The Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor) has taken a significant step towards
strengthening the operational readiness of the South African Air Force (SAAF) through the
appointment of service providers to maintain and service its critical prime mission equipment.
The importance of this support was demonstrated during the recently concluded Africa
Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2026 exhibition where SAAF aircrafts formed a central part of
the aerial displays. A strong line-up comprised Hawks, Gripens, C-130 and Rooivalk attack
helicopter demonstrated the capability and professionalism of SAAF, providing a visible
demonstration of the importance of maintaining and sustaining the air force’s operational
equipment.
Reflecting on this milestone, Advocate Solomzi Mbada, CEO – Armscor said the organisation
is committed to ensuring that the SAAF receives the support it requires to fulfil its mandate.
“For Armscor, keeping the South African Air Force in the skies is not simply about maintaining
aircraft. It is about sustaining national capability. We are very much aware that every aircraft
that is returned to service contributes to the ability of the SAAF to execute its constitutional
mandate and to safeguard our country’s airspace and national interests,” he said.
Armscor’s role extends beyond the procurement of equipment. As the acquisition agency for
the Department of Defence and other organs of state, the organisation provides the armed
forces with state-of-the-art defence matériel, delivering innovative defence solutions efficiently
and effectively. The organisation’s aeronautical capabilities include technical and programme
management support for airborne platforms, including fighter aircraft, transport aircraft and
helicopters.
According to Adv. Mbada the current intervention must be viewed as part of a broader
commitment to rebuilding sustainable aircraft availability. “This is a turning point in our efforts
to revitalise and strengthen the sustainability of the SAAF’s prime mission equipment. We are
determined to move beyond short-term interventions and build a support environment that
enables predictable maintenance, timely repairs and improved aircraft availability,”
emphasised Adv. Mbada.
Armscor commits to continue working closely with the SAAF and appointed service providers
to monitor the execution of maintenance programmes, facilitate the delivery of required
services and support the recovery and sustainment of critical capabilities. The organisation
also views the maintenance and sustainment environment as an opportunity to strengthen the
South African defence industrial base by leveraging local technical expertise, developing
industrial capability and creating opportunities for South African companies to participate in
defence support programmes.
“Keeping the SAAF in the skies requires a whole ecosystem of capability. It requires skilled
people, responsive industry, effective acquisition processes, reliable supply chains, funding,
technology and strong partnerships. Armscor has a responsibility to bring these elements
together and ensure that the support provided translates into real operational capability,”
concluded Adv. Mbada.