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Our military is in free fall, and it is deeply concerning that we do not have a full picture of its decline. The South African National Defence Force’s (SANDF) last strategic review was over a decade ago. The images of our troops in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), while harrowing, were sadly predictable.

To save lives and keep our nation safe, the DA calls for the completion of the reassessment of the 2015 Defence Review. This must be based on an assessment of the type and size of defence force that South Africa needs, aligned to our security requirements, to be fully funded and must include:

A full audit of SANDF assets, including aircraft, naval vessels, landward assets and other critical infrastructure, to determine their operational readiness and cost-effectiveness.

An in-depth review of human resources, assessing personnel capacity, training, and management structures to ensure the SANDF is adequately prepared for its duties, including peacekeeping missions.

A financial management evaluation, identifying inefficiencies and wasteful expenditure including on travel, accommodation, consultants and outsourcing.

A strategic capabilities assessment, examining whether the SANDF is equipped to fulfil its mandate, particularly in foreign deployments and peacekeeping operations.

The reassessment of the 2015 Defence Review, initiated by former Minister of Defence Thandi Modise more than two years ago, was due for completion by 31 October 2024. The 2015 Defence Review was never funded and not a single milestone has been achieved.

The SANDF is now burdened with an aging personnel corps, outdated and poorly maintained equipment, as well as severe mismanagement compounded by corruption. These shortcomings have placed both our troops and the country’s security at significant risk.

The DA urges government to prioritise this reassessment without delay. The SANDF is at a crossroads, and without a clear understanding of its current state, meaningful reform will be impossible. South Africa cannot afford another military disaster—decisive action is needed now.

Issued by Chris Hattingh MP - DA Spokesperson on Defence & Military Veterans