again

[baboon6]

Article with some photos from the Artillery Open Day Here:

http://newsite.ipmssa.za.org/content/view/474/28/1/0/

[AtK]

Mistaken - Mk3 only deployed externally thos are Mk2 (see big bins on the side)

[playtym]

Soldiers taget Union Buildings again

Pretoria - Soldiers are preparing to march on the Union Buildings in Pretoria next month to hand over a memorandum, the South African Security Forces' Union (Sasfu) said in Pretoria on Sunday.
Sasfu's Gauteng chairperson Mfazwe Plaatjie said the union also planned to take legal action against Defence and Military Veterans Minister Lindiwe Sisulu (http://www.whoswhosa.co.za/user/906) for keeping hundreds of soldiers on special leave.
He said that the soldiers were placed on special leave and had not worked since the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) identified them as having taken part in a march in August 2009, when police used rubber bullets to disperse the soldiers.
"They are paying people who are sitting at home doing nothing. This is wasting taxpayers' money and it is against a court order," he said.
Shortly after the march, the SANDF sent out letters to about 1 500 soldiers dismissing them unless they were able to explain their whereabouts on August 26 2009.
On September 9, the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria ruled that they needed to be reinstated with full benefits.
Plaatjie said most were placed on special leave and he believed about 200 were still not working.
Interdict

Defence ministry spokesperson Ndivhuwo Wa Ha Mabaya said: "Sasfu have said often before that they want to march. I can't comment on speculation."
However, Plaatjie said the government was aware of the planned march on October 23.
"They are aware of it now and if they want to stop it they must do it now so that we can defend ourselves in court," he said, adding that the government had been aware of the August 26 march for some weeks.
"There is no need for an urgent interdict. We are giving them prior notice of the march," he said.
He said that apart from demanding the reinstatement of soldiers still on special leave, the union was also demanding that the minister should use the Military Bargaining Council to hear the soldiers complaints.
He said the council was a legitimate body gazetted by the government in August 1999.
He said the last time unions had met with a defence minister or his representative was Mosiuoa Lekota (http://www.whoswhosa.co.za/user/914) in 2007.
Sasfu also called on the SANDF to stop harassing union members and to improve the remuneration of all soldiers, including housing allowances.
Spies

It also demanded rapid transformation of the SANDF.
Plaatjie said this included revealing the names of the former freedom fighters who spied for the apartheid regime and a review of military skills development contracts, under which youngsters were recruited for a period of two years.
He said that those who signed up had been trained in the use of weapons, but had no other skills after two years. He said the contracts should be for a longer period.
"You are in danger of releasing criminals and people who only know how to shoot. They need other skills before they get released," said Plaatjie.
He also urged Sisulu to release the Interim Military Service Commission report.
The commission was established after the march in August 2009, but to date its report has not been published.
"We would like to know what it says. This report cost taxpayers' money. South Africans would like to know what it says," said Sasfu deputy president Charles Jacobs.


http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/Soldiers-taget-Union-Buildings-again-20100919

[Foxtrot Alpha Whiskey]

What on earth are they complaining about transformation. As far as I can tell the majority of the armed forces are black

[playtym]

From the Paratus magazine, May 1974.

http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/884/image0403.th.jpg (http://img69.imageshack.us/i/image0403.jpg/) http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/8958/image0404.th.jpg (http://img34.imageshack.us/i/image0404.jpg/) http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/1354/image0405z.th.jpg (http://img714.imageshack.us/i/image0405z.jpg/) http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/9485/image0406.th.jpg (http://img210.imageshack.us/i/image0406.jpg/) http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/6769/image0407t.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/i/image0407t.jpg/) http://img839.imageshack.us/img839/4240/image0408.th.jpg (http://img839.imageshack.us/i/image0408.jpg/) http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/2862/image0409.th.jpg (http://img138.imageshack.us/i/image0409.jpg/)

[playtym]

Pop quiz. Who can ID the people in this photo?

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/1259/image0410a.jpg

Hint: It's from the same Paratus magazine as the article above.

[curious george]

Pop quiz. Who can ID the people in this photo?

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/1259/image0410a.jpg

Hint: It's from the same Paratus magazine as the article above.
I'll take a quick stab,but vague references 1st(not to spoil the fun):
maggie,die groot krokodil,nsm & hugo b.?My guess!

[playtym]

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/15/image0417.th.jpg (http://img201.imageshack.us/i/image0417.jpg/) http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/1083/image0418.th.jpg (http://img16.imageshack.us/i/image0418.jpg/) http://img710.imageshack.us/img710/6620/image0419.th.jpg (http://img710.imageshack.us/i/image0419.jpg/)

[playtym]

I'll take a quick stab,but vague references 1st(not to spoil the fun):
maggie,die groot krokodil,nsm & hugo b.?My guess!

100% correct!

[playtym]

http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/2600/image0413.th.jpg (http://img822.imageshack.us/i/image0413.jpg/) http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/4007/image0414.th.jpg (http://img180.imageshack.us/i/image0414.jpg/) http://img39.imageshack.us/img39/8522/image0415.th.jpg (http://img39.imageshack.us/i/image0415.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://img690.imageshack.us/img690/3245/image0420p.th.jpg (http://img690.imageshack.us/i/image0420p.jpg/) http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/9946/image0421.th.jpg (http://img651.imageshack.us/i/image0421.jpg/) http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/4971/image0422.th.jpg (http://img135.imageshack.us/i/image0422.jpg/)

[playtym]

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/1127/image0411a.jpg

http://img832.imageshack.us/img832/8771/image0411c.jpg

[Cpl Kat]

Beat me to it for the pop quiz. Magnus is a big dude. One day I literally ran into him while going up some stairs. He was going down and I was running up and hit him with my head. He was pretty nice about it. I saw a recent photo of Magnus and he is pretty old.

A friend of mine passed the Recce selection but asked for RTU as "they are crazy". I grew up with this guy and I always thought he was crazy. He wasn't scared of anything and would do insane things so his decision not to continue with the recces said a lot.

Twin brothers that were in basics with me passed recce selection and started their training. One brother was killed during a live fire exercise. Last I heard (many years ago) the other brother was a recce major.

[playtym]

I don't know the date on the article, but probably from around the time Britain was looking at buying attack helicopters..

http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/149/page0001k.jpg

[Alfacentori]

Pity it never happened, but its to far behind the times now and to expensive compared to other newer options

Alfa

[Peter Wells]

Just for info.

I live in Roodepoort and regularly see Oryx and Rooivalk choppers overhead heading South - Bloemspruit, Lohatla or wherever. Most recently 4 of each last Sunday +_ 10:00.

Many happy memories of the Oryx/Pumas but never had anything to do with Rooivalk - damn!

[Cpl Kat]

I worked on the Rooivalk for several years right up to when I left the RSA in 1993. At that time the project was still going strong and the first prototype was finished and we had the big launch.

The Rooivalk has great potential and its a great pity it was never widely adopted.

[wilhelm]

[QUOTE=Cpl Kat;5223202]I worked on the Rooivalk for several years right up to when I left the RSA in 1993. At that time the project was still going strong and the first prototype was finished and we had the big launch.

QUOTE]
Were you in the aviation industry?
Denel/Atlas?

[Cpl Kat]

Atlas sub-contractor

[wilhelm]

Atlas sub-contractor

Thanks Cpl kat

Private message sent to you.

[playtym]

I don't remember seeing these here before.

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/7497/opssuttonheath1pw3.jpg

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/5056/opsridingovambogv8.jpg

I'm not going to copy and past all of his pictures, so have a look at this link (http://www.wilddog.za.net/forum/index.php?topic=3986.0) - it's a post by a bloke who was based outside Otavi with SWASPES, operating with bikes. Loads of good info and pics, and a book in the works, by the sounds of it.

[Laworkerbee]

Nice find!

[playtym]

Thanks to a friends Facebook I found the SWASPES Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1507835&o=all&op=1&view=all&subj=10285990471&id=1069070678&ref=nf#%21/group.php?gid=38920748330&v=photos) and the SADF Dog Unit Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=10285990471#%21/group.php?gid=10285990471&v=photos)

There are good pics on both.

SWASPES

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/3429/61787162624477087826100.jpg

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/2848/60968162624280421179100.jpg

http://img692.imageshack.us/img692/2406/45151157579695740111518.jpg

http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/9594/45151157585855894111518.jpg

Dog Unit

http://img831.imageshack.us/img831/9907/45508159347003633212233.jpg

http://img64.imageshack.us/img64/3280/40483151147914146810690.jpg

[Dinges]

I'm not going to copy and past all of his pictures, so have a look at this link (http://www.wilddog.za.net/forum/index.php?topic=3986.0) - it's a post by a bloke who was based outside Otavi with SWASPES, operating with bikes. Loads of good info and pics, and a book in the works, by the sounds of it.

Thanks playtym. Helluva read all the way.

[billjim]

Hi all,
I have been following this thread for awhile but this is my first post. I am currently preparing a research article on the Ratel ICV family for the magazine Model Military International and I am currently looking for photos of the Ratel for use in the article. If there is anyone out there who could help me out please let me know. Full credit to the photographer will be given in the article.

cheers

[Dinges]

I would start here:

http://www.sa-transport.co.za/military/armoured_vehicles_3.html

And I will see what I have. Ask other members also. You may just get too much to handle!:)

[billjim]

I would start here:

http://www.sa-transport.co.za/military/armoured_vehicles_3.html

And I will see what I have. Ask other members also. You may just get too much to handle!:)


Thanks for that prion I would like to get more than I can handle. I have always had an interest in SA armour. I have just got one of Baxmod 1/35 scale Ratel kits that will be part of the article.

cheers

[wilhelm]

Below are some great links on South African weapon projects. You will need to register to see most of the pictures, but it is free.

http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,8883.0.html

http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,9088.0.html

[wilhelm]

And two further topics:

http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,8913.0.html

http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,8696.0.html

[playtym]

Air Force keeps mum on combat pilots

The SA Air Force (SAAF) on Wednesday invoked "national security" to avoid telling MPs how many fully-trained combat pilots it had to fly its multi-billion-rand Gripen fighter and Hawk fighter-trainer aircraft. This question, among others, came after a briefing by SAAF air capability planning director, Brigadier-General Wiseman Mbambo, to members of Parliament's defence portfolio committee.
In the briefing, he told MPs that "inadequate funding" of the Hawk and Gripen combat systems had placed these "in the balance", and the SAAF "has not been able to generate the required number of flying hours and re-provision the systems adequately".
To save on costs, pilots were training on Pilatus aircraft rather than the Hawks, because these were cheaper to operate, Mbambo said.
This prompted at least two MPs to inquire on the number of qualified combat pilots available for the Hawks and Gripens.
Responding, Mbambo called on committee chairperson Mnyamezeli Booi (http://www.whoswhosa.co.za/user/7486) to advise him whether or not to answer this question.
"I would like to get some advice on that one because it touches exactly on the... security of the country in terms of what we have currently for combat readiness."
Mbambo had earlier been cautioned by the chairperson not to venture into areas that touched on national security.
His call for advice prompted an objection from Freedom Front Plus MP Pieter Groenewald.
"That can't be a threat (to national security). I've asked this question in Parliament a couple of times. What is the threat? To know how many combat pilots we have? Let us know!" he said.
Booi then asked Mbambo if he was saying divulging this information was a threat to national security.

Short of funds

Mbambo responded: "It's digging into the actual capability that we have. Another thing... the combat readiness of pilots will differ from time to time. I can give you an answer now, but as I walk out of this room, the answer is not perfect anymore."
Booi then ruled that the question was "bordering on national security"; that Mbambo was not in a position, as a serving officer, to answer it; and, would have to consult Defence Minister Lindiwe Sisulu (http://www.whoswhosa.co.za/user/906) before providing an answer.
He further suggested the question could be "posed through the parliamentary system to the minister herself".
Earlier, Mbambo sketched a picture of an airforce that was desperately short of funds.
The SAAF's budget allocation for 2009/10 had been R3.1bn, of which R1.6bn was for personnel and R1.5bn for operations.
"In the year under review, the SAAF was under-funded to the tune of R132m, specifically on operations," he said.
Reporting on the SAAF's air combat capability, he said it had been planned to fly 950 training hours, but only 715 were achieved.
"The reasons include: substantial underfunding of the systems; long lead times on spares; the Gripen support package has not been fully delivered (during the year under review); and a software upgrade on the Hawks which affected availability," Mbambo said.
MPs also heard the SAAF had been forced to dig into its severely-strained operations budget to fund capital equipment.
"If we do not take operational funds to buy spares, we will not be able to fly the aircraft," an official told the committee.http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/Politics/Air-Force-keeps-mum-on-combat-pilots-20101117


How many fully trained combat pilots do we have?
Hmmm.... Somewhere between 0% and 10% of what's required? http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j130/playtym/Smileys/hmm.gif


If it was anywhere near to being a decent number I imagine they'd want us all to know just how marvellous they were.

[playtym]

Heavy seas damage frigate engine, Navy short of submariners (http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10644:heavy-seas-damage-frigate-engine-navy-short-of-submariners-&catid=51:Sea&Itemid=106)

Minutes after hearing that the four 121-metre long Meko A200SAN frigates operated by the South African Navy (SAN) were the "perfect ships for our type of coast", MPs were told the rough seas had irreparably damaged an engine on one of the warships. This will now have to be replaced at a cost of R16 million.

Briefing the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans on the frigates, Teuteberg said the “starboard propulsion unit on one of the frigates is broken. An investigation subsequently discovered a shortcoming on an underwater exhaust valve, the South African Press Association reports. "We believe this to be a design shortcoming, but particular to the sea states we operate in. It happened when the vessel was rolling excessively and therefore the pressure changed as the exhaust went down. And there was water ingress... to the engine, [which] damaged the crankshaft of this engine," he said.

The discovery of the faulty valve had led to an investigation of the Navy's three other frigates. "An... engineering change was done in order to improve the closing of the valves under extreme conditions," Teuteberg said.

Earlier, he told members South Africa had got "the best value for money ever" when it bought the frigates from Germany, SAPA reported. "They are brilliant. At sea they are capable, they've got long legs, they've got speed when you require them, the sensors work beautifully... I tell you, perfect ships for our type of coast." Teuteberg said the damaged frigate – which he did not name – would need a new engine. "A new engine will cost us R16 million. We have to remove the [damaged] engine and replace it. We have the necessary money, and we're ordering the new engine."

The operation would involve cutting open the vessel's hull, in what he described as a "major evolution" set for next year. The frigate was currently operational, propelled by its port engine and gas turbine-driven water jet, but confined to coastal waters. "We would not send her beyond that," Teuteberg said.

The ships are fitted with a CODAG-WARP (COmbined Diesel And Gas turbine-WAter jet and Refined Propellers) propulsion system conisting of a General Electric LM 2500 gas turbine delivering 20,000kw (26,820 hp) and two MTU 16-valve 1163 TB93 diesels, each delivering 5920kW or a combined 11.84mW (16,102 hp). It is one of these latter machines that have been damaged.

The class was acquired for R9.6 billion as part of Project Sitron,a component of the controversial Strategic Defence Package signed on December 3, 1999. The contracts became effective on April 28, 2000. The Amatola arrived in South African waters in November 2004, the Isandhlwana in February 2005, the Spioenkop in May and the Mendi in September 2005. http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=10644:heavy-seas-damage-frigate-engine-navy-short-of-submariners-&catid=51:Sea&Itemid=106

Eish! It just broke. p-)

[playtym]

Hmmm.... Somewhere between 0% and 10% of what's required? http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j130/playtym/Smileys/hmm.gif

Nine, apparently.



Combat pilots - secret's out

Pretoria - The air force's "secret" about the number of qualified Gripen fighter pilots was recently made public in great detail by its own officers during a briefing.

The sudden secrecy regarding the numbers is probably the result of the growing persecution complex, which has been siphoning downward from the defence ministry, experts said on Thursday.

During a recent visit to 2 Squadron at the Makhado air force base, where the Gripens are based, the air force held a comprehensive briefing regarding its fighter pilots.

Brigadier General John Bayne, director of combat systems in the air force explained at the first solo flight of locally-trained Gripen pilots that the first six South African pilots were trained by the SAAB aviation and defence company in Sweden.

SAAB is the manufacturer of the Gripens.

Lieutenant Colonel Musa Mbhokota, the squadron's operations officer, said at the same occasion that the squadron will train a further three Gripen pilots next year.

Coincidentally, Mbhokota is one of the six who were trained in Sweden.

Solo flights

On this occasion three pilots, including the first female Gripen pilot, and a navigator conducted their first solo flights.

This brings the total number of trained pilots to nine, with another three to follow next year.

Brigadier General Wiseman Mbambo of the air force refused to say how many pilots there are at a Parliamentary briefing on Wednesday.

He said such a disclosure would involve "a threat to national security".

Lately similar excuses have been offered by the defence ministry as the reason why details about VIP flights and those of President Jacob Zuma (http://www.whoswhosa.co.za/user/927) also can't be disclosed.

According to military expert Helmoed-Römer Heitman, it is clear that the air force has no policy regarding what is classified and what not.

"Senior officers now look like fools because there's no proper, logical policy regarding what they are allowed to say. In this case they might be a little embarrassed to say there are only nine Gripen pilots.

"It's almost like a revival of the era of General Magnus Malan (former minister of defence) when no-one was allowed to release information without permission.

"Under Mosiuoa Lekota (http://www.whoswhosa.co.za/user/914) (former minister of defence) this practice gained new momentum, and now it appears to be common practice to avoid uncomfortable answers by invoking 'national security'," Heitman said.

Bayne said at a recent briefing that the air force has already received 16 of the 26 Gripens on order. http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/Politics/Combat-pilots-secrets-out-20101118

[filaoom]

first post... saw pics on swaspes, and apparently the SANDF is looking to re - establish 12 SAI which was the unit who trained those guys. would take an equestrian post anyday.

[smityb]

does anyone know about the latest SANDF rucksack used by the special forces (im guessing) its the one in S2000 pattern and has pouches on the back and side unlike the regular nutria version which only has on the side, ive never seen any of these on the internet before, so any help would be much appreciated.

[exMechman]

I think you might be looking for this.
143903

[smityb]

I think you might be looking for this.
143903
yes! thats the one. thanks :)

[Piepalook]

first post... saw pics on swaspes, and apparently the SANDF is looking to re - establish 12 SAI which was the unit who trained those guys. would take an equestrian post anyday.

I was trained at 6SAI in Grahamstown.
After basic training we were selected for further training at SADF Equestrian centre at Potchefstroom.
Both the bike squad and equestrian units underwent training at Potch.
At first both the Pathfinders and the dog units underwent training at the same base in Potch but were later moved.
The dog unit ended up in Bourkes Luck.
The pathfinders ended up with SWA SPES.
Their NCO rank markings were different to ours. Ours stripes were in a V shape wheras SWASPES used horizontal stripes.
The photographs above depicts the black net webbing that was issued to SADF Equestrian troops.
I stand to be corrected but we were the only unit to be issued with the black net webbing in the SADF.

[Leftimies]

No, the R-4. A copy of the Galil.

That's funny:grin:. R-4 is copy of Galil, and Galil is copy of RK 62, which is a copy of AK-47. Finally, AK 47 is copy of MP 44. Everything leads back to Germany, huh?:)

By the way, kudos to the South African Army! It looks extremely well prepared for an army that only has inferior armies around itself;-)

[Dinges]

That's funny:grin:. R-4 is redesign of Galil, and Galil is redesign of RK 62, which is a redesign of AK-47. Finally, AK 47 is copy of MP 44. Everything leads back to Germany, huh?:)

By the way, kudos to the South African Army! It looks extremely well prepared for an army that only has inferior armies around itself;-)

Beg to differ. Fixed it for you.:)


"AK 47 is copy of MP 44"

Nope. The Stg44 is another story to be told.

[gaijinsamurai]

Agreed, Prion. The "AK-47 is a copy of the MP44" statement is usually the sign of a firearms amateur, who thinks he's an expert.

Internally, they are very different.

[marius72za]

Beg to differ. Fixed it for you.:)


"AK 47 is copy of MP 44"

Nope. The Stg44 is another story to be told.

No the MP 44 and AK 47 is two different weapons......maybe the Air soft variants are the same but not the real deal

[Foxtrot Alpha Whiskey]

Just for those that missed the topic in the General Discussions thread.

A Casspir MkII clearing landmines at Bagram Airbase, Afghanistan.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZsbwSAfcJ1g&fmt=18

[Dinges]

Here is a pdf for the Casspir in the video ^ :

http://www.legervoertuigen.nl/casspir/casspir_info.pdf

[playtym]

Uniformed SANDF members involved in a robbery (http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?77224-South-African-Police-Service-%28SAPS%29&p=5367216&viewfull=1#post5367216), or were they just being impersonated?

[Dinges]

Uniformed SANDF members involved in a robbery (http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?77224-South-African-Police-Service-%28SAPS%29&p=5367216&viewfull=1#post5367216), or were they just being impersonated?

Doubt it.......