By Defence Circle/SAAF – Images :Flight Sergeant Mohau Rasekoai
The South African Air Force (SAAF) has brought together personnel and aircraft from multiple establishments for the Dragon Peaks Park Mountain Deployment 2026, a combined training exercise aimed at enhancing operational readiness, strengthening inter-unit cooperation and developing specialised aviation skills in challenging mountainous terrain.
Located in the Drakensberg Mountains of KwaZulu-Natal, Dragon Peaks Park provides a demanding training environment for aircrew to practise the techniques required to operate safely and effectively in high-altitude and mountainous conditions. The deployment is conducted under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Zanele Vayeke and brings together a diverse range of aviation capabilities alongside specialised medical personnel.
Participating units include 87 Helicopter Flying School and 16 Squadron from Air Force Base Bloemspruit, 19 Squadron from Air Force Base Hoedspruit, 15 Squadron Charlie Flight from Air Force Station Port Elizabeth and 2 Squadron from Air Force Base Makhado. The Special Operations Medical Unit from 7 Medical Battalion Group is also participating, with the Mountain Club of South Africa contributing its expertise in mountain search and rescue operations.
A key highlight of this year’s deployment is the return of the Rooivalk attack helicopter to the Dragon Peaks training environment after several years. The participation of 16 Squadron adds an important dimension to the deployment, while the expanded contingent underscores the value of bringing together different aviation disciplines and operational specialists to strengthen the South African Air Force’s collective capabilities.
The training programme covers a broad range of specialised aviation activities, including combat search and rescue, hoisting operations, cargo slinging, rappelling, fast roping and slope landings. Aircrew are also conducting high-altitude mountain flying, Bambi bucket operations and battle and close-formation flying.
These activities provide opportunities for pilots and aircrew to refine their technical skills while developing precision, situational awareness and effective crew coordination. Operating in mountainous terrain presents unique challenges, making practical training essential for understanding environmental conditions and improving the ability to respond to complex operational scenarios.
The deployment also incorporates specialised training for A109, BK117 and Oryx pilots and flight engineers, supported by practical exercises involving the Special Operations Medical Unit. This integrated approach strengthens cooperation between aviation crews and medical specialists, particularly in scenarios where rapid response, casualty evacuation and coordinated support are essential.
The involvement of the Mountain Club of South Africa further reinforces the importance of collaboration between military aviation personnel and organisations with specialist mountain expertise. Such cooperation supports the development of skills relevant to search and rescue operations in difficult-to-access areas.
Beyond the flying programme, Dragon Peaks Park provides an opportunity for personnel from different squadrons, occupational groups and Air Force establishments to exchange knowledge and gain a better understanding of one another’s operational responsibilities. Social engagements also contribute to building professional relationships, strengthening morale and fostering camaraderie among participating members.
The Dragon Peaks Park Mountain Deployment 2026 demonstrates the importance of realistic, multi-unit training in preparing personnel for demanding operational environments. By combining different aircraft types, aviation specialities and medical capabilities, the South African Air Force continues to develop the skills and cooperation required to support a broad range of missions.
Against the challenging backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains, the deployment represents more than a specialised aviation exercise. It is a demonstration of the value of teamwork, shared expertise and a united approach to maintaining operational readiness across the South African Air Force.