View source for South African National Defence Force

{{Short description|Military of South Africa}}
{{Distinguish|text = the former South African military, the [[South African Defence Force]] (1957–1994)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2021}}
{{Use South African English|date=October 2012}}
{{Infobox national military
| name = South African National Defence Force
| native_name = {{collapsible list
  |titlestyle = background:transparent;text-align:left;padding-left:2.5em;font-size:85%;<!--size of [show]/[hide] link-->
  |liststyle = text-align:center;white-space:nowrap;
  | title = {{center|10 other official names:}}
  | {{native name|af|{{small|Suid-Afrikaanse Nasionale Weermag}}|fontsize=68%}}
  | {{native name|nr|{{small|IButho leSewula Afrika lezokuVikela leliZweloke}}|fontsize=68%}}
  | {{native name|xh|{{small|UMkhosi woKhuselo weSizwe waseMzantsi Afrika}}|fontsize=68%}}
  | {{native name|zu|{{small|UMbutho Wezokuvikela WaseNingizimu Afrika}}|fontsize=68%}}
  | {{native name|ss|{{small|Umbutfo Wetekuvikela Wavelonkhe waseNingizimu Afrika}}|fontsize=68%}}
  | {{native name|nso|{{small|Sešole sa Tšhireletšo sa Bosetšhaba sa Afrika Borwa}}|fontsize=68%}}
  | {{native name|st|{{small|Lebotho la Naha la Tshireletso la Aforika Borwa}}|fontsize=68%}}
  | {{native name|tn|{{small|Sesole sa Tshireletso ya Naga ya Aforika Borwa}}|fontsize=68%}}
  | {{native name|ts|{{small|Vutho ra Rixaka ra Vusirheleli ra Afrika-Dzonga}}|fontsize=68%}}
  | {{native name|ve|{{small|Tshiimiswa tsha Mmbi ya Vhupileli ya Afurika Tshipembe}}|fontsize=68%}}
 }}
| image = SANDF emblem.svg
| alt = 
| caption = Emblem of the SANDF
| image2 = Flag of the South African National Defence Force.svg
| alt2 = 
| caption2 = Flag of the SANDF
| motto = For the brave, for the proud
| founded = 1 July 1912<br />({{Age in years and days|1912|7|1}})<br />(''as [[Union Defence Force (South Africa)|Union Defence Force]]'')
| current_form = {{Start date and age|1994}}
| disbanded = 
| branches = {{army|South Africa}}<br>{{navy|South Africa}}<br>{{air force|South Africa}}<br>{{flagicon image|Infobox Flag of the South African Military Health Service.svg}} [[South African Military Health Service]]
| headquarters = [[Pretoria]], [[Gauteng]], South Africa
| flying_hours = 
| website = {{URL|http://www.dod.mil.za/|dod.mil.za}}
<!-- Leadership -->| commander-in-chief = [[President of South Africa|President]] [[Cyril Ramaphosa]]
| commander-in-chief_title = [[Commander-in-chief]]
| chief minister = 
| chief minister_title = 
| minister = [[Angie Motshekga]]
| minister_title = [[Minister of Defence and Military Veterans]]
| commander = [[General officer|General]] [[Rudzani Maphwanya]]
| commander_title = [[Chief of the South African National Defence Force|Chief of the SANDF]]
<!-- Manpower -->| age = 18{{ndash}}49
| conscription = No
| manpower_data = 2005
| manpower_age = 18{{ndash}}49
| available = 10,354,769
| available_f = 10,626,550
| fit = 4,927,757
| fit_f = 4,609,071
| reaching = 512,407
| reaching_f = 506,078
| active = 71,235 (2021/22)<ref name="Numbers2021">{{Cite web |last=Helfrich |first=Kim |date=2021-10-25 |title=SANDF by the numbers |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/featured/sandf-by-the-numbers-2/ |access-date=2023-05-05 |website=defenceWeb |language=en-ZA}}</ref><ref name="DODAnnual2021-22">{{cite book|url=https://nationalgovernment.co.za/department_annual/408/2022-department-of-defence-(dod)-annual-report.pdf|author=Department of Defence|title=Department of Defence Annual Report FY 2021/22|access-date=5 May 2023}}</ref>{{rp|108}}
| ranked = 
| reserve = 29,350 (2020/2021)<ref name="DWSANDF">{{cite web |url=http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=29273:south-africa&catid=119:african-militaries&Itemid=255 |title=South Africa: South African National Defence Force |publisher=DefenceWeb |date=1 February 2013 |access-date=21 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141021101120/http://www.defenceweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=29273:south-africa&catid=119:african-militaries&Itemid=255 |archive-date=21 October 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| deployed = <!-- Financial -->
| amount = US$3.30 billion <small>(2025/26)</small><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/editors-pick/defence-budget-remains-stagnant-despite-r5-billion-allocation-for-drc-deployment/ |title=Defence budget remains stagnant despite R5 billion allocation for DRC deployment }}</ref>
| percent_GDP = 0.8% (2025)
<!-- Industrial -->| domestic_suppliers = {{Plainlist|
* [[Denel]]
* [[Paramount Group]]
* [[Milkor]]
* [[Reutech Radar Systems]]
}}
| foreign_suppliers = {{Plainlist|
* {{flag|United Kingdom}}
* {{flag|United States}}
* {{flag|Germany}}
* {{flag|Sweden}}
* {{flag|France}}
* {{flag|Italy}}
* {{flag|Japan}}
}}
| imports = 
| exports = <!-- Related articles -->
| history = {{Plainlist|
* [[Military history of South Africa]] 
* [[List of wars involving South Africa]]
}}
| ranks = [[South African military ranks]]
}}

The '''South African National Defence Force''' ('''SANDF''') comprises the [[Military|armed force]]s of [[South Africa]]. The Chief of the SANDF is appointed by the [[President of South Africa]] from one of the [[Military branch|armed service]]s. They are in turn accountable to the [[Minister of Defence and Military Veterans]] of the [[Department of Defence (South Africa)|Defence Department]].

The military as it exists today was created in 1994,<ref name="constitution-1993-224">{{cite web |url=http://www.info.gov.za/documents/constitution/93cons.htm#SECTION224 |title=Constitution of the Republic of South Africa Act 200 of 1993 (Section 224) |access-date=2008-06-23 |year=1993 |publisher=South African Government |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080612100516/http://www.info.gov.za/documents/constitution/93cons.htm#SECTION224 |archive-date=12 June 2008 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.issafrica.org/Pubs/ASR/6No2/VanStade.html |title=Rationalisation in the SANDF: The Next Challenge |access-date=2008-06-23 |year=1997 |author=L B van Stade |publisher=Institute for Security Studies |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160316204323/https://issafrica.org/pubs/asr/6no2/vanstade.html |archive-date=16 March 2016 }}</ref> following South Africa's first nonracial election in April of that year and the adoption of a new constitution. It replaced the [[South African Defence Force]] and also integrated [[uMkhonto we Sizwe]] (MK), and the [[Azanian People's Liberation Army]] (APLA) guerilla forces.

==History==
===Integration process===
{{See also|National Peacekeeping Force}}
In 1994, the SANDF took over the personnel and equipment from the [[South African Defence Force|SADF]] and integrated forces from the former [[Bantustan]] homelands forces,<ref>{{cite web|last1=Wessels|first1=André|title=The South African National Defence Force, 1994–2009: A Historical Perspective |url= http://humanities.ufs.ac.za/dl/userfiles/Documents/00001/1093_eng.pdf |website=humanities.ufs.ac.za/ |publisher=University of the Free State |access-date=21 October 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130801082203/http://humanities.ufs.ac.za/dl/userfiles/Documents/00001/1093_eng.pdf |archive-date=1 August 2013}}</ref>{{rp|5}} as well as personnel from the former guerrilla forces of some of the political parties involved in South Africa, such as the [[African National Congress]]'s [[Umkhonto we Sizwe]], the [[Pan Africanist Congress]]'s [[Azanian People's Liberation Army]] and the Self-Protection Units of the [[Inkatha Freedom Party]] (IFP). The [[Azanian People's Organisation]]'s AZANLA was invited but refused to be integrated and to this day remains the only guerrilla force not integrated into the current force.<ref name="constitution-1993-224" />

As of 2004, the integration process was considered complete, with the retention of personnel, structure, and equipment from the SADF. However, due to integration problems, financial constraints, and other issues, the SANDF faced capability constraints.{{citation needed|date=November 2023}}

The [[Commando System (South Africa)|South African Commando System]] was a civil militia active until 2008, based upon local units from the size of company to battalion.<ref name="Reflections">{{cite book |title=Reflections on War – Preparedness and Consequences|last1=Potgieter |first1=Thean | last2=Liebenberg |first2=Ian |date=October 2012 |orig-year=2012 |location=Stellenbosch |publisher=[[Sun Media Stellenbosch]]|isbn=978-1-920338-84-8}}</ref> In its final years its role was to support the [[South African Police Service]] during internal operations. During such deployments the units came under SAPS control.

===1999 re-armament===
{{main|South African Arms Deal}}
In 1999, a R30 billion (US$4.8 billion) [[South African Arms Deal|purchase of weaponry]] by the [[African National Congress|South African Government]] was finalised, which has been subject to allegations of corruption.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.ifp.org.za/Newsletters/071122wn.htm |title=Mangosuthu Buthelezi's Weekly Newsletter to the Nation |date=22 November 2007 |publisher= [[Inkatha Freedom Party]] |work= Ifp.org.za |access-date=2008-11-13 |first=Mangosuthu |last=Buthelezi |author-link=Mangosuthu Buthelezi |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081203170352/http://www.ifp.org.za/Newsletters/071122wn.htm |archive-date=3 December 2008 }}</ref><ref name=rotten>[https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2007/jan/10/somethingisrotten Bright hopes betrayed] {{Webarchive|url= https://web.archive.org/web/20160303200249/http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2007/jan/10/somethingisrotten |date=3 March 2016 }} Mail & Guardian</ref> The [[South African Department of Defence]]'s Strategic Defence Acquisition purchased [[frigate]]s, [[submarine]]s, light utility [[helicopter]]s, [[lead-in fighter trainer]] and [[multirole combat aircraft]].<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Neethling |first1=Theo |title=Military spending, socio-economic challenges and foreign policy demands: Appraising South Africa's predicament |journal=African Security Review |date=22 July 2010|volume=15|issue=4|pages=57–78|doi=10.1080/10246029.2006.9627622|s2cid=154830936|issn=2154-0128}}</ref>

===Decline===
Systemic public-sector corruption, [[The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture|State capture]], (2011/12 to 2017) had a debilitating effect on [[Denel]] and consequently the country's defence capability.<ref name="cor1">{{cite news |last1=Cornelissen |first1=Christel |title=Net een uit vier lugmagvliegtuie 'diensbaar' |url=https://maroelamedia.co.za/nuus/sa-nuus/net-een-uit-vier-lugmagvliegtuie-diensbaar/ |access-date=18 February 2022 |agency=Maroela Media |publisher=maroela.co.za |date=18 February 2022}}</ref><ref name="bt1">{{cite news |last1=Staff Writer |title=Only a fraction of South Africa's airforce is operational right now |url= https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/559636/only-a-fraction-of-south-africas-airforce-is-operational-right-now/ |access-date=20 February 2022 |agency=BusinessTech |publisher=businesstech.co.za |date=17 February 2022}}</ref><ref name="gib1">{{cite news |last1=Gibson |first1=Erika |title=The defence force is seriously wounded, and state capture of Denel played a big role |url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/sunday-times/opinion-and-analysis/opinion/2022-02-06-the-defence-force-is-seriously-wounded-and-state-capture-of-denel-played-a-big-role/ |access-date=2 March 2022 |agency=TimesLive |publisher=timeslive.co.za |date=6 February 2022}}</ref> In 2014 some 62% of the SANDF's facilities and housing were deemed to be in unacceptable condition, of which 4% were hazardous, another 2% fit to be demolished, and some occupied by squatters. This contributed to low soldier morale and poor discipline.<ref name="def1">{{cite news |last1=defenceWeb |title=Sixty-two percent of SANDF facilities in unacceptable condition |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/sa-defence/sa-defence-sa-defence/sixty-two-percent-of-sandf-facilities-in-unacceptable-condition/ |access-date=2 March 2022 |publisher=defenceweb.co.za |date=7 March 2014}}</ref> Equipment became largely obsolete due to inadequate maintenance, while renewal stalled with devastating effects on the defence industry. According to the [[Department of Defence (South Africa)|Department of Defence]]'s 2014 Defence Review, the SANDF was "in a critical state of decline".<ref>{{cite web |url= https://medium.com/war-is-boring/a63c5d28220f |title=South Africa's Military Is Falling Apart |last1=Dörrie |first1=Peter |date=9 April 2014 |website=medium.com |publisher=War is Boring |access-date=9 April 2014 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140413130313/https://medium.com/war-is-boring/a63c5d28220f |archive-date=13 April 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> A series of cuts to its capital and operating budgets compromised several capabilities.<ref name="sw1">{{cite news |last1= Staff writer |title=South Africa's army is out of money – here's how bad things are |url= https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/452760/south-africas-army-is-out-of-money-heres-how-bad-things-are/ |access-date=2 December 2020 |agency=Business Tech |publisher=businesstech.co.za |date=27 November 2020}}</ref> 

In 2017 and 2021 respectively, 83<ref name="wal1">{{cite web |title=Wallmannsthal fire wreaks havoc on stored military vehicles |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/sa-defence/sa-defence-sa-defence/wallmannsthal-fire-wreaks-havoc-on-stored-military-vehicles/ |website=defenceWeb |publisher=defenceweb.co.za |access-date=25 March 2022 |date=18 September 2017}}</ref> and some 200 to 500 out-of-service military vehicles were destroyed in fires at the Wallmansthal vehicle depot,<ref name="han2">{{cite news |last1=Hancke |first1=Hendrik |last2=Michaels |first2=Ross |title=500 army vehicles destroyed in fire |url=https://www.news24.com/citypress/news/500-army-vehicles-destroyed-in-fire-20210919 |access-date=23 March 2022 |agency=City Press |publisher=news24.com |date=19 September 2021}}</ref> and a spokesperson was not available to liaise with the press.<ref name="fok1">{{cite news |last1=Fokazi |first1=Sipokazi |title=Military equipment, vehicles destroyed as fire tears through army base |url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2021-09-17-military-equipment-vehicles-destroyed-as-fire-tears-through-army-base/ |access-date=25 March 2022 |agency=TimesLive |publisher=timeslive.co.za |date=17 September 2021}}</ref> Notwithstanding, it was reported to [[Parliament of South Africa|parliament]] in 2022, that technical skills gained from personnel of the [[Cuban Revolutionary Armed Forces|Cuban RAF]] facilitated the preservation and maintenance of over 600,000 infantry weapons.<ref name="def3">{{cite web |title=Cubans deliver simulators, skills and weapons maintenance Parliament hears |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/featured/cubans-deliver-simulators-skills-and-weapons-maintenance-parliament-hears/ |website=defenceweb.co.za |publisher=defenceWeb |access-date=25 March 2022 |date=18 March 2022}}</ref> Their mechanical and vehicular skills allowed for the inspection, repair, refurbishment and/or deactivation of vehicles in the special forces and the four arms of service fleets, besides the implementation of stock control and technical support measures, and the rehabilitation of army workshops and work stations.

After submissions to parliament by [[Armscor (South Africa)|Armscor]], earlier in 2022, a spokesman for the [[Parliamentary opposition|official opposition]], the [[Democratic Alliance (South Africa)|DA]], stated that the country's defence capability had been weakened to the extent that it was unprepared for a serious security challenge.<ref name="cor1"/> The [[South African Navy|Navy]] and [[South African Air Force|Air Force]] were highlighted as easy targets, as only one of the four [[frigate]]s were serviceable, and none of the [[submarine]]s, while only 46 of 217 [[fixed-wing aircraft]] were serviceable (with all [[Air transports of heads of state and government|VIP]] aircraft grounded<ref name="gib2">{{cite news |last1=Gibson |first1=Erika |title=Ramaphosa charters SAA plane as VIP fleet grounded |url=https://www.businesslive.co.za/bd/national/2022-08-19-ramaphosa-charters-saa-plane-as-vip-fleet-grounded/ |access-date=22 August 2022 |work=National |agency=Business Day |publisher=businesslive.co.za |date=19 August 2022}}</ref>), and only 27 of 87 [[helicopter]]s. Budget and hardware constraints also compromised flight training and exercises, besides the retention of experienced pilots and personnel.<ref name="bt1"/> The [[Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula|defence minister]]'s appointment of an Air Force chief, [[Wiseman Mbambo]], who cannot fly a plane and doesn't have a pilot's licence was also criticized.<ref name="nka1">{{cite news |last1=Nkanjeni |first1= Unathi |title= Bantu Holomisa slams Mapisa-Nqakula for appointment of air force chief 'who can't fly a plane' |url= https://www.timeslive.co.za/politics/2022-02-07-bantu-holomisa-slams-mapisa-nqakula-for-appointment-of-air-force-chief-who-cant-fly-a-plane/ |access-date= 2 March 2022 |agency=TimesLive |publisher= timeslive.co.za |date=7 February 2022}}</ref> The SANDF had only 14 infantry battalions consisting of 12,000 soldiers in aggregate, of which five were deployed in peacekeeping and border patrol, leaving only nine to serve as home or rapid response units.<ref name="def2">{{cite web |title=Salaries still the biggest item in the defence budget |url= https://www.defenceweb.co.za/featured/salaries-still-the-biggest-item-in-the-defence-budget/ |website= defenceWeb |publisher= defenceweb.co.za |access-date=23 March 2022 |date=24 February 2022}}</ref> 

In February 2022 the power supply to its Navy headquarters in [[Pretoria]] was disconnected when its [[City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality|municipal]] taxes were in arrears to the amount of R3.2&nbsp;million.<ref name="pre1">{{cite news |title=Krag by SANW se vloothoofkwartier gesny weens wanbetaling |url=https://www.pretoriafm.co.za/krag-by-sanw-se-vloothoofkwartier-gesny-weens-wanbetaling/ |access-date=18 February 2022 |agency=PretoriaFM |publisher=pretoriafm.co.za |date=9 February 2022}}</ref> During the same month [[South African National Defence Union|Sandu]] threatened legal action if the dilapidated Air Force headquarters building in Pretoria were not repaired to facilitate acceptable working conditions.<ref name="pat1">{{cite news |last1=Patrick |first1=Alex |title=Defence union threatens action over 'unacceptable' conditions at air force HQ |url=https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/south-africa/2022-02-23-defence-union-threatens-action-over-unacceptable-conditions-at-air-force-hq/ |access-date=2 March 2022 |agency=TimesLive |publisher= timeslive.co.za |date=23 February 2022}}</ref> In March 2022 the SANDF and Navy were locked out of several office buildings in Pretoria due to rent defaults by the [[Department of Public Works and Infrastructure|Department of Public Works]].<ref name="han1">{{cite news |last1=Hancke |first1=Hendrik |title=Die staat skuld my miljoene aan huur: Polisie, vloot sit op straat na eienaar staatsgeboue in Pretoria sluit |agency=Rapport |publisher=Netwerk24 |date=13 March 2022}}</ref> 63% of the 2022/23 defence budget was allocated to employee compensation.<ref name="def2"/>

In 2022 the SANDF was involved in multiple corruption scandals totaling R2 billion; one of which involved 56 SANDF personnel two of whom were generals all of whom were suspended.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=2022-03-03 |title=R2 billion plus of DoD fraud, corruption and irregular expenditure under the spotlight |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/featured/r2-billion-plus-of-dod-fraud-corruption-and-irregular-expenditure-under-the-spotlight/ |access-date=2022-05-31 |website=defenceWeb |language=en-ZA}}</ref> An additional 13 SANDF personal from the Logistics, Joint Operations and Special Forces divisions were convicted for corruption in another incident.<ref name=":0" />

=== Domestic operations ===
[[File:Refueling_before_taking_off_for_the_game_census.jpg|right|thumb|A SANDF helicopter being refuelled during the annual game census]]
{{as of|2012}}, the SANDF was involved in several internal operations, including:<ref name="2012Deploy">{{cite web | url=http://www.dod.mil.za/news/2012/11/cjops.htm | title=C J OPS Briefs Media on Deployments | access-date=22 January 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121219042305/http://www.dod.mil.za/news/2012/11/cjops.htm | archive-date=19 December 2012 | url-status=live }}</ref>
* Safeguarding the border (Operation CORONA)
* Disaster relief and assistance (Operation CHARIOT) 
* Safety and security (Operation PROSPER)
* Ridding the country of illegal weapons, drug dens, prostitution rings and other illegal activities (Operation FIELA)

In 2021, SANDF forces were deployed in response to the [[2021 South African unrest|civil unrest]] following the jailing on corruption charges of former president [[Jacob Zuma]]. By 14 July, over 25,000 troops had been deployed, the largest single deployment of the South African National Defence Force since 1994.<ref name="SANDFdeployment-20210714">{{cite web |last1=Mkhwanazi |first1=Siyabonga |title=Mapisa-Nqakula: We have deployed 25 000 soldiers |url=https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/mapisa-nqakula-we-have-deployed-25-000-soldiers-06107ed0-0db0-4ad5-bba6-80abed44f655 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210714172503/https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/mapisa-nqakula-we-have-deployed-25-000-soldiers-06107ed0-0db0-4ad5-bba6-80abed44f655 |archive-date=14 July 2021 |access-date=15 July 2021 |website=iol}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=DARREN OLIVIER: Largest ever SANDF deployment|url=https://www.businesslive.co.za/bd/opinion/2021-08-23-largest-ever-sandf-deployment/|access-date=2021-10-25|website=BusinessLIVE|language=en-ZA}}</ref>

===International operations===
[[File:South African soldiers board a C-130 Hercules aircraft for a practice jump at Air Force Base Bloemspruit in Bloemfontein, South Africa, July 23, 2013, in preparation for exercise Shared Accord 2013 130723-A-FP002-005.jpg|thumb|right|180px|SANDF paratroops]]
The SANDF partakes in [[UN peacekeeping missions]], mostly on the African continent. As part of the [[Southern African Development Community|SADC]] standby force, it partakes in peace missions in the [[Democratic Republic of the Congo|DRC]] and northern [[Mozambique]].<ref name="def2"/> It also provides foreign election security when needed.

==Organisation and structure==
Overall command is vested in an officer-designated Chief of the SANDF (CSANDF). Appointed from any of the Arms of Service, they are the only person in the SANDF at the rank of General or Admiral, and are accountable to the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, who heads the [[Department of Defence (South Africa)|Department of Defence]].

The structure of the SANDF is depicted below:<ref>{{Cite web |title=Department of Defence Annual Report 2018/19 |url=https://static.pmg.org.za/DOD_AR_201819WEB.pdf |access-date=28 September 2020 |website=Parliamentary Monitoring Group}}</ref><!--Does the DCC still exist?
The SANDF commander consults with members of several councils and committees, and chairs the Defence Command Council (DCC), which oversees the defence budget. On the DCC are the four service chiefs, the chief of the National Defence Force staff, the military inspector general, the chiefs of defence headquarters staff divisions, and other key defence officials. Headquarters responsibilities are allocated among six staff divisions—the Finance Division, the Intelligence Division, the Logistics Division, the Joint Operations Division, the Personnel Division, and the Planning Division.--><!--not sure where to put this&nbsp;— maybe move to DOD page?-->

[[File:SANDF_Organisation_Chart_2019-page-001.jpg|left|thumb|360x360px|SANDF Organisation Chart 2019]]
In 2010, a Defence Amendment Bill created a permanent National Defence Force Service Commission (NDFSC), a statutory advisory body that reports to the Minister of Defence and Military Veterans. Its primary mandate is to review and make recommendations on the conditions of service, remuneration, career progression, and general welfare of SANDF personnel, both in the Regular and Reserve components.

The Commission plays a key role in ensuring that the interests of military personnel are represented at the highest levels of government and that the SANDF maintains professional standards in line with constitutional and legislative requirements.

Overall command is vested in an officer-designated Chief of the SANDF (CSANDF). Appointed from any of the Arms of Service, they are the only person in the SANDF at the rank of General or Admiral, and are accountable to the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, who heads the [[Department of Defence (South Africa)|Department of Defence]].

The SANDF is structured into four main service branches:<ref name="act-42-2002">{{cite web |date=2003-02-12 |title=Defence Act 42 of 2002 |url=http://www.info.gov.za/gazette/acts/2002/a42-02.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080624211758/http://www.info.gov.za/gazette/acts/2002/a42-02.pdf |archive-date=2008-06-24 |access-date=2008-06-23 |publisher=South African Government |page=18}}</ref>

* [[South African Army]] – the landward defence component and the largest branch of the SANDF. The Army is organised into several divisions and formations, including the Infantry Formation, Armour Formation, Artillery Formation, Air Defence Artillery Formation, Engineer Formation, and Support Formation.
* [[South African Air Force]] – responsible for air operations, air defence, transport, and surveillance. The SAAF is organised into several commands, including Combat Aircraft Squadrons, Transport and Maritime Squadrons, Helicopter Squadrons, and the Air Command and Control Centre.
* [[South African Navy]] – provides maritime defence, sea transport, and the protection of South Africa's territorial waters. The Navy is structured around Fleet Command, headquartered at Simon’s Town, and includes Frigate, Submarine, Mine Countermeasures, and Support Squadrons. The Navy also maintains the Maritime Reaction Squadron, a versatile amphibious marine-type unit.
* [[South African Military Health Service]] – a separate branch responsible for medical support, field hospitals, health logistics, and healthcare for SANDF members and, in emergencies, for civilians. It operates military hospitals, medical battalions, and specialist health institutes.

In addition to these four services, the [[South African Special Forces|South African Special Forces Brigade]] operates as an independent formation under the direct command of the Chief of the SANDF. The Brigade is tasked with strategic reconnaissance, unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, and specialised operations, and is regarded as an elite component of the SANDF.

Supporting the services are additional components:

* [[Defence Intelligence Division (SANDF)|Defence Intelligence Division]] – provides military intelligence, counterintelligence, and strategic assessments.
* [[Joint Operations Division]] – responsible for planning, coordinating, and commanding operational deployments of the SANDF both domestically and internationally, including peace support missions.
* Logistics Division – manages procurement, supply chains, maintenance, and the sustainment of equipment and infrastructure.
* Training Command – oversees basic training, specialist schools, military academies, and professional development programmes.

The SANDF also relies on the Reserve Force, which supplements the Regular Force during operations. The Reserves provide trained personnel, specialist skills, and additional capacity for peacekeeping, border safeguarding, and disaster relief operations.

===Publications and access to records===
The SANDF [http://www.dod.mil.za/documents/documents.htm  publishes (or provides links)] to documents describing its strategy, plans, performance, white papers and related government acts. Under the [[Promotion of Access to Information Act, 2000|Promotion of Access to Information Act 2000 (PAIA)]], the SANDF also provides [http://www.dod.mil.za/pai/paia.htm  access to] current and historical information the SANDF holds and provides a manual<ref name="PAIAManual">{{cite web |url= http://www.dod.mil.za/pai/Manuals/20160307%20DOD%20PAI%20Manual%20English.pdf |title=Promotion of Access to Information (PAI) Manual |date=2016-03-07 |publisher=South African Government Department of Defence |access-date=5 May 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180505205741/http://www.dod.mil.za/pai/Manuals/20160307%20DOD%20PAI%20Manual%20English.pdf |archive-date=5 May 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref> with procedures for obtaining access. Some categories of records are "automatically available" that are "available without a person having to request access in terms of the PAIA. These records can be accessed at the Department of Defence Archives and include operational records of the [[World War I|1st World War]], [[World War II|2nd World War]], [[Korean War]], and establishment of the [[Union Defence Force (South Africa)|Union Defence Force 1912]].

== Service branches ==

=== South African Army ===
{{Main|South African Army}}
[[File:Roodewal Weapons Range - (8724689015).jpg|thumb|Members of the [[South African Army Infantry Formation|South African Army's Infantry Formation]] dedicated [[Air assault|air assault infantry]] unit pose in front of an Air Force [[Atlas Oryx|Oryx]] helicopter]]
The [[South African Army]] is the landward branch of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), responsible for [[Land warfare|ground operations]], border protection, and support to civil authorities. It consists of around 40,000 active personnel and over 12,000 reservists, organised into a structure of combat, combat support, and service support formations. The Army's primary missions include national defence, regional peacekeeping, disaster relief, and internal security assistance.<ref>{{Cite news |last=defenceWeb |date=2019-01-07 |title=SANDF personnel strength - by the numbers - defenceWeb |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/sa-defence/sa-defence-sa-defence/sandf-personnel-strength-by-the-numbers/ |access-date=2025-07-18 |work=defenceWeb |language=en-US}}</ref>

The Army's core combat power lies in its [[South African Army Infantry Formation|infantry formations]], which operate across a wide range of environments on the African continent. [[Light infantry]] battalions provide agile, mobile forces trained for skirmishes in bush, savannah, and urban terrain. [[Motorized infantry|Motorised infantry]] battalions—the largest component of the force—historically relied on trucks for transport; since the 2000s they have transitioned to [[Mine-resistant ambush protected vehicle|mine-resistant]] [[Armoured personnel carrier|armoured personnel carriers]] (APCs/MRAPs) such as the ''[[Mamba APC|Mamba]]'' and ''[[Casspir]]'', which offer greater survivability during patrols and peacekeeping duties. [[Mechanized infantry|Mechanised infantry]] battalions employ the ''[[Ratel IFV|Ratel]]'' and ''[[Badger IFV|Badger]]'' [[Infantry fighting vehicle|infantry fighting vehicles]], together they operate alongside armour and artillery in [[Combined arms|combined-arms]] formations. Specialist formations include [[9 South African Infantry Battalion|Seaborne infantry]], which specialise in amphibious operations—providing the South African Army with a limited [[Marines|marine]]-type function, a capability uncommon in most armies as it is typically associated with Marine Corps. [[Airborne forces]] such as [[Paratrooper|Paratrooper infantry]] conduct parachute operations from tactical airlift aircraft, while [[Air assault|Air Assault infantry]] are trained for helicopter-borne operations in coordination with the South African Air Force.<ref>{{Cite web |title=home |url=http://www.army.mil.za/equipment/weaponsystems/armour/ratel_equipm.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140424135336/http://www.army.mil.za/equipment/weaponsystems/armour/ratel_equipm.htm |archive-date=2014-04-24 |access-date=2025-07-18 |website=www.army.mil.za}}</ref>
[[File:Rooikat_Mk1D.jpg|left|thumb|[[Rooikat]] combat reconnaissance vehicle of the [[South African Army Armour Formation]]]]
The [[South African Army Armour Formation|Armour Formation]] represents the Army's heavy strike element, fielding the ''[[Olifant (tank)|Olifant]]'' [[main battle tank]] and ''[[Rooikat]]'' [[Armoured reconnaissance|armoured reconnaissance vehicle]]. Together with mechanised infantry, they provide mobile, high-intensity combat capabilities suited for conventional operations. Supporting formations include the [[South African Army Artillery Formation|Artillery Formation]], which operates the ''[[G5 howitzer|G5 Leopard]]'' [[Field artillery|towed]] and ''[[G6 howitzer|G6 Rhino]]'' [[Self-propelled artillery|self-propelled howitzers]], complemented by the ''[[Bateleur FV2|Bateleur]]'' and ''[[Valkiri]]'' [[multiple rocket launcher]] systems that provide long-range saturation fire support. The [[South African Army Air Defence Artillery Formation|Air Defence Artillery Formation]] fields ''[[Oerlikon GDF]]'' radar-guided [[Anti-aircraft warfare|anti-aircraft autocannons]] and ''[[Starstreak]]'' [[Surface-to-air missile|surface-to-air missiles]], supported by a range of surveillance and targeting radar systems. In the near future, it is expected to incorporate the locally developed ''[[Umkhonto (missile)|Umkhonto]]'' surface-to-air missile defence system, currently under development.<ref name="defenceweb.co.za">{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Guy |date=2016-08-11 |title=SANDF projects |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/sa-defence/sa-defence-sa-defence/sandf-projects/ |access-date=2023-03-25 |website=defenceWeb |language=en-ZA}}</ref> 

The [[South African Army Engineer Formation|Engineer Formation]] provides combat engineering, mobility, demolitions, and field infrastructure support, while the [[South African Army Support Formation|Support Formation]] ensures logistics, maintenance, and supply services across all operational theatres. Operational control is exercised through [[43 South African Brigade]], a deployable headquarters for external operations and peace support missions. The Army regularly contributes to regional stability under Operation Corona and various United Nations and African Union missions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Mozambique.

=== South African Air Force ===
{{Main|South African Air Force}}

[[File:2008jan17_arniston_otb_085.jpg|thumb|A [[Saab JAS 39 Gripen|JAS 39 Gripen]] multirole fighter jet of the South African Air Force stationed at [[Air Force Base Overberg]] in the [[Western Cape]]]]
The [[South African Air Force]] (SAAF) is the [[aerial warfare]] branch of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), tasked with securing national airspace, supporting land and naval operations, and providing airlift, reconnaissance, and humanitarian assistance. Established in 1920, it is the second-oldest air force in the world. Today, it comprises around 12,800 active personnel and a reserve of just over 1,000, operating from nine official air force bases and several other air force stations.<ref name="defenceWeb">{{Cite web |date=2019-01-07 |title=SANDF personnel strength - by the numbers |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/sa-defence/sa-defence-sa-defence/sandf-personnel-strength-by-the-numbers/ |access-date=2025-07-18 |website=defenceWeb |language=en-ZA}}</ref> The most strategically important bases are:

* [[Air Force Base Waterkloof|AFB Waterkloof]] (Airlift Command and strategic transport hub);
* [[Air Force Base Makhado|AFB Makhado]] (Northern fighter base, home to the Gripen and Hawk fleet);
* [[Air Force Base Ysterplaat|AFB Ysterplaat]] (Naval operations, maritime patrol, and helicopter units);
* [[Air Force Base Bloemspruit|AFB Bloemspruit]] (Helicopter operations, home to the Rooivalk attack helicopter);
* [[Air Force Base Hoedspruit|AFB Hoedspruit]] (Reconnaissance and helicopter operations in the northeast);
* [[Air Force Base Langebaanweg|AFB Langebaanweg]] (Primary flight training school for pilots);
* [[Air Force Base Overberg|AFB Overberg]] (Flight testing and development centre);
* [[Air Force Base Swartkop|AFB Swartkop]] (Oldest air base, storage facility, and museum for retired aircraft);
* [[Air Force Base Durban|AFB Durban]] (Search and rescue and maritime patrol helicopter operations);

The SAAF maintains a compact yet modern combat fleet. Its primary [[Air supremacy|air superiority]] and [[Multirole combat aircraft|multirole]] capability is provided by 26 [[Saab JAS 39 Gripen|''JAS 39 Gripen'']] fighters, supported by 24 [[BAE Systems Hawk|''BAE Hawk'']] Mk.120's, which serve as both [[Lead-in fighter trainer|lead-in trainers]] and [[Light attack aircraft|light strike aircraft]]. In the early 2000s, these replaced a much larger fleet of nearly 100 [[Dassault Mirage|''Dassault Mirage'']] and [[Atlas Cheetah|''Atlas Cheetah'']] multirole [[Interceptor aircraft|fighter-interceptors]], reflecting a strategic shift towards a smaller, technologically advanced force focused on readiness and regional stability.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The South African Air Force |url=https://www.saairforce.co.za/the-airforce/aircraft/68/cheetah-e |access-date=2025-07-18 |website=www.saairforce.co.za}}</ref>
[[File:SAAF Agusta A109 4001 (6929039335).jpg|left|thumb|A South African Air Force [[AgustaWestland AW109]] multi-role helicopter]]
[[Rotorcraft|Rotary-wing]] assets form a vital element of the SAAF, centred around the [[Denel Rooivalk|''AH-2 Rooivalk'']] attack helicopter, designed locally for close air support and reconnaissance, and the [[Atlas Oryx|''Atlas Oryx'']] utility helicopter, used for troop transport, medical evacuation, and logistical lift. These are complemented by the [[AgustaWestland AW109|''AgustaWestland AW109'']] and the [[MBB/Kawasaki BK 117|''MBB/Kawasaki BK 117'']] for utility and liaison roles. [[Trainer aircraft|Training aircraft]] include the [[Pilatus PC-7 Mk II Astra|''Pilatus PC-7 Mk II Astra'']], used as the basic trainer, and the Hawk Mk.120 for the advanced flight training role, ensuring a steady pipeline of combat-ready pilots.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The South African Air Force |url=https://www.saairforce.co.za/the-airforce/aircraft/68/cheetah-e |access-date=2025-07-18 |website=www.saairforce.co.za}}</ref>
[[File:Hercules_no._402.JPG|thumb|A South African Air Force [[C-130B Hercules|C-130BZ Hercules]] of [[28 Squadron SAAF|28 Squadron]] at [[Air Force Base Ysterplaat|AFB Ysterplaat]], Cape Town, parked alongside a [[United States Air Force]] C-130]]
[[Airlift|Strategic and tactical airlift]] capability is centred on the [[Lockheed C-130 Hercules|''C-130BZ Hercules'']], which forms the backbone of the SAAF's transport fleet. These are supported by ''[[CASA C-212 Aviocar|CASA C-212]]'s'' for light logistics, ''[[Cessna 208 Caravan]]'s'' for patrol and electronic warfare tasks, and ''[[C-47 Dakota|C-47TP Dakota]]'s'' for maritime patrol and surveillance duties.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The South African Air Force |url=https://www.saairforce.co.za/the-airforce/aircraft/68/cheetah-e |access-date=2025-07-18 |website=www.saairforce.co.za}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-05-23 |title=Department of Defence to announce partnership with Embraer - defenceWeb |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/sa-defence/sa-defence-sa-defence/department-of-defence-to-announce-partnership-with-embraer/ |access-date=2025-09-19 |language=en-ZA}}</ref> Plans for future airlift modernisation include evaluating newer-generation transport aircraft to eventually replace the ageing Hercules fleet.

Beyond manned aviation, the SAAF is expanding its [[Unmanned aerial vehicle|unmanned aerial systems]] (UAS) capability with the locally developed [[Milkor 380|''Milkor 380'']] unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), designed to enhance reconnaissance and precision-strike capacity.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Guy |date=2022-11-25 |title=First Milkor UAVs destined for South African use |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/aerospace/aerospace-aerospace/first-milkor-uavs-destined-for-south-african-use/ |access-date=2023-03-25 |website=defenceWeb |language=en-ZA}}</ref> Ground-based air defence and early warning functions are managed jointly with the South African Army, integrating radar systems, surveillance networks, and surface-to-air missile units to maintain situational awareness and national airspace security.

=== South African Navy ===
{{Main|South African Navy}}

[[File:SAS Spioenkop during Exercise IBSAMAR V.JPG|thumb|The South African Navy [[Valour-class frigate|Valour-class]] frigate [[SAS Spioenkop|SAS ''Spioenkop'']] (F147) underway during the multinational [[IBSAMAR|IBSAMAR V]] naval exercise with the [[Brazilian Navy|Brazilian]] and [[Indian Navy|Indian]] navies, highlighting international maritime cooperation and joint operational readiness]]
The [[South African Navy]] (SA Navy) is the [[naval warfare]] branch of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), responsible for defending the nation's territorial waters, safeguarding maritime trade routes, and supporting joint operations and peacekeeping missions along the African coastline. Headquartered at [[Naval Base Simon's Town]] near Cape Town, the Navy consists of roughly 7,000 active personnel and several hundred reservists, maintaining a balanced force of surface combatants, submarines, and support vessels.<ref name="defenceWeb2">{{Cite web |date=2019-01-07 |title=SANDF personnel strength - by the numbers |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/sa-defence/sa-defence-sa-defence/sandf-personnel-strength-by-the-numbers/ |access-date=2025-07-18 |website=defenceWeb |language=en-ZA}}</ref>

The Navy's [[surface combatant]] fleet is centred on four [[Valour-class frigate|''Valour''-class]] (MEKO A-200SAN) [[Stealth ship|stealth]] [[Guided Missile Frigate|guided-missile frigates]], which form the core of the SA Navy's [[Blue-water navy|blue-water]] capability. These multi-role surface combatants are equipped for [[Anti-surface warfare|anti-surface]], [[Anti-aircraft warfare|anti-air]], and [[anti-submarine warfare]]. Planned modernisation programmes include replacing the interim 76 mm naval gun with a larger-calibre main weapon, expanding the [[vertical launching system]] (VLS) to accommodate a greater missile payload, and integrating supersonic [[Anti-ship cruise missile|anti-ship cruise missiles]]—although these upgrades have been delayed due to budgetary constraints. Complementing the frigates are several [[River-class mine hunter|''River''-class]] mine countermeasure vessels, [[Warrior-class strike craft|''Warrior''-class]] offshore patrol vessels, and a new generation of [[Warrior-class inshore patrol vessel|Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessels]] (MMIPVs) introduced under Project Biro, tasked with coastal security and maritime law enforcement.
[[File:US_Navy_110210-N-5085J-517_The_Oliver_Hazard_Perry-class_frigate_USS_Stephen_W._Groves_(FFG_29)_participates_in_exercises_with_the_South_African_na.jpg|left|thumb|The South African Navy [[Heroine-class submarine|Heroine-class]] submarine [[SAS Charlotte Maxeke|SAS ''Charlotte Maxeke'']] (S102) alongside the [[United States Navy|U.S. Navy]] [[Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate|Oliver Hazard Perry-class]] frigate [[USS Stephen W. Groves|USS ''Stephen W. Groves'']] (FFG-29) during a joint naval exercise]]
The submarine arm operates three [[Heroine-class submarine|''Heroine''-class]] (Type 209/1400MOD) [[Diesel-electric submarine|diesel-electric]] [[Attack submarine|attack submarines]], commissioned between 2005 and 2008. These submarines are armed with [[Torpedo|torpedoes]] and have an optional anti-ship missile integration, providing the navy with a credible [[Underwater warfare|undersea warfare]] and deterrence capability in the Indian and South Atlantic Oceans. Historically, the SA Navy grew from a small coastal defence force into a regional navy with blue-water ambitions following the acquisition of its frigates and submarines in the early 2000s.

[[Naval aviation]] and support elements are operated jointly with the South African Air Force. The [[Super Lynx|Super Lynx 300]] Mk.64 naval helicopters are deployed aboard the Valour-class frigates for surface surveillance, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), and search and rescue missions. Fleet replenishment and logistical support are provided by the [[SAS Drakensberg|SAS ''Drakensberg'']], a [[Replenishment oiler|combat support vessel]] capable of extended deployments. The SA Navy also operates a growing hydrographic service, modernised through the new [[Hydrographic survey vessel|Hydrographic Survey Vessel]] SAS ''Nelson Mandela'', enhancing South Africa's charting and oceanographic capabilities.
[[File:South_African_soldiers_aboard_an_Indian_Navy_ship.jpg|thumb|South African Navy [[Maritime Reaction Squadron]] (MRS) [[Marine infantry|marine]] [[Marine infantry|infantry]] aboard an [[Indian Navy]] ship, demonstrating their rapid-deployment and amphibious capabilities]]
The Navy also maintains the [[Maritime Reaction Squadron]] (MRS), a versatile marine-like formation established in 2006 to conduct boarding operations, coastal patrols, and limited amphibious tasks in support of peacekeeping and humanitarian missions. The MRS effectively replaced the former [[South African Marine Corps]] (SAMC), which was disbanded in 1990 after plans to re-establish a dedicated marine corps were halted due to budget constraints. During the 2000s, the Navy explored ''Project Millennium'', a proposal to acquire a large [[amphibious assault ship]] capable of deploying marine forces and helicopters for regional operations. The project gained media attention at the time, with some reports erroneously describing the proposed vessel as a potential "[[aircraft carrier]]," though no such plan was ever formally pursued. Ultimately, the project was shelved due to financial limitations; however, a future [[Strategic sealift ships|strategic sealift]] capability remains noted in the Defence Review, suggesting the project could be revived in the future should the SANDF receive increased funding.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Project Millenium LPHD |url=https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rsa/sas-millenium.htm |access-date=2025-09-18 |website=www.globalsecurity.org}}</ref>

=== South African Military Health Service ===
{{Main|South African Military Health Service}}

[[File:Mfezi.jpg|thumb|South African Military Health Service [[Mfezi (ambulance)|Mfezi]] armoured ambulances on standby, ready to provide protected medical evacuation and emergency support in operational environments]]
The [[South African Military Health Service]] (SAMHS) is the dedicated [[Medical corps|medical branch]] of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), tasked with providing comprehensive healthcare to military personnel and their dependants during peace, wartime, and operational deployments. Established to ensure the medical readiness of the SANDF, it supports the Army, Air Force, and Navy through preventative care, frontline trauma management, specialised treatment, and rehabilitation. The service comprises around 10,000 active and reserve personnel, operating across a network of [[Military hospital|military hospitals]], field units, and support facilities nationwide.<ref>{{Cite web |last=defenceWeb |date=2014-11-11 |title=SANDF not meeting staffing targets |url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/sa-defence/sa-defence-sa-defence/sandf-not-meeting-staffing-targets/ |access-date=2025-07-18 |website=defenceWeb |language=en-ZA}}</ref>

The SAMHS operates deployable medical units capable of providing frontline trauma care, [[Field hospital|field hospitals]], and medical evacuation by both road and air. These units ensure that SANDF operations—whether combat, peacekeeping, or humanitarian relief—remain medically sustainable even in austere and hostile environments. Key assets include [[forward surgical teams]], [[Intensive care unit|mobile intensive care units]], and [[aeromedical evacuation]] capabilities using SANDF aircraft, such as the ''Atlas Oryx'' and ''AgustaWestland AW109'' helicopters.

In addition to traditional medical care, the SAMHS encompasses environmental health, veterinary services, and biological defence research. Its personnel are trained to manage [[Chemical warfare|chemical]], [[Biological warfare|biological]], [[Radiological warfare|radiological]], and [[Nuclear warfare|nuclear]] ([[CBRN defense|CBRN]]) threats, while supporting national crises. During the [[COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa|COVID-19 pandemic]], the SAMHS contributed to mass testing, vaccination campaigns, and the rapid establishment of emergency medical facilities.

Through its integrated network of hospitals, field units, and specialist teams, the SAMHS is essential to the SANDF's operational capability. It not only ensures the health and welfare of military personnel at home and abroad but also reinforces South Africa's ability to project humanitarian and peacekeeping missions across the African continent.

== Personnel ==
{{Pie chart
| thumb = right
| radius = 100
| caption = 
| footer = 31 March 2019, the demographics of service personnel<ref name="DOD201819" />{{rp|165}}
| label1 = [[Black people|Black]]
| value1 = 75
| label2 = [[White South Africans|White]]
| value2 = 11.4
| label3 = [[Asian South Africans|Indian]]
| value3 = 1.3
| label4 = [[Coloureds]]
| value4 = 12.3
}}
{{Pie chart
| thumb = right
| radius = 100
| caption = 
| footer = 31 March 2019, gender split in the SANDF<ref name="DOD201819" />{{rp|402}}
| label1 = Males
| value1 = 69.4
| label2 = Females
| value2 = 30.6
}}

On 31 March 2019, the demographics of service personnel were as follows:<ref name="DOD201819">{{Cite book |url=http://www.dod.mil.za/documents/annualreports/DOD%20Annual%20Report%20for%20FY2018-19%20(FINAL%20Web%20Layout).pdf |title=2018/19 Department of Defence Annual Report |publisher=South African Department of Defence |year=2019 |location=South Africa |pages=402}}</ref>{{rp|165}}

* 55,866 (75%) [[Black people|Black]]
* 8,479 (11.4%) [[White South Africans|White]]
* 981 (1.3%) [[Asian South Africans|Indian]]
* 9,162 (12.3%) [[Coloureds]]

The gender split in the SANDF as of 31 March 2019 is as follows:<ref name="DOD201819" />

* 51,684 men (69.4%)
* 22,824 women (30.6%)

The target for female recruits increased to 40% in 2010.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Transformation, Gender Equity and Empowerment in the South African Defence Force: Briefing by Department of Defence &#124; PMG |url=http://www.pmg.org.za/report/20110623-transformation-gender-equity-and-empowerment-south-african-defence-fo |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120918152005/http://www.pmg.org.za/report/20110623-transformation-gender-equity-and-empowerment-south-african-defence-fo |archive-date=18 September 2012 |access-date=13 June 2012}}</ref>

==Equipment==
{{Main|List of equipment of the South African Army|List of aircraft of the South African Air Force|List of active South African Navy ships}}

The South African National Defence Force operates a mixture of domestically produced and imported military equipment. A large proportion of its inventory is sourced from South Africa's [[Defence industry of South Africa|domestic defence industry]], while additional systems are procured mainly from European and American suppliers.

=== Defence industry ===
{{Main|Defence industry of South Africa}}

South Africa's defence industry originated in the late 1960s, expanding significantly after the United Nations imposed a [[United Nations Security Council Resolution 418|mandatory arms embargo]] on the country in 1963 in response to [[apartheid]]. The embargo, which remained in force until 1990, compelled South Africa to establish a self-sufficient and vertically integrated military-industrial base.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Arms Embargo against Apartheid South Africa on richardknight.com |url=http://richardknight.homestead.com/files/armsembargo.htm |access-date=2023-02-08 |website=richardknight.homestead.com}}</ref>

Today, the South African defence industry is regarded as the largest and most advanced in Africa and one of the most capable outside of the major Western and Asian powers. It encompasses both state-owned enterprises and private companies and is able to design and manufacture a wide range of systems, including utility and attack helicopters, armoured personnel carriers, main battle tanks, artillery, missile systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, fixed-wing aircraft, small arms, and naval vessels. The industry also exports to more than 100 countries worldwide, reflecting its significant role in the global arms market.<ref>{{Cite web |title=SOUTH AFRICA ARMAMENTS |url=https://www.cia.gov/readingroom/docs/SOUTH%20AFRICA%20%20ARMAMENTS%20I%5B15792688%5D.pdf |website=www.cia.gov}}</ref>

Beyond conventional systems, the sector played a key role in South Africa's [[South Africa and weapons of mass destruction|apartheid-era strategic weapons programmes]], developing the [[RSA (missile)|RSA]] series of ballistic missiles in cooperation with [[Israel]] and contributing to nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons research. These programmes were dismantled in the early 1990s, but they remain an important part of the country's defence technology legacy.

It is estimated that around 80% of the South African National Defence Force's (SANDF) current equipment originates from the domestic defence sector, underlining its continued strength and global competitiveness.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lionel |first=Ekene |date=2017-11-28 |title=Here are some of South African Made weapons |url=https://www.military.africa/2017/11/here-are-some-of-south-african-made-weapons/ |access-date=2023-02-08 |website=Military Africa |language=en-US}}</ref>

== Gallery ==
<gallery mode="packed" heights="160">
File:A South African soldier with the 9th South African Infantry Battalion, 2013.jpg|A South African soldier with the [[9 South African Infantry Battalion|9th South African Infantry Battalion]].
File:South Africa Rooikat.jpg|[[Rooikat]] armoured reconnaissance vehicle.
File:SAS Isandlwana F146 V&A Waterfront 2.jpg|[[Valour-class frigate|Valour-class]] frigate [[SAS Isandlwana|Isandlwana (F146)]].
File:Badger-infanteriegevegsvoertuig, b, Waterkloof Lugmagbasis.jpg|[[Badger IFV|Badger]] infantry fighting vehicle.
File:SAAF-Gripen-001 (cropped).jpg|South African Air Force [[Saab JAS 39 Gripen|Saab Gripen]] over Cape Town.
File:Swartkops Airshow-27.jpg|[[Ratel IFV|Ratel]] infantry fighting vehicles during manoeuvres.
File:Oryx no. 1230.jpg|[[Atlas Oryx|Oryx]] helicopter cargo-slinging off the [[SAS Drakensberg]].
File:Denel G6-45 Ysterplaat Airshow 2006.jpg|[[G6 howitzer|G6 Rhino]] self-propelled howitzer.
File:SAAF C-130.jpg|[[Lockheed C-130 Hercules|C-130 Hercules]] conducting an [[airdrop]] demonstration.
File:U.S. Army Africa commander visits South Africa Bloemfontein.jpg|[[United States|U.S.]] and South African military leaders standing infront of an [[Olifant (tank)|Olifant]] tank.
File:Security simulation at Swartkops Air Force Base.jpg|[[BAE Systems Hawk|BAE Hawks]] flying over [[Air Force Base Swartkop|Swartkop Air Force Base]].
File:Swartkops Airshow-152.jpg|[[Denel Rooivalk|Rooivalk]] attack helicopter during an air show.
File:South African Soldiers.jpg|Paratroops of [[44 Parachute Regiment (South Africa)|44 Parachute Regiment]], of the [[South African Army]].
File:SAAF-Fast roping-001.jpg|Air Assault Infantry [[fast-roping]] from an Oryx helicopter.
File:SAS Charlotte Maxeke with HMS Portland MOD 45157758.jpg|The [[SAS Charlotte Maxeke|SAS Charlotte Maxeke (S102)]] submarine with [[HMS Portland (F79)]].
File:Female combat troops of South African Contingent in MONUSCO on robust foot and moblile patrols 06.jpg|Female combat troops of South African Contingent in [[MONUSCO]].
</gallery>

==2012 Defence Review==
{{main|South African Defence Review 2012}}

The South African Defence Review 2012 is a policy review process carried out by a panel of experts, chaired by retired politician and former Minister of Defence, [[Roelf Meyer]].

The review was commissioned by [[Lindiwe Sisulu]] the then [[Minister of Defence and Military Veterans]], in July 2011. The review was motivated by the need to correct the errors and shortcomings of the previous review. According to defence minister Lindiwe Sisulu, the old report was no longer relevant to South Africa's current situation.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sanews.gov.za/south-africa/draft-defence-review-report-released-0|title=Draft Defence Review report released|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141207194545/http://sanews.gov.za/south-africa/draft-defence-review-report-released-0|archive-date=7 December 2014|date=2012-12-12}}</ref>

==See also==
{{Portal|South Africa}}
* [[2019 renaming of South African National Defence Force reserve units]]
* [[List of South African military bases]]
* [[List of South African military chiefs]]
* [[Military history of South Africa]]
* [[South African military decorations]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

==Further reading==
* {{cite web |url=http://www.sadefencereview2012.org/index.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120728213112/http://www.sadefencereview2012.org/index.htm |url-status=usurped |archive-date=2012-07-28 |title=South African Defence Review 2012 |publisher=Defence Review Committee }}
* [https://www.defenceweb.co.za/sa-defence/sa-defence-sa-defence/landward-force-makes-up-over-half-of-sandf-strength/ SANDF strength numbers 2014/15]

==External links==
{{Commons category|Military of South Africa}}
* [http://www.dod.mil.za/  South African Department of Defence]
* [http://www.info.gov.za/gazette/acts/2002/a42-02.pdf Defence Act (Act 42 of 2002)]

{{SANDF}}
{{SA Army Units}}
{{SA Commandos}}
{{South Africa topics}}
{{Military of Africa}}

[[Category:Military of South Africa| ]]
[[Category:Military units and formations established in 1994]]